Front-load washers are popular these days for their efficiency and compact size. However, the water-tight door seal that keeps the wash water contained can also trap moisture and residue inside the machine, leading to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors over time. While front-load washers require more regular cleaning than top-load models, it’s easy to keep your machine fresh and odor-free with some simple maintenance.
Why Do Front-Load Washers Develop Odors?
Front-load washers are designed differently than traditional top-load models. The drum sits horizontally, and a rubber gasket seals the front-opening door tightly shut during the wash cycle. This prevents water from leaking out, which is why front-load washers use much less water than top-load machines.
However, the tight seal also traps moisture inside the drum and door area after you finish using the machine. Over time, residue from dirt, sweat, and detergent can build up and lead to mold and mildew growth. Bacteria thrives in this damp environment, resulting in bad odors.
Cleaning a front-load washer regularly prevents this odor-causing buildup. It’s recommended to do a thorough cleaning at least once a month depending on your usage habits.
How to Clean a Front-Load Washer to Prevent Odors
Cleaning a front-load washer is a multi-step process that involves wiping down all interior surfaces, removing stuck-on residue, disinfecting, and removing lingering odors. Here are the steps:
Prepare the Machine
Start by removing any clothing or debris left in the washer drum. If there are any caked-on stains or residue, fill the drum about halfway with hot water and add 1-2 cups of white vinegar. Allow this vinegar solution to soak for an hour before draining the machine. The acidic vinegar will help break down residue.
Next, run the washer on its hottest cycle with no clothes. For a heavy duty cleaning, add 1 cup of bleach along with the detergent. The wash cycle will help clean the inside of the drum.
Wipe Down Interior Surfaces
Once the cycle finishes, open the door and allow the machine to air out for 30 minutes before wiping down the interior surfaces. Have ready:
- Old towels
- Non-abrasive sponge or soft brush
- Rubber gloves
- Distilled white vinegar
- Baking soda
- Unscented antibacterial soap
- Essential oils (optional)
Dip your cleaning cloth or brush in a solution of equal parts vinegar and hot water. Thoroughly wipe down the door gasket, drum, dispensers, door frame, and viewing window if your machine has one.
Look for any sticky residue or buildup of soap scum and scrub these areas clean. Take extra care to clean folds and crevices where moisture can collect.
Disinfect and Deodorize
For disinfecting and deodorizing, make a paste of baking soda and antibacterial soap. Spread the paste onto difficult areas using an old toothbrush.
You can also add a few drops of essential oils like tea tree or lemon for their antimicrobial and odor fighting abilities. Lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint all add a fresh scent.
Let the paste sit for 15-20 minutes before wiping clean with your vinegar cloth. The baking soda will help neutralize odors while the soap disinfects.
Run another hot rinse cycle empty to rinse away any remaining cleaning solution.
Remove Door Gasket and Clean Behind
The door gasket usually can be peeled away to access and clean behind it. Take care when removing the gasket – gently peel it back rather than pulling hard.
Use your vinegar cloth to thoroughly wipe down the space underneath the gasket, scrubbing away any buildup. Make sure the area is completely dry before snapping the gasket back in place.
Dry Out the Machine
Moisture left in the machine will allow odors to return quickly. After cleaning, prop the door open to allow airflow and drying. Place a fan nearby to help circulate air. Allow 2-3 hours of drying time before using the washer again.
Clean Detergent Dispensers
It’s easy to forget, but your detergent and fabric softener dispensers also need periodic cleaning. Residue left in the compartments can turn gummy and get moldy.
About once a month, remove the dispensers completely and give them a wash in warm, soapy water. Use an old toothbrush or gentle scrub brush to dislodge any stuck-on gunk.
Rinse and dry thoroughly before replacing the dispensers. Wipe down the dispenser openings as well.
Run Cleaning Cycles
Your front load washer likely has special tub cleaning cycles you should run monthly. Check your owner’s manual for how to activate these cycles.
Many machines have a “Clean Washer” setting that will heat the water hotter, run an extended wash, and add extra rinses to flush out any residue in the machine.
Run a cleaning cycle after you manually wash the machine to help remove any lingering dirt and odors. Monthly cleaning cycles keep the machine fresh between deep cleanings.
Leave Door Open When Not In Use
Make it a habit to prop the washer door open after each use to allow moisture to evaporate. Simply leaving the door ajar when the machine is not running makes a big difference in preventing odor buildup.
What Cleaning Products Should You Use?
Regular household products are very effective for cleaning and disinfecting your front load washer. Here are some recommended cleaning solutions:
- White vinegar – The acid in vinegar cuts through residue, soap scum, and mineral deposits. Undiluted vinegar can also disinfect and deodorize.
- Baking soda – Baking soda is mildly abrasive for scrubbing away soils. It also neutralizes odors naturally. Make a paste with water to scrub stubborn areas.
- Antibacterial soap – Any mild liquid hand or dish soap helps lift dirt while disinfecting surfaces. Look for fragrance-free.
- Hydrogen peroxide – The bubbling reaction of hydrogen peroxide can help lift stains and disinfect. Use 3% solution.
