Using vinegar in your front-loading high-efficiency washer can help eliminate odors from clothes. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively:
Materials you'll need:
- Distilled white vinegar
- Mild detergent (optional)
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- Cleaning brush (soft-bristled)
- Old toothbrush (optional)
Step-by-step process:
Empty the Washer: Make sure your washer is empty, and there are no clothes or laundry items inside.
Inspect the Washer: Check the rubber gasket or seal around the door of the washer. This area can trap moisture and develop mold or mildew, leading to odors. If you spot any visible mold or debris, use a microfiber cloth or sponge to wipe it away.
Prepare the Vinegar: Measure about 1 cup (240ml) of distilled white vinegar. This is enough for a standard-size front-loading washer. You can adjust the amount based on your machine's size, but one cup is generally sufficient.
Add Vinegar to the Detergent Dispenser: Open the detergent dispenser drawer and pour the vinegar into the main detergent compartment. If your machine has a separate compartment for fabric softener, you can pour some vinegar there as well.
Run a Hot Water Cycle: Set your washer to the hottest water temperature available. The hot water will help to loosen and dissolve any residues or build-up in the machine. Run a complete wash cycle without any clothes, using only the vinegar.
Pause the Washer (Optional): If your washer has a pause function, you can pause the cycle after the water has filled the drum. Let the vinegar and water mixture sit for about 30 minutes to an hour. During this time, the vinegar will work to break down any stubborn odors or deposits.
Resume and Complete the Cycle: After the waiting period, resume the wash cycle and let it complete as usual.
Inspect and Clean the Washer Exterior: While the washer is running, you can take this time to clean the exterior with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water. Wipe down the control panel, buttons, and any other accessible surfaces.
Run a Rinse Cycle: Once the wash cycle with vinegar is complete, you can run an additional rinse cycle with plain water. This will help remove any lingering vinegar smell and ensure all residues are flushed away.
Keep the Washer Door Open: After each use, it's essential to leave the washer door slightly ajar to allow air to circulate inside the drum and prevent mold or mildew growth.
By following these steps regularly, you can help eliminate odors from your front-loading high-efficiency washer and keep your clothes smelling fresh. It's a good practice to perform this cleaning routine at least once a month, especially if you frequently wash at low temperatures or use a lot of cold-water cycles.