If you’ve noticed a musty, eggy, or unpleasant smell emanating from your washing machine, it could be a sign of mould, mildew, or trapped moisture. These conditions are perfect breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi, which can lead to unpleasant odours. Not only do these foul smells make your home smell bad, but they can also affect the scent of your laundry.
Residue from detergent, hair, soap scum and other debris can also contribute to a washing machine developing an unpleasant smell. Fortunately, there’s a straightforward way to prevent washing machine odours entirely-and it’s incredibly simple.
The quick solution was revealed after Gillian Ashworth posted on the ‘Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips’ group, asking, “How can you make your washing machine smell nice? Also, how do you get the black marks from the front of the rubber?”
The post garnered numerous responses, but the most frequent suggestion was to leave the door open after every wash, reports the Express.
Zara Jaye advised: “Leave the door open, it’s common sense.”
Sandra Davies responded: “You wouldn’t get the black marks if you leave the door open a little.”
Jo Hooper shared: “I always leave my washing machine door ajar slightly after each wash, and the tray; I use an old cloth to give the inside of the rubber a good wipe to ensure it’s not wet. I’ve had my washing machine for three years, and it has no mould inside the rubber; it’s as new as when I bought it! I think you can use white vinegar to rinse out the washing machine on a cycle!”
Jayne Morgan concurred, stating: “I do the same. Leave the door open and microwave to stop smells. My washing machine is 15 years old no black on rubber.”
Allowing the washing machine door to remain open after each wash promotes air circulation within the machine, preventing damp conditions from developing.
This ventilation aids in warding off bacteria and fungi growth that can lead to the development of unpleasant odours.
Additional suggestions from Mrs Hinch’s followers included performing a hot wash or running a cycle with just baking soda and white vinegar.