- Essential oils – Oils like lemon, eucalyptus, and tea tree add antibacterial and deodorizing properties.
- Affresh – This brand makes washer cleaning tablets that dissolve mineral buildup and residue as the machine runs.
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia that could damage surfaces or leave behind toxic residue. Standard household cleaning agents get the job done safely.
How Often Should You Clean Your Front Load Washer?
To prevent odors, a thorough cleaning is recommended every 30-90 days depending on your usage. Heavy use with multiple loads per week needs more frequent cleaning than lighter household use.
Here is a general guide on front load washer cleaning frequency:
- Every 30 days – Do a rinse cycle with vinegar or cleaning tablets. Wipe down exposed surfaces.
- Every 60 days – Thoroughly clean door gasket, drum, and dispensers. Run an empty “Clean Washer” cycle.
- Every 90 days – Remove door gasket and clean behind. Scrub hidden crevices. Use baking soda paste and disinfectant.
- Yearly – Schedule a deep cleaning with a thorough wipe down of all surfaces.
Always leave the door open between uses. Clean the dispensers and run cleaning cycles monthly. Promptly deal with any new odors that develop.
Troubleshooting Odors in Front Load Washers
If unpleasant scents return quickly after cleaning, the issue may require more troubleshooting. Here are some tips:
- Run empty vinegar cycles – Fill the drum with 2 cups vinegar and hot water. Run a normal cycle to clean inside.
- Change laundry detergent – Try switching to a gentle, low-suds, fragrance-free detergent formulated for front loaders. Reduce usage to match load size.
- Clean all filters – Clogged lint and water inlet filters can lead to odor buildup. Remove and clean monthly.
- Inspect door gasket – A torn or improperly sealed gasket allows moisture to be trapped inside. Replace damaged gaskets.
- Check drainage lines – Clogged hoses or standpipes prevent proper drainage. Disconnect hoses and inspect for obstructions or kinks.
- Deep clean with bleach – For persistent odors, fill drum with hot water and 2 cups liquid chlorine bleach. Allow to soak before running a normal cycle.
- Remove biofilm – If odor returns quickly, biofilm could be coating surfaces. Use a tub cleaning brush and cleaning tablets to remove hidden biofilm.
With regular maintenance cleaning and prompt troubleshooting at the first scent, you can keep your front load washer fresh for years to come. Consistent care prevents unpleasant odors lingering in your clean laundry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Front Load Washers
How do I clean the gasket on my front load washer?
- To clean the rubber door gasket, dip a cloth or brush in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and hot water. Gently scrub the folds and crevices of the gasket, removing any residue or buildup. After cleaning, leave the door open to allow the gasket to dry completely before using the machine again.
Should I leave the washer door open?
- Yes, leaving the door open when the machine is not in use is recommended. This allows air circulation to dry out any moisture, preventing odor buildup in the sealed drum. Make it a habit to prop the door open after you finish using the washer.
How do I run a cleaning cycle?
- Many front load washers have a “Clean Washer” cycle option on the control panel. Check your owner’s manual for how to activate this setting. The washer will run an extended wash cycle with hotter water to flush out soils and bacteria. Run a cleaning cycle monthly.
Can I use bleach to clean my front load washer?
- Yes, you can occasionally use chlorine bleach to deep clean the machine. Fill the empty drum with hot water and add 1-2 cups bleach. Allow to soak before running a wash cycle. The bleach will sanitize the drum, tub, and door. Do not use bleach every time as it can damage surfaces with repeated use.
What is the best way to dry out my washer after cleaning?
- After a thorough cleaning, prop the door all the way open and allow 2-3 hours of drying time. Place a fan in front of the washer to improve air circulation. Make sure all crevices and seals are completely dry before using the machine again. Drying prevents odors from returning quickly.
How do I remove mold and mildew?
- Mold and mildew in a front load washer can be removed with white vinegar or bleach. Use vinegar first and scrub away visible growth. For more stubborn mold, fill the drum with hot water and 2 cups bleach to soak before running a cycle. Be sure to wear gloves when cleaning mold.
Why does my washer still smell after cleaning?
- If smells return quickly after cleaning, problems like clogged drainage, torn door gasket, or biofilm buildup could be the culprit. Run several rinse cycles with bleach or vinegar, replace damaged gaskets, and use a tub cleaning brush with tablets to remove hidden biofilm residue.
What scent of essential oils helps eliminate odors?
- Great essential oils to add when cleaning for odor removal include lemon, eucalyptus, tea tree, peppermint, lavender, and thyme. Just a few drops added to your DIY cleaning paste or vinegar solution provides disinfecting properties and leaves a fresh scent.
The Takeaway on Preventing Odors in Front Load Washers
Regular cleaning is key for preventing unpleasant odors in your front load washer. Take time every 30-90 days to thoroughly clean all interior surfaces, the door gasket, and dispensers. Always leave the door open when not washing clothes. Promptly deal with any smells that develop between cleanings. With consistent maintenance and proper care, your front load washer will remain fresh and odor-free for many years.