A smelly washer leads to smelly laundry.
While the ideal washer smells of fresh, breezy laundry detergent and clean clothes, some machines take on a far less desirable scent over time. The causes and remedies for smelly washers universally apply to different makes and models, Maytag washers included. Though the company offers basic odor-fighting recommendations, Maytag offers a vast product lineup--consult your washer's instruction manual for care and maintenance pointers.
Causes
Chemical deposits, dirt and bacteria build up inside the drum of Maytag washing machines because of extended use. Commonly, a blackish grease, mold or sludge occurs in the drum. Washing with exclusively cold water causes this buildup; poor quality, bleach-free detergents compound the problem. Though better for the environment than traditional washers, high-efficiency machines--which use less water for loads--may have smelly mold, as less water for clothes cleaning means less water to flush out odorous residues. Undiluted fabric softener may also cause a sticky residue, which promotes buildup of stinky dirt, lint and debris.
Chemical Remedies
For front-loading washers, Maytag recommends cleaning the lower rubber gasket with chemical degreaser. Sodium carbonate--commonly known as soda crystals, soda ash or washing soda--can cut through odor-causing grease. Run an empty cycle on the hottest setting with a few soda crystals to degrease your machine. Remove black mold, which often collects along the door seal or soap drawer, with scouring powder and an old toothbrush. Store-bought mold remover also does the trick.
Vinegar Remedy
Distilled white vinegar, one of the most versatile natural home remedies, comes in handy for fighting smelly washers, Maytag-manufactured or not. Maytag recommends running a hot water cycle with a quart of white vinegar every month. This method works well for front-load washing machines, cutting through odor-causing chemical buildup and residue.
Prevention
According to Maytag, washers need a monthly maintenance cycle. Run your washer for a cycle without clothes once per month. Use a high-heat setting of about 90 degrees Fahrenheit for this wash. Fill the bleach compartment with liquid chlorine bleach and add a scoop of detergent to front-loaders; for top-loaders, use 1 cup of bleach each week. Grocers sell foaming tablets made just for monthly washer cleaning. Leave the machine's door open after each wash until the drum is completely dry. During hot or humid seasons, Maytag recommends keeping washer doors open when the machine is not in use.
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