Why Does Your Washing Machine Smell?
While washing machines are items of modern convenience, from time to time, homeowners notice a smell that comes from its drum. This can happen to you no matter what kind of washing machine you own or how old it is. Many homeowners encounter this negative smell during the lifetime of their washer.
While several reasons contribute to this occurrence, often, the reasons for washing machine smell are entirely preventable. Read on to discover what causes the odor and how you can prevent it.
Is Soap Scum to Blame?
When an abundance of scum and mildew build-up on the inside of your machine, a bad smell will be the result. To prevent this from happening, use soap that is appropriate for your machine. Check your machine manual to determine what type of detergents to use and avoid.
If you think soap scum is to blame, run your washing machine on hot with no clothes inside to rinse away scum and mildew build up. You may need to clean it manually, as well.
Leaving Wet Clothing Behind
Everyone does it from time to time. You put a load of laundry in the washing machine and go to bed and forget it the next morning. If you leave your freshly washed clothes for a few days, you might find a bad smell coming from your clothes. When wet clothes are left in a washing machine clumped together, they will begin to form mildew. This mildew creates a foul odor that builds up over time.
The only way to remedy this is by putting your clothes through the wash cycle. To prevent the build-up of foul odor in washed clothes, be sure to place them in the dryer or hang them to dry as soon as the wash cycle is complete.
Check for a Hidden Clog
This creates a foul smell, even though the inside of your washing machine appears clean. The only way to fix this smell is by cleaning out the clog. Locate the area where dirt, debris, and trapped hair have stopped the water flow and clean this out thoroughly.
When water flows regularly, the smell should not come back. To prevent this from occurring, remove any excess debris from dirty clothing. If needed, hose down soiled clothing outside before placing them in the washing machine.
Time Plumbing Gets the Job Done Right
Time Plumbing, Heating & Electric Inc. have been serving Denver, Colorado homeowners since 1983. They offer 24/7 services for your plumbing, cooling, heating, water heater, drain cleaning, and electrical needs. With five star reviews from past customers, you can be sure Time Plumbing will get the job done right.