Cleaning Your Washing Machine
A washing machine that smells musty is extremely common in Ontario homes — and the smell transfers to laundry, defeating the purpose. The cause is almost always mould and bacteria growing in moisture that sits in the machine between uses, particularly in front-loaders where the door seal traps water and lint.
Front-Loader Washing Machines
Front-loaders are significantly more prone to odour and mould because the horizontal drum retains moisture around the rubber door gasket.
- Door seal: Pull back the rubber gasket folds and wipe with a cloth dampened with a diluted bleach solution or white vinegar. This is where the mould is — visible black specks. Do this monthly
- Detergent drawer: Remove completely, soak in warm water, scrub with a brush, rinse. Detergent residue accumulates and feeds bacteria
- Drum clean cycle: Run a hot cycle (60°C or higher) with a washing machine cleaner tablet (Affresh, available at Canadian Tire) or 2 cups of white vinegar. Empty drum only
- After every use: Wipe the door seal dry and leave the door ajar. This single habit prevents the vast majority of front-loader odour problems
Top-Loader Washing Machines
Top-loaders are less prone to mould but accumulate detergent and fabric softener residue over time.
- Fill the drum with hot water, add 4 cups of white vinegar, agitate briefly, let soak 1 hour, run a full cycle
- Run a second cycle with 1 cup of baking soda
- Wipe the drum interior, agitator, and lid seal
Do this quarterly. Leave the lid open between uses to air-dry the drum.