Our clean laundry begins to smell about 2 weeks after cleaned?

Question

We had a front loader and assumed it was harboring mold. We got a new top loader and our clothes still smell shortly after washing. Where is the mold coming from and do I need to hire someone? Thank you. And yes, we use washing machine cleaner monthly

Ann|The Apple Street Cottage · Answer

I would look at where you are storing the clothes. Remove everything from the closet and check in the back for any signs of mold.

Cheryl A · Answer

I had a front load washer and learned early on you have to leave the door open to the washer when not in use, dry it out and clean and dry the rubber seal after each use so I ditched mine. I still have issues with my top loader now too. So I leave the washer open after each use , I look for mold and clean it out and I try to keep it dried out. Here are other ideas

https://www.bestwashlaundromat.com/clothes-have-an-odor-after-washing/#:~:text=When%20you%20do%20not%20use,the%20clothing%20in%20the%20wash.

https://www.realhomes.com/us/news/why-do-my-clothes-smell-after-washing-these-are-the-most-common-reasons

Cynthia H · Answer

Hi! Two things I would check: are they completely dry when put away? Where are they kept? I ask that, because even clean clothes absorb odors. Check the closets and drawers for musty odors. As for the drying, even a small amount of moisture will make musty smells. I don't think it's your washer if you're keeping it clean. How about your dryer? Have you cleaned the vent recently? Do you keep your lint filter clean. Are you using any scented products? Try checking those things, and to refresh the musty clothes, wash in hot water and rinse with vinegar. I use unscented products due to allergies, so I can actually smell how fresh the fabric is after washing, without any added scent, which may help you pinpoint problems. Two weeks, makes me think that either they are absorbing an odor or the fragrance stops masking an odor. Good luck!

Chloe Crabtree · Answer

I wonder if the laundry is absorbing the odor from your dryer or from wherever you are storing the laundry.

Pat · Answer

I have heard that HE washers (either front load or top load) must be kept open after washing to let them dry out and prevent mold from forming. I have had my front loader for three years and have never had a mold or odor problem because I always leave the door open as well as the detergent/softener/bleach dispenser. My machines are in the laundry room off the kitchen NOT in the basement, if that makes a difference. Good luck in finding a solution to your odor. Could it be the type of detergent you are using?

Mogie · Answer

Why Does My Front Load Washer Smell Bad?

https://www.thespruce.com/why-your-front-load-washer-smells-2147312

Dee · Answer

Try using a different HE cleaner for your washer. I have found that Arm and Hammer with Oxyclean keeps the machine clean and no odors on clothes. Also do not use downy, use white vinegar as a rinse.

Flipturn · Answer

Is it all items of clothing that smell, or only items made from a particular type of fabric content, for example, nylon, cotton, etc?

How and where are the items that smell being stored after being washed?

Is there adequate air flow inside the closets?

Does your top loading washer smell also, or just the clothing?

William · Answer

Pour about a cup of vinegar with the detergent. Vinegar kills mold spores. That may be your problem. You could have inadvertently transferred some mold spores to the top loader. You may need to do it several times. Front load washers need quite a bit of care and maintenance. The little water they use causes mold growth. Spend more time cleaning the machine than cleaning clothes.

Deb K · Answer

Hi Jennifer, hope this link helps you out,

https://www.simplemost.com/clean-laundry-smells-bad/#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20causes%20for,the%20fabrics%20you're%20washing.

Kathy Gunter Law · Answer

It sounds like you either are not getting the laundry fully dry or you have a humidity issue in your living space. You could start with damprid products or purchase a dehumidifier.

Betsy · Answer

Hi Jennifer: Check these sites, they may help:

https://commonsensehome.com/washing-machine-smells/

https://commonsensehome.com/musty-clothes-towels/

https://tidymom.net/remove-mildew-smell/

Good luck

Becky at Flipping the Flip · Answer

No you don’t, just run an empty load or two with vinegar or bleach, that should clear it up. Keep the door propped open to prevent this from happening again when not in use.

Annie · Answer

I would have your water tested. It may have sulfur as that will cause odder...

Our clean laundry begins to smell about 2 weeks after cleaned?

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Our clean laundry begins to smell about 2 weeks after cleaned?

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