Run Washing Machine Cleaning Cycle

Front-loading washers are especially prone to mold and mildew in the door gasket and drum — a monthly cleaning cycle prevents musty-smelling laundry. Top-loaders need it too, as detergent and fabric softener residue builds up over time. Use a washing machine cleaner tablet (Affresh, OxiClean, or similar) or 2 cups of white vinegar: place the tablet in the drum (not the dispenser), set the machine to its hottest setting and the 'Clean Washer' cycle if available, or a heavy-duty cycle with hot water. While the machine runs, wipe down the inside of the door glass, the door gasket (fold back all the flaps on front-loaders — this is where most mold hides), and the detergent dispenser drawer with a diluted bleach solution or white vinegar. After the cycle, leave the door and dispenser drawer open for several hours to dry — closing a wet machine promotes mold growth. For front-loaders, use only HE (high-efficiency) detergent and use less than the recommended amount — overdosing HE detergent is the number one cause of washer mold.