Mildew smell in Washing machine

[kenmore58]

First, let me apologize up front if this is in the wrong forum. Wasn't really sure where to put this question.

My brother called me last night. "My washer has a mildew smell. Maybe you and your appliance buddies can figure it out."

My immediate answer to the problem would be to run a cycle with hot water and bleach.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Ron

 

[kenmore58]

More info.

I forgot to tell you, he has a middle-of-the-line GE top loader, fairly new machine.

 

[strongenough78]

That will pretty much take care of the problem. And tell him to leave the lid open after he's done for the day to let it air out. That'll keep the smell from returning.

 

[ronhic]

Ron

If he uses 'cool' or cold cycles pretty much exclusively, liquid detergent and/or fabric conditioner, I suggest that he does the following....

 

- choose the highest water setting

- select the hottest wash

- a good powdered detergent - preferably one that doesn't suds too much

- double dose the detergent

- agitate 2-3 minutes

- stop and let soak for 20 min or so

- complete the cycle.....

 

This will loosen/remove any 'scrud' (that's the waxy grey film that forms from softener and detergent) in the outer tub....

 

Now, repeat with 2 cups of bleach but just let the cycle run......

 

Leave the lid open.....

 

....and get him to do a hot wash once a week if he isn't already!