How can I clean my washing machine to get rid of musty odors?

VINEGAR

The first solution is to use vinegar, as it is the best ingredient to solve this washing machine problem. Fill the machine with water and add ½-1 cup of white vinegar to 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

You will just need 2 full cups of lemon juice for this method. 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.

SODA

Baking soda will instantly give you a clean and odorless washing machine. First, 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. Rub these areas with the brush to clean them 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 brand new 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 the machine 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.

Clean your gaskets, filters (check owner's manual for locations), in addition to the drum. Leave the door open when not in use, never leave wet clothes in it, and run white vinegar through your fabric softener dispenser. I use pods instead of liquids which minimizes build up.

I have a front loader and always make sure to leave the door wide open after I take out a load. That makes a huge difference - it allows the gasket to dry.

Hi Janis - This is a great step-by step article on how to clean your washing machine and get the stinky smells out - regardless of whether it's HE, top or front loading. Hope this helps and happy laundry day! Hugs, Holly

https://pinkfortitude.com/clean-your-washing-machine/

PS - We have a FREE eBook with recipes for all of my homemade and all-natural cleaners. You can download it here --> https://pinkfortitude.com/thank#GreenClean

Clean it out every time. Don't overload it with dirty washing especially Overalls!

Here is a step by step way to clean it from right here on Hometalk: https://www.hometalk.com/posts/clean/appliances/how-to-clean-your-washing-machine-using-vinegar-and-baking-soda-21697626