Washing machine odors can attach themselves and linger on fabrics and clothes.
Odors left in the washing machine are most often caused by mildew and leave freshly washed clothes smelling musty. Eliminating washing machine odors is much easier than removing the lingering smells from clean clothing.
Causes of Odors
Excess moisture trapped in a top or front-loading washing machine causes mildew and musty odors. Leave the lid open on top-loading machines, and the door slightly open on front-loading machines, when the machine is not in use. Remove the bottom panel on the Kenmore washer and check the drain. A clogged drain will cause odors to seep into the machine and laundry. Avoid using liquid fabric softeners in Kenmore front-loading machines as this may contribute to unwanted odors lingering in the machine.
Self-Clean Cycle
Many newer Kenmore models, such as the HE3, are equipped with self-cleaning cycles designed to be used periodically. However, this may not always be effective in completely removing odors.
Using Bleach
Soak a large cotton cloth or towel in bleach and run the cloth through the washing machine's regular cycle. Remove the bleached-soaked cloth from the washer and run the washing machine again without clothes or detergent.
Using Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural stain and odor remover that is safe and effective for removing washing machine odors. Using a large amount of white vinegar will also help to clear the drain of odor-causing debris. Soak a towel in white-distilled vinegar and place it in the washing machine. Fill the detergent, bleach and fabric softener containers with vinegar and run the machine through a regular wash cycle.
Tags: kenmore, washing, machine, odor, washing machine, machine odors, front-loading machines, odors Using, washing machine, washing machine odors
