It’s no surprise why front load washing machines have become so popular. They are energy efficient, use less water, and overall easier to load. However, without proper cleaning and care, you’ll notice it start to smell bad. Here, we’ll go over how to clean a front load washer.

Your Guide on How to Clean a Front Load Washer

Regular maintenance is a must to avoid front load washer problems. Follow this guide to find out why your washer smells bad, how to clean it, and how to prevent bad odors.

Why Does My Washing Machine Smell Bad?

Front load washers are made to be more efficient than top load washers in nearly every way. The only issue is, you’re probably used to using the large amounts of detergent top load washing machines require.

Because front load washers use less water, they can’t rinse out the excess detergent and fabric softeners. Consequently, the extra soap residue builds up within your washer, creating a warm, moist environment that is a magnet for mold, mildew, and bacteria.

Now that you know why your washer smells bad, you’re probably itching to know how to clean a front load washer.

How to Clean Washing Machine Tub

The first step to eliminating front load washer mold is to clean the tub. Follow these six steps:

1. Sprinkle 1/3 cup of baking soda inside the tub.
2. Pour two cups of white distilled vinegar into the detergent tray.
3. Run a high temperature cycle.
4. If your washer smells like mildew, run another cycle using only two cups of bleach in the detergent tray.
5. Remove the detergent tray and clean it with an all-purpose cleaner.
6. Clean the exterior of you washer with an all-purpose cleaner.

How to Clean Mold in Front Load Washer Gasket

Next, you’ll need to know how to clean mold from front load washer gaskets. The gasket is the rubber seal that lines the opening of your washer tub.

It’s prone to retaining moisture, which means mold and mildew LOVE to reside there. Here’s how to clean the gasket:
1. Pull back on the rubber and remove any objects like coins, hair pins, or paper clips.
2. Remove dust, hair, and lint build up between the gasket folds.
3. Spray the gasket with warm, soapy water and wipe it down with a clean cloth.

How to Prevent Washer Odors

Now that your washing machine is clean, you’re in a good spot to keep it that way! You can prevent further mold and mildew problems with regular maintenance. Do this after each load of laundry:

1. Remove washed clothes immediately
2. Wipe down the inside of your washer door
3. Wipe out the folds of the rubber gasket until it’s dry
4. Leave the door open to allow the inside to dry
5. Air out the detergent tray

Lastly, make sure you’re using the correct detergent. Most front load washers require HE (high-efficiency) approved detergents. Only use about two teaspoons of liquid detergent, or one pod.

If you follow this guide on how to clean a front load washer and prevent odors, your machine should stay fresh. However, if you’re noticing performance issues, call for washer repair today.