Q&A for How to Clean a Front Load Washer

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  • Question
    How do I get my front load washer to stop smelling?
    Chris Willatt
    House Cleaning Professional
    Chris Willatt is the owner and founder of Alpine Maids, a cleaning agency in Denver, Colorado started in 2015. Alpine Maids has received Angie's List Super Service Award for three years in a row since 2016 and has been awarded Colorado's "Top Rated Local House Cleaning" Award in 2018.
    House Cleaning Professional
    Expert Answer
    The best thing you can do is preventative maintenance. Clean the filter monthly. After you use the washing machine, always leave its door a little bit open, so that you don't give the water time to sit in there, build up, and create that mildew. If it's too late for that, you can use vinegar: pour a good amount of vinegar down in there and run a cycle to hit the mildew. Then open it up, wipe out the lid area that you can access with a microfiber or rag, and then leave the door open to let it air out.
  • Question
    Fabric softener will not dispense into washer, what do I do?
    shikhar goliya
    Community Answer
    It could be that the washer is not leveled, dispenser is clogged, or the washer is getting low water pressure. If your washer is getting low water pressure, check the inlet hose screens for a blockage. To check the screens, turn the water off at the water valves. Remove the hot and cold water hoses from the back of the washing machine. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers or a suitable tool to remove the filters. Clean the filters and reinstall them, and then reattach the hoses.
  • Question
    Will a technician be able to remove the gasket without compromising the seal?
    Community Answer
    Yes - the seal is manufactured in such a way as to provide a serviceable component.
  • Question
    How do I find the filter for a front-load washer? Is it hard to get into?
    Community Answer
    The filter will be located in front of pump, which is underneath the drum. Usually 3 screws secure the front bottom cover. Block up your machine and you'll have easier access.
  • Question
    Is there a way to flush the tub in a front-load Samsung washer?
    Community Answer
    Remove the panel that is at the bottom corner on the front; there is a small drain hose in there. Take and twist the plug out and drain. There is a lot of water that will come out, so have a bucket ready.
  • Question
    How can I remove a bad odor from the drum of a front-loading washing machine?
    Community Answer
    Use a disinfectant wipe to wipe the drum, seal and door and let air dry. Do this in between wash days. Also, be sure to drain the tub if there is a drain tube; the water left in the bottom does and will build mold.
  • Question
    How can one eliminate clothes, towels, and all from feeling dusty following washing?
    Cory K
    Community Answer
    You may wish to try one or more fabric softener products, which also protect fabrics and garments. If that doesn’t work, consider using either 1) less; or, 2) a gentler or “free”/“clear” detergent.
  • Question
    Does the washer have to be unplugged in order to clean the filter on a front loading washing machine?
    Cory K
    Community Answer
    No! Have a tray ~1” deep handy, though: you’ll first need to let a few cups of water drain out of a tube next to the filter. This gets most of the water out, but leave that tray under it because the filter will still trickle some water once opened. Fear not, however–it’s a very simple process.
  • Question
    There is a lot dirty slime between the rubber and the drum. How do I fix that part of the washer?
    Cory K
    Community Answer
    Follow the instructions above regarding maintenance. You’ll need to use a bleach solution(s). It’s probably best for you to first hand-clean the “slime” (ideally 10% bleach solution, but any household cleaner will work), and then run a hot cycle with ~1-2 cups bleach, as above.
  • Question
    My front load washer, no matter what I do, still smells. How hard is it going to be to replace the gasket?
    Cory K
    Community Answer
    You may want to contact your manufacturer to troubleshoot before spending money. Plus, it could be under warranty, depending on your situation. Otherwise, they can also provide you "their" pricing for any parts. Third party repair companies may also provide a free estimate.
  • Question
    Where can I buy a gasket for an LG front load washing machine?
    Cory K
    Community Answer
    Call LG directly: all manufacturers sell their parts, or they’ll direct you to the vendor to be used. Alternatively, contact a local repair person–s/he may be cheaper than an OEM part.
  • Question
    What do I do if the gasket seems to be leaking after cleaning my front load washer?
    Cory K
    Community Answer
    Call a technician or your manufacturer. You may need a new part and/or repairs.
  • Question
    How do I clean the inside of the glass door on my washing machine?
    Cory K
    Community Answer
    You may use any standard cleaning solution, even if it’s branded for the kitchen or bathroom. However, if you need to remove mold or mildew, you should use a bleach solution. Dilute to approximately 10%-20% and scrub the mildew with a toothbrush. Wipe with a rag as you go. Once clean, wipe completely with warm water alone to remove all particles and to remove the bleach