If your washing machine isn’t functioning properly, it could lead to clothes with a musty odor at the end of a wash cycle. Identifying these issues early on is crucial, as running garments through a faulty machine may result in permanent discoloration or damage. To shed light on how to monitor your washing machine’s performance and ensure your clothes come out clean, we reached out to experts in the field.
Lauren Simonelli, a cleaning expert and co-founder of ThreeMain, as well as Sammy Wang, a cleaning expert at 9 Elements and a Tide Senior Scientist, shared their insights on this topic. One key indicator of a malfunctioning washing machine is the presence of a mildew scent or oily residue on freshly washed laundry. According to Simonelli, these signs suggest that the clothes were not effectively cleaned. Musty odors indicate mold growth, while residues can imply that the detergent did not rinse properly, depriving the garments of the soap’s full benefits.
Another aspect to consider is user error. If your laundry emerges from the wash smelling musty, stained, or with excess soap, it might not necessarily be the machine’s fault. Simonelli points out that user errors such as using too little or too much detergent, or overloading the machine, could be the root cause of these issues. If you’ve ruled out user errors, it may be time to inspect and clean your washing machine or, in extreme cases, consider replacing it.
Before rushing to replace your appliance, Simonelli recommends checking the washing machine for any signs of buildup, mold, or residue around the seal. If present, she suggests using a surface cleaner or a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and water to address the problem. Running a cycle with vinegar and hot water (without any clothes) can help clear out any blockages hindering the machine’s performance.
As washing machines typically operate effectively for about a decade with proper care, Simonelli advises keeping an ear out for unusual noises, leaks, or clothes that remain dirty or retain odors after washing. These signs could indicate that your washing machine is reaching the end of its lifespan. If you observe any of these symptoms alongside unsatisfactory laundry results, it might be time to consider purchasing a new machine.
While the washing machine plays a significant role in the laundry process, Sammy Wang emphasizes that other factors also influence how clean your clothes get. Elements like water hardness, temperature, and the type of detergent used all play a part in the outcome. Before deciding on a replacement, Wang suggests consulting with water and plumbing experts to address any underlying issues. Additionally, checking if your detergent is compatible with your machine by reading the label can also improve cleaning performance.
In conclusion, monitoring your washing machine for early signs of malfunction is essential to ensure your clothes are cleaned effectively. By staying attentive to these indicators and taking proactive steps to maintain your appliance, you can prolong its lifespan and keep your laundry fresh and clean.
Please correct the following spelling mistakes.
