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How to Get Rid of Washing Machine Mold and Mildew Smell

Eliminate musty odors from your front-load or top-load washer with these proven cleaning methods.

Safety Warnings

  • Never mix bleach and vinegar - this creates toxic fumes
  • Run cycles without laundry to avoid damaging clothes

Tools Needed

White vinegarBaking sodaMicrofiber clothsOld toothbrushBleach (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Clean the Door Gasket (Front Load)

Pull back the rubber gasket around the door and wipe away any mold, mildew, or debris with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. Use an old toothbrush for stubborn areas.

The gasket folds often harbor the most mold - be thorough.
2

Clean the Detergent Dispenser

Remove the detergent dispenser drawer and soak in hot soapy water. Scrub away any buildup. Also clean the housing where the drawer sits - this area often collects mold.

Detergent residue feeds mold growth, so keeping this clean is essential.
3

Run a Hot Cleaning Cycle

Add 2 cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser and run the hottest, longest cycle with an empty washer. This kills mold and bacteria while removing residue.

Many washers have a dedicated "clean" or "sanitize" cycle - use it if available.
4

Run a Baking Soda Cycle

After the vinegar cycle, add 1/2 cup baking soda directly into the drum and run another hot cycle. This neutralizes odors and removes any remaining residue.

Don't run vinegar and baking soda together - they neutralize each other.
5

Wipe Down the Drum

After cleaning cycles, wipe down the entire interior of the drum with a dry microfiber cloth. Also wipe the door or lid inside and out.

Regular wiping after each use helps prevent mold return.
6

Clean the Drain Pump Filter

Front-load washers have a drain pump filter that should be cleaned regularly. Open the access panel (usually at bottom front), place towels down, and remove the filter to clean.

Water will come out - have towels and a shallow pan ready.
7

Establish Prevention Habits

After every wash: leave the door/lid open to air dry, wipe the gasket (front-load), remove wet clothes promptly, and use HE detergent in proper amounts.

Use only HE detergent in high-efficiency washers - regular detergent creates too many suds.

When to Call a Professional

  • Odor persists after thorough cleaning
  • You see mold inside the outer drum (visible only when dismantled)
  • Rubber gasket is deteriorated and needs replacement
  • Drain pump or hoses need replacement due to mold damage
Call +16173963696

Still Having Issues?

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