Some people think that washing clothes in an automatic washing machine is the easiest thing to do, but this simple chore contains details that may affect the clothes and the washing machine negatively.

Here are 10 common mistakes people often make with their washing machine that can damage clothes, tips for keeping your washing machine from bad smells and how to tackle them.

Common mistakes that damage washing machine and clothes

  • Not sorting clothes by color

Washing clothes in mixed colors can easily transfer dye and damage your clothes. This happens when clothes rub together in the washer and chemicals seep from one color to another.

  • Use a lot of fabric softener

Excessive use of bleach or fabric softener can damage it, and some believe that using more products helps get rid of stains faster, but this is not true, as fabric softeners and bleaches are strong chemicals and their overuse can lead to damage Your clothes.

  • Not checking coin pockets

Keys, coins, and sharp objects can easily damage your clothes, and the best way to avoid this is to check the pockets before putting the clothes in the wash to prevent them from ripping.

  • Do not wash clothes that are decorated upside down

Embroidery can be easily damaged due to friction with other clothes, causing them to fall, and the best way to avoid this is to wash these types of clothes inside out to prevent them from tearing during the wash cycle.

Excessive use of bleach or fabric softener can damage clothes (Shutterstock)

  • Do not unbutton shirts before washing them

The front part of the shirt may be torn by the buttons being picked up during the wash cycle, and the best way is to unbutton the shirt before putting it in the washing machine.

  • Leave zippers open

Leaving the zipper open can damage your clothes, so it's always a good idea to close the zippers before putting them in the washer.

  • Not checking clothes labels before washing them

Washing instructions are different for each brand, so it is important to always check the clothing labels before putting them in the washing machine. The label will tell you how to treat the stain and what temperature to use.

  • Not checking the lint trap with the dryer

Leaving lint in the dryer can start a fire, lint is highly combustible, and dryer lint can clog the pores of your clothes over time and cause the colors to fade.

  • Close the washing machine door after the wash cycle

Front loading washing machines are notorious for having moisture and bacteria around the door, which can lead to mold and unpleasant odors. To maintain the washer, leave the door open after each wash cycle to allow the area to dry, then close it after a few hours.

  • Ignore cleaning the washing machine regularly

The washing machine cleans your clothes and sheets, but the washing machine itself also needs cleaning from time to time. Dirt from dirty laundry, detergent residue, water deposits, and mold may accumulate inside the washer over time. To clean it, use the self-cleaning cycle or run the empty hot water cycle with vinegar instead of detergent.

  • How to clean a smelly washing machine

Prepare cleaning tools

Basic tools:

  • sponge

  • whitening material

  • baking soda

  • White vinegar

Optional tools:

  • rubber gloves

  • old toothbrush

  • essential oil

corner cleaning

Use an old toothbrush or corner sponge to clean the inside of the corners well, then remove the material that has accumulated inside the diffuser tubes if you can reach it.

Roller cleaning

Bleach does not kill mold and be careful not to use bleach with other detergents, add 4 cups of bleach to a top loading washer or 2 cups in a front load washer, then run the wash cycle at the highest temperature and let the tub fill, pause the wash cycle once the bleach is mixed With water, leave for 30 minutes before completing the cycle and run a rinse cycle to remove all traces of bleach.

Baking soda and vinegar

  • After sterilizing the drum with bleach, this set acts as a secondary detergent and deodorizer for your washing machine.

  • Mix ½ cup of baking soda with ¼ cup of water and add it to the detergent container of your washing machine.

  • Pour 4 cups of white vinegar into a top loading washer or 2 cups in a front loading model, running a cycle on high heat.

If stubborn stains remain, wipe the inside of the drum with a sponge to remove any remaining vinegar smell, then run a rinse cycle. Finally, you can use an essential oil on the sealer as a disinfectant and deodorizer.

The cause of unpleasant odors in the washing machine:

Despite their efficiency, front-loading washing machines are more prone to odor and mold over time if not cleaned properly, the design of front-loading washing machines causes a build-up of soap residue and mold growth, and the moist heat of your washing machine is a breeding ground for mold, the same effect happens to the part The rubber seal on the door prevents water from seeping in, adding another place for bad odors to accumulate.

Finally, for prevention, always keep the washing machine door open after every wash to allow excess moisture to evaporate and prevent the growth of mildew.