Introduction: Why Does Your Washing Machine Smell Like Mildew?
Have you ever opened your washing machine and been hit with a strong musty odor? If your washer smells like mildew, you’re not alone. Many homeowners in Oakville, Ontario experience this issue, especially with front-loading washing machines. The unpleasant smell not only affects your laundry but can also lead to mold buildup, which poses potential health risks.
A mildew smell in washing machines is a sign of bacteria and mold growth inside the drum, hoses, or detergent tray. This happens when moisture gets trapped, allowing mildew to thrive. If not addressed, the smell can linger and even transfer onto your freshly washed clothes. If you’re dealing with washing machine issues, you might also find our blog on Why Your Dryer Is Not Drying Clothes helpful.
In this guide, we’ll explore why does washing machine smell like mildew, what causes the odor, and how to get rid of mildew smell in washing machines effectively.
1. Understanding the Causes of Mildew Smell in Washing Machines
1.1. What Causes a Musty Odor in Washing Machines?
The moldy smell in your washing machine is usually caused by a combination of moisture, detergent residue, and poor ventilation.
One of the primary reasons is moisture buildup inside the machine. When the drum, rubber gasket, or hoses remain damp after each wash cycle, they create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. Unlike top-loading machines, front-load washers have airtight doors that trap moisture, making them more prone to this issue.
Another common cause is detergent and fabric softener residue. Using excessive detergent or softener leads to a sticky buildup inside the drum and pipes. Over time, this residue attracts bacteria, causing a musty smell. High-efficiency (HE) detergents are recommended because they produce fewer suds, reducing the chances of buildup.
Poor ventilation is another factor. If you frequently close the washer door after use, moisture has no way to escape, allowing mildew to develop. Keeping the washer door slightly open helps air circulate, preventing mold growth.
1.2. Common Signs Your Washer Has a Mildew Problem
If your washer smells musty even when it’s empty, this is a clear sign of mold growth. You may also notice black spots or residue inside the rubber gasket, detergent tray, or drum. Another sign is when your clothes washer smells like mildew, making even freshly washed laundry come out smelling unpleasant.
2. Why Does My Washer Smell Like Mildew Even After Cleaning?
2.1. Hidden Areas Where Mold and Mildew Grow
Even after cleaning, your washing machine might still smell like mildew if mold is hiding in hard-to-reach areas. The rubber door gasket in front-load washers is a common place for mildew to grow because it traps water and detergent residue. Hoses and drain pipes can also accumulate grime and bacteria over time, contributing to the odor. Additionally, the detergent dispenser and filter often hold water, which encourages mildew formation.
2.2. Mistakes Homeowners Make When Cleaning Their Washers
Many homeowners try to clean their mildew-smelling washers but don’t get rid of the problem entirely. One mistake is using too much detergent, which causes more residue buildup. Another mistake is not drying the washer properly after each use, allowing moisture to stay trapped inside. Ignoring the detergent drawer is also a mistake, as this area tends to collect excess detergent and water, leading to mildew growth.
3. Front Load vs. Top Load: Which One is More Prone to Mildew Odor?
Front-loading washing machines are more likely to develop a musty smell compared to top-load washers. This happens because front-loaders have a rubber gasket around the door, which traps moisture and detergent residue. The airtight seal prevents proper ventilation, allowing mildew to grow over time.
On the other hand, top-loading washers do not have a sealed door, so air circulates more freely, reducing the chances of mildew buildup. However, even top-load washers can start smelling musty if they are not cleaned regularly or if water stays stagnant in the drum.
4. How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell in Washing Machine (Step-by-Step Guide)
4.1. Cleaning Your Washer with Natural Remedies
One of the most effective ways to remove mildew smell from washing machines is by using white vinegar and baking soda. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that kills bacteria and mold, while baking soda neutralizes odors.
To clean your washer:
- Pour two cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser.
- Add one cup of baking soda directly into the drum.
- Run an empty cycle on the hottest water setting to kill mold and remove residue.
After the cycle finishes, wipe down the rubber gasket and drum with a cloth soaked in vinegar to remove any remaining mildew spots.
4.2. Using Commercial Washing Machine Cleaners
If the mildew smell persists, you may need a commercial washing machine cleaner. These cleaners contain ingredients designed to break down soap scum, bacteria, and mildew. Run a cleaning cycle using the cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions to eliminate lingering odors.
5. Preventing Musty Smells: Best Practices for Washer Maintenance
5.1. Daily and Weekly Maintenance Tips
To prevent mildew from returning, always leave the washer door open after each cycle. This allows moisture to evaporate, preventing mold growth. Additionally, wipe down the rubber seal and detergent dispenser weekly to remove residue and bacteria.
5.2. Long-Term Prevention Strategies
To avoid mildew buildup in the long run, always use HE detergent in appropriate amounts to reduce residue. Also, run a hot water cleaning cycle at least once a month to kill bacteria and keep your washer fresh.
6. Why Does My Laundry Smell Like Mildew Even After Washing?
If your clothes smell like mildew after washing, it means mildew spores are transferring from the washer onto your clothes. This happens when mold grows inside the drum or hoses, contaminating the water used in each wash.
To fix this issue, rewash your laundry using vinegar instead of detergent, which helps neutralize musty odors. Also, make sure to dry your clothes immediately after washing, as damp clothes left in the machine for too long can absorb the musty smell.
7. Signs of Mold in Your Washing Machine and When to Take Action
If you notice black or green mold spots on the rubber gasket or inside the drum, it’s a sign that mildew has been growing for some time. A persistent mildew smell, even after cleaning, indicates a deeper mold issue that may require professional intervention.
8. DIY vs. Professional Cleaning: When to Call a Handyman in Oakville
While minor mildew smells can be removed with DIY cleaning, severe cases may require professional help. If your washer still smells moldy after multiple cleanings, or if you see visible mold inside the machine, it’s time to call a handyman in Oakville for deep cleaning and maintenance. Similar to noticing when it’s time to call an electrician for an electrical issue, spotting mold in your washer may signal the need for expert cleaning. Learn more in our guide on Signs You Need to Call an Electrician.
9. How Handyman Oakville Ontario Can Help Fix Your Smelly Washer
At Handyman Oakville Ontario, we specialize in washing machine cleaning and maintenance. Our team can remove mildew, deep-clean internal parts, and ensure your washer runs efficiently. Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your appliance and keeps your laundry fresh.
10. Conclusion: Contact Handyman Oakville Ontario for Washer Cleaning & Repair
If your washing machine smells like mildew and DIY solutions haven’t worked, don’t wait! Handyman Oakville Ontario provides expert appliance cleaning and maintenance services in Oakville, Ontario.
📞 Call us today to schedule an appointment!
