What to Do with a Smelly Washer Tub

Cleanliness and foul odors do not go well together, which is why a smelly washer tub is so disturbing. It doesn’t exactly feel like your clothes are being cleaned if the machine they’re being washed in smells like mildew, or worse.

But if it’s full of soap all the time, and its job is to clean things, how is it possible for a washer tub to get dirty? Find out now, and learn how to clean the tub so your laundry room smells fresh once again.

Why Your Washer Smells & How to Clean It

As confusing as it may be, there’s a very good reason why your washing machine smells funky when you open the door. Things like mold, mildew, and bacteria have managed to find their way in, but how?

How Do Washer Tubs Get Dirty?

Today’s washing machines are well-designed and are capable of many things, but your clothes, blankets, and towels carry a lot of filth with them that can’t all be drained away.

Things like dirt, hair, soap scum, and body oil build up after repeated uses on gaskets, dispensers, and seals. Add to the fact that most laundry rooms are substantially more humid than other rooms in the house, and you have the ideal conditions for mildew to grow.

How to Clean a Smelly Washer Tub

You probably never thought you would have to clean your cleaning appliance, but luckily, the process is fast, easy, and can be done using common household products.

Start by running an empty load in your washer on the hottest setting with just two cups of white vinegar. Add a few drops of tea tree essential oils for an even fresher scent and repeat the process monthly to prevent future odors.

After the cycle has completed, use an old sponge or toothbrush with a white vinegar and water mixture to scrub away any left-on residue.

How to Clean a Door Boot

If you own a front-loading washer, chances are that the worst odors are coming from the door boot. It’s the big rubber circle that seals the door once it’s closed to prevent leaks.

The problem is that the underside of the door boot flaps is the perfect place for mold and mildew to grow. To remove what’s causing the smell, begin by mixing white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

Thoroughly spray the entire door boot including every crevice and let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes. Then, respray the boot again, and use a sponge to wipe away any leftover residue.

For more information on washer repair and maintenance, visit GFY Appliance Repair today!