How to banish washing machine odors with common household items

A washing machine is one of the most frequently used appliances in the home. It requires regular cleaning; otherwise, an unpleasant odor may start emanating from the inside. How do you deal with it? Discover a simple method.

Many homes experience an unpleasant smell from the washing machine. The most common cause is mold that develops in hard-to-reach places, such as the gasket, detergent drawer, or filter. If you notice black spots on any part of the washing machine or detect a musty smell from the drum, act immediately.

How to get rid of mold from the washing machine? You don't need any specialized agents or strong detergents. Use products that you already have at home.

Baking soda is a versatile product. We use it for cooking, laundry, and cleaning. It has whitening, disinfecting, and antifungal properties. You can buy it in any store for no more than $1.

How to use baking soda to clean the washing machine? It's very simple. Start by emptying the drum. Open the detergent drawer and pour in 1/2 cup of baking soda. In the compartment intended for fabric softener, pour 1/2 cup of vinegar, enhancing its effect. Close the drawer and set the wash to the highest possible temperature. After the wash, open the door to allow the drum to dry completely. Repeat this process once a month, and the bad smell will be just a memory.

Both baking soda and vinegar can be replaced with citric acid, which will get rid of unpleasant residue and limescale. For stubborn mold, you should use stronger agents, such as a dishwasher tablet and tea tree oil. The tablets are based on baking soda, citric acid, and strong chemical substances, while tea tree oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties.

How to remove mold from the washing machine? Throw two tablets into the empty drum. Open the detergent drawer, pour 30 drops of tea tree oil, and set the program to at least 140°F. There will be no trace of the residue, and a pleasant smell will emanate from inside.