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Get Rid of That Mildew Smell from Your Top-Loading Washing Machine
If your top-loading washing machine has been smelling a bit musty lately, chances are you have some mildew lurking inside. This is a common problem that is caused by a buildup of moisture and detergent residue over time. The good news is that there are several things you can do to eliminate that mildew smell and keep your machine smelling fresh and clean.
First, start by wiping down the interior of your washing machine with a mixture of bleach and water. Be sure to wear gloves and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific machine. This will kill any mildew that is currently growing inside.
Next, run a cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar. This will help to loosen any remaining mildew and soap scum that may be lingering.
Finally, make sure to leave the lid or door of your washing machine open between washes to allow air to circulate and prevent moisture buildup.
By following these simple steps, you can get rid of that mildew smell from your top-loading washing machine and prevent it from coming back in the future.
Get Rid of That Mildew Smell From Your Top-Loading Washing Machine
Introduction
Have you noticed a musty or mildew smell coming from your top-loading washing machine? You’re not alone – this is a common problem that many people experience. Fortunately, there are several solutions to rid your washing machine of that unpleasant smell. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the causes of the mildew smell and ways to get rid of it for good.
Causes of the Mildew Smell
The mildew smell in your washing machine is likely caused by the growth of bacteria and mold inside the machine. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Leaving wet clothes in the machine for too long
- Not using enough detergent or using the wrong type of detergent
- Using cold water washes instead of hot water
- Using too much fabric softener
- Not leaving the door or lid of the machine open to let it air out
Solutions
Now that we know what causes the mildew smell, let’s talk about some solutions to get rid of it:
1. Clean the Machine
The first solution is to clean your washing machine regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. To do this, you can use a cleaning solution specifically designed for washing machines or make your own by mixing equal parts water and white vinegar. Run a hot water cycle with the cleaning solution or vinegar and let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing it out.
2. Use the Right Detergent
Using the right detergent is also important in preventing the mildew smell. Look for a detergent that is high-efficiency (HE) and specifically designed for top-loading washing machines. HE detergents are designed to be low-sudsing and can help prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
3. Use Hot Water Washes
Switching to hot water washes instead of cold water can also help prevent the mildew smell. Hot water helps kill bacteria and mold that can cause the smell. However, it’s important to note that not all clothes can be washed in hot water, so be sure to check the care label.
4. Use Less Fabric Softener
Fabric softener can contribute to the mildew smell, so try using less or eliminating it altogether. You can also try using dryer sheets instead of liquid fabric softener.
5. Leave the Door or Lid Open
Finally, leaving the door or lid of your washing machine open after each use can help it air out and prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
Conclusion
By following these solutions, you can rid your top-loading washing machine of that mildew smell for good. Remember to clean your machine regularly, use the right detergent and wash temperature, use less fabric softener, and leave the door or lid open. With these tips, you can enjoy fresh-smelling laundry without any unpleasant odors!
For more information, you can visit the Spruce.

What Causes Washing Machine Smells Like Mildew in Top Loaders?
Overview
If you are experiencing unpleasant smells coming out of your top-loading washing machine, chances are it could be caused by mildew. A musty smell in your laundry area can be a frustrating problem, but it can be resolved with a few simple steps. In this article, we will explore what causes washing machine smells like mildew in top loaders and how you can eliminate the odor.
Causes of Washing Machine Smells Like Mildew in Top Loaders
The most common reason for the mildew smell in your washing machine is due to moisture. When you use a top loader washing machine, water can sometimes get trapped in the gasket around the door or lid, causing mildew to grow. Another culprit is using too much detergent or fabric softener, which can leave a residue that promotes mildew growth.
How to Eliminate the Mildew Smell
The first step in eliminating washing machine smells like mildew in top loaders is to clean the gasket and drum thoroughly. You can use a solution of equal parts of water and vinegar or a specialized washing machine cleaner to get rid of any mildew or mold in the machine.
Another way to prevent mildew growth is to leave the washing machine door or lid open after each use. This allows the moisture to evaporate and prevents odors from building up. It’s also important to use the right amount of detergent and fabric softener according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Conclusion
Eliminating washing machine smells like mildew in top loaders requires consistent maintenance and cleaning. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can keep your washing machine smelling fresh and prevent mold and mildew growth. And, if you want to know more about cleaning your washing machine, you can visit the relevant Wikipedia page on washing machine.

FAQs: Get rid of that mildew smell from your top-loading washing machine
What causes mildew smell in top-loading washing machines?
Mildew smell is commonly caused by the buildup of moisture and bacteria in the washing machine drum. This can occur due to improper cleaning and maintenance of the machine.
How can I prevent mildew smell in my top-loading washing machine?
To prevent mildew smell in your top-loading washing machine, make sure to leave the lid or door open after each use to allow the moisture to evaporate. It is also important to clean your washing machine regularly and avoid overloading it with laundry.
How do I get rid of mildew smell in my top-loading washing machine?
To get rid of mildew smell in your top-loading washing machine, try running a hot water cycle with white vinegar. Add 2 cups of vinegar to the drum and run the machine on hot water cycle without any laundry. Alternatively, you can use baking soda instead of vinegar. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drum and run the machine on hot water cycle without any laundry.
How often should I clean my top-loading washing machine?
It is recommended to clean your top-loading washing machine every 6 months or more frequently if you notice a mildew smell or mold buildup. Regular cleaning can help prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in the machine.

Get Rid of Mildew Smell from Top-Loading Washing Machines:
- Clean the inside of your washing machine regularly with a combination of baking soda and vinegar.
- Leave the lid open after each wash to allow proper air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
- Remove wet clothes promptly and avoid leaving them in the machine for too long.
- Use a dehumidifier in your laundry room to keep excess moisture at bay.
- Consider using a washing machine cleaner designed to eliminate mildew and odor.





























