How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell in Washing Machine

Mildew and odor in washing machine leading to odor from washed clothes is a common problem. Such problem of mildew smell usually occurs due moisture build-up in the tub. Unless you own an advanced self-cleaning machine, you need to do the task of cleaning it yourself. Ignorance in doing this task can worsen the smell. If you are wondering how to get rid of mildew smell in washing machine, then here are the solutions. Follow the ideas given in following paragraphs and eliminate that odor.

Eliminating Mildew Smell

White Vinegar
The first answer to the question is vinegar. Yes, it is the best ingredient to solve this washing machine problem. Fill the machine with water and add ½ - 1 cup of white vinegar in it. Now run it for a complete washing cycle without clothes. Let the water drain off and again run a cycle with just plain water.

Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another best way. You will just need 2 full cups of lemon juice. As mentioned above, run a washing cycle after filling the tub with hot water and lemon juice. Drain off and run one more cycle with warm water.

Baking Soda
Baking soda will instantly give you a clean and odorless washing machine. Firstly make a thick paste of baking soda using water. Now take an old toothbrush and apply this on the mold buildup and difficult to reach corners of the tub. Now rub these areas with the brush to clean it thoroughly. Next, take 2 cups of baking soda and add it to a tub full of hot water. Let it soak for 30 minutes. Now run a wash cycle. Once the solution drains off, run a cycle of warm water. The smell will vanish and the tub is sure to look like new one after trying this remedy.

Bleach
Using bleach is known to give you the best results in cleaning the washing machine and making it odor free. Fill the tub with warm water and add 1 - 2 cups of bleach. Leave it for 20 minutes and then run it for one washing cycle. Once the water drains off again run a cycle by simply filling the tub with water.

Before using any of these solutions you can firstly clean the tub with your hands. Spray some cleaner on paper towels and wipe the tub thoroughly. Use toothbrush or Use Q-tips to clean the corners and difficult to reach areas. Once you use above remedies make sure you run a washing cycle just using water before you put in the clothes. One important tip to avoid formation of mold is to keep the lid of washing machine open after you washing cycles are over and you remove the clothes. Make sure you regularly clean this home appliance to keep it in good condition and get maximum benefit from it.