Does Your Washing Machine Smell? Here’s What to Do About It
Nothing is worse than a foul-smelling washing machine. If your washing machine smells bad, do not despair - you are not the only one. This is a very common problem, and there are quite a few preventable reasons and solutions.
By understanding what can make your washing machine smell bad, you can avoid the issue in the future. Whether it’s smelly soap scum, mildewy wet clothes, or hidden clogs, you can take preventative measures to keep your washing machine from smelling bad.
Soap Scum Could Be The Culprit
Using eco-friendly detergents and cold water cycles aren’t as effective at killing molds, which can exacerbate the problem. Cleaning the rubber gasket in front-load doors and the detergent dispenser drawer with hot, soapy water can help eliminate smells.
You can also run an empty wash cycle on the hottest water setting with a cup of bleach or a cup of baking soda. If your machine still smells bad after cleaning, it may be time to call in the professionals for actual drain cleaning services.
Promptly Remove Wet Clothes from Washer
Sometimes, something as simple as wet clothes being left in the washing machine could be at fault. It can be difficult to time laundry perfectly, so wet clothes end up sitting in washing machines for a few hours. But if wet clothes are left inside the washing machine for too long, the wet fabric can begin to smell.
The damp clothes are crumpled together and have no way to dry, creating the perfect habitat for smelly mold and bacteria. In some cases, this will require a second wash, which adds up with your water bills. Additionally, that same mold and mildew can start to grow inside the actual machine, eventually requiring a full replacement.
Keep an Eye Out for Hidden Clogs
While this can be an effective method for drain removal, it can also be complex; especially if you don’t know where your drain line leads. A hidden clog can easily cause extensive damage to your plumbing system if not addressed quickly.
For a vast majority of homeowners, working with a professional plumbing company will be the better option. Not only will they be able to check the drain line for your machine, but also they can inspect the machine itself, ensuring that everything is working as it should.
Trust Your Local Plumber
Reeves Family Plumbing is a full-service plumbing company dedicated to meeting the needs of homeowners in Dallas, TX. Since their founding in 1960, they have maintained their commitment to meeting the unique needs of every customer. Contact them today to find out how you can restore the functionality to your washing machine.