Home Garden

How to Fix Your Smelly Top Load Washing Machine

Washing machines, over time and with frequent use, develop unpleasant odors that if left untreated, transfer to your laundry, even after it washing with soap. The most culprit is mildew, or molds and fungi that grow in the moist, dark areas of your home. To prevent future mildewing after cleaning, wipe away excess moisture from the inside of your top-loading machine with a clean washcloth, and leave the door open after use to allow it to dry out.

Things You'll Need

  • Vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Measuring cup
  • Washcloth
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn on the washing machine and select the hot water setting.

    • 2

      Allow the machine to fill with hot water, then open the door to pause the cycle.

    • 3

      Add two cups of vinegar and two cups of baking soda to the water.

    • 4

      Close door and allow the cycle to finish.

    • 5

      Wipe down machine after the cycle is complete. Be sure and scoop out any hair or debris trapped in the bottom of the machine, around the agitator, or in the rubber seal on your machine's door. Leave the door open until the next use.