Front Load Washer Problems: How to Get rid of Mold

Front loader washer problems have for some time created concern and frustration. This is particularly true of machines that are older models. Because of the collection of water under the rubber gaskets or seals in these types of machines, many owners of front loaders have reported moldy smells emanating from their machines. This has also been true with clothes washed in these machines. But in addition to the unpleasant smell of mold or mildew, there is also a health concern. It is widely known that mold can cause health problems. If you have experienced these problems with your front loading machine and are feeling frustrated as to what to do about these odors, the following tips will be of help to you.

Tip #1 – Check for Mold

If you have smelled a musty odor emitting from your washer or from clothes that have been washed in your washing machine, you should examine your washing machine's seal or gasket to see if mold has grown behind it because of moisture or the collection of water behind the gasket.

Tip #2 – Clean the Gasket

With a clean cloth soaked in a solution of water and chlorine bleach, clean off the gasket as well as the area surrounding it. Once the gasket it is thoroughly cleaned, rinse it with clean water.

Tip #1 – Leave the Door Ajar

Once the gasket or seal has been thoroughly cleaned, use the following procedure to inhibit future mold growth. After finishing each batch of clothes in your washing machine, leave its door ajar for at least an hour. If your laundry room air is unusually humid, allow more time for it to dry. This will not only allow moist, trapped air in your washing machine to escape and be replaced by fresh air, but it will also allow water that collects under your machine's seal or gasket to evaporate.

Tip #2 – Use Cold Water

Another preventative action you can take is to rinse your laundry with cold water, after the wash cycle, rather than rinsing with hot water. Bacteria and mold thrive in warm temperatures, and using cold water for the rinse cycle will inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold.

Tip #3 – Wipe the Gasket Out

To further inhibit mold growth, wipe the gasket area with a sponge that has been soaked in white vinegar or liquid bleach. This will kill bacteria that might have grown in the moist environment.

Tip #4 – Washed Clothes that Smells of Mildew

If you have towels or other laundry that has picked up the smell of mildew or mold, wash this load a second time, adding  a half cup of bleach or vinegar will help dilute the mold odor. Then, rinse in cold water.

By taking these recommended actions you will reduce, or entirely eliminate, the unpleasant odors and health risk of mold and mildew in your washing machine or in laundry that has been washed in it.