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Mouldy washing machine

(12 Posts)
LyndaW Wed 22-Jul-15 10:21:15

We've been down to visit with my son's family this weekend. We had a lovely time but...their washing machine was bit...whiffy. With two little ones they do use it loads but still. I didn't say anything of course. But next time I'm down should I sneak in a vinegar wash? Will that solve the problem do you think? None of ours have ever given off a smell like that.

MargaretX Wed 22-Jul-15 10:24:07

Vinegar might help but try a hot wash- as hot as it will do.

midgey Wed 22-Jul-15 10:56:15

Washing soda on the hottest possible wash on a regular basis was the recommendation I was given.

TriciaF Wed 22-Jul-15 11:14:10

Also leave the machine open when not in use.

rosesarered Wed 22-Jul-15 11:14:22

Ariel Active seems to keep whiffs at bay, a very hot wash now and again.

TriciaF Wed 22-Jul-15 11:16:26

ps and check there's not something partially blocking one of the outlet pipes. Ours has a little drawer near the bottom you can pull out and clean.

Teetime Wed 22-Jul-15 11:42:48

Several things to do, Clean the filters and soap drawer, a very hot wash with either a proprietary cleaner or my manufacturer recommends plain washing soda once a month. I also found that because I wash at 30 degrees with non bio detergents mine was beginning to smell. Switching to bio helped a lot and my skin hasn't been adversely affected. Always leave the door open when not in use.

GillT57 Wed 22-Jul-15 11:43:15

A lot of the problem can be due to the current fad for low temperature washing at 40 degrees or less. This leaves a fatty build up from the detergent.

LyndaW Wed 22-Jul-15 12:01:46

Thanks all. I'll give all of the above a go. I did have a look at the soap drawer and it was a bit slimey. Have to be subtle about it though. Need to wait till she goes out. One time I tidied the fridge and while she didn't say anything I definitely got the impression I'd crossed the line...

sally345 Wed 22-Jul-15 19:56:45

Lindaw I use a bit of thick bleach through my machine from time to time and that seems to work for me not sure if it does the machine any good though. thought the other advice very useful.smile

Coolgran65 Wed 22-Jul-15 21:34:38

My machine is built in behind a cupboard door so I can't leave the door open. But no whiffy smells even though washes are generally at 40. I must be very lucky.

Marelli Wed 22-Jul-15 21:53:38

Every so often, I put teatowels in at 90 degrees along with my usual biological liquid plus a capful of bleach. Seems to work fine.