How to Deodorize a Washer

It would seem that just using your washing machine regularly would be enough to keep the inside clean and free of odors. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Over time, detergent residues build up, especially under the rim, causing a stale, musty smell. Fortunately, deodorizing your washer is easy -- it requires no chemicals, expensive cleaners or dismantling of the machine. Deodorize your washer twice a year to keep the odor-causing buildup at bay.

White vinegar
Baking soda
Bowl
Sponge
Pitcher
Cloth

Instructions

- 1
  Mix 1 part vinegar, 1 part baking soda, and 1 part hot tap water in a bowl. Saturate a sponge with the solution, and scrub the underside of the lid and under the rim of the tub -- any inner area that isn't under water during a regular wash cycle.
- 2
  Pour 2 quarts of white vinegar into the washer, and start a hot water cycle. When water stops filling the tub, open the lid to stop the cycle.
- 3
  Fill a pitcher with hot tap water. Pour the water into the washer so that it reaches -- but doesn't rise above -- the rim, refilling the pitcher as necessary.
- 4
  Close the lid, and allow the cycle resume for two minutes. Open the lid again, and let the machine sit for 45 minutes. Then close the lid, and allow the cycle to finish normally.
- 5
  Wipe away any baking soda and vinegar residue left on the inside of the washer with a damp cloth.

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