Prevent and Remove Mildew Odor in a High Efficiency or Front Load Washer

In the beginning, my new high efficiency or front load washer did a wonderful job. However, after a few months I could not believe the unpleasant mildew odor it left on my clothes. After inquiries at Home Depot and Lowe's Home Improvement Store, I learned that mildew odor is one of the most common complaints with a front load or high efficiency washer. I was relieved to also learn that there are simple steps that work to prevent and remove mildew odor in these expensive high efficiency or front load machines.

Simple steps to prevent and remove mildew odor in your washer, and leave clothes smelling their best.

Use only HE detergent.
Using HE detergent is extremely important to prevent and remove mildew odor in a high efficiency or front load washing machine. Regular laundry detergent can leave soapy residue behind and this residue encourages mildew growth and odor. The store that I purchased from has since recommended Tide HE for my front load washer / high efficiency machine.

Eliminate or limit the use of fabric softener in your high efficiency or front load washer.
I found that when I used fabric softener in my HE machine that it left a soured mildew odor. A representative from Home Depot confirmed that they owned my particular front load washer and had noticed this connection as well. Consider changing to dryer sheets to prevent or remove the residue liquid fabric softener can leave behind.

Take the time to dry the inside of your high efficiency / front load washer when finished.
I now take a quick moment and dry the inside of the tub and all crevices when I am through with my laundry for the day. Front load washers tend to retain small amounts of water in the tub and this can result in mildew and offensive odor. If you can safely do so, leave the door or lid to your high efficiency washer open. This will help prevent odor and ensure complete drying.

Clean your machine on a regular basis.
My particular high efficiency / front load washer has a "clean washer cycle". Cleaning your HE machine will help to remove residue that cause mildew odors. I use this cycle once a week with the recommended amount of bleach specified in my washer manual. There are also products that are designed to clean high efficiency or front load washers. I found Affresh to be a good product. Affresh is used to maintain your washer or correct an ongoing problem with mildew odor. If you prefer a green product, Smellywasher is all natural and guaranteed.

These steps were very helpful in completely removing the mildew odor in my front load washer. Used consistently, they may prevent mildew concerns before they start with a new high efficiency machine. Be sure to check your manual for further recommendations that will aid you in caring for your specific washer and keep clothes smelling fresh. If you would like more information on the products mentioned to prevent or remove mildew odor, please check the following websites.

Tide HE
http://www.tide.com/en-US/product/tide-he.jspx

Smellywasher.com
http://www.smellywasher.com/

Affresh Washer Cleaner
http://www.affresh.com/