How to Keep Your Washing Machine Smelling Fresh! {4 Easy Tips}

Got a smelly washing machine? Well, I’ve got the fix! Keep the odors away with these tricks for How to Keep Your Washing Machine Smelling Fresh!

There’s nothing worse than a smelly washing machine. That kind of defeats the purpose, right? 😉 Well… today is the day you learn How to Keep Your Washing Machine Smelling Fresh!

These easy tips and tricks to fix a smelly washing machine, and prevent that stank from every starting really are so easy!

Trust me… these simple little tricks work like a charm! So are you ready to freshen up your washing machines? Here’s what you need to do…

How to Keep Your Washing Machine Smelling Fresh

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#1: Run a Hot Bleach Cycle Once a Month

The first thing you’ll want to get into the habit of doing is running a monthly bleach-only cycle… no clothes, just bleach. Bleach can help kill mold, mildew and bacteria inside of your machine that may be causing the stench.

So once per month, simply run an empty cycle on the HOTTEST water setting with Bleach only. It’s such an easy way to deep clean and freshen up the inside of your machine!

#2: Add Vinegar to Every Load!

Vinegar is another great way to freshen up your machine and your laundry at the same time! Vinegar is great at dissolving soap scum inside of your machine, too! Just remember to NEVER use vinegar and bleach together.

When running non-bleach loads, you can either add straight vinegar to your fabric softener section of the laundry detergent dispenser OR use this DIY fabric softener recipe to keep the odors away!

Homemade Fabric Softener with Vinegar

#3: Keep the Door or Lid Open Between Cycles

Another reason you washing machine may be stinky is simply because… it never is able to dry out properly! Damp things just have a way of getting smelly!

So, make sure to do everything you can to dry out your machine when it’s not in use. For example…

If using a Top Loader, keep the lid up between cycles so it can air out completely.
If using a Front Loader, keep the door open between cycles so it can air out completely.

#4: Wipe Off the Door & Seals After Every Use

For Front Loaders, you’ll also want to make sure the inside of the door and the seal are completely dry between cycles. Water and soap bubbles can easily collect around the rubber seals, and if it’s not dried out, it can really start to stink!

Simply pull back the seal and use a dry rag to wipe it all out after you’re done washing. Then wipe the inside of the door off as well.

Just remember… after you clean your machine with a monthly bleach cycle, and maintain it with vinegar in your loads… the other part of keeping your washing machine smelling great is all about wiping it down and airing it out. Clean and dry!

So are you ready for even more DIY Homemade Cleaners inspiration?

Here are even more creative ideas I know you’re going to love…

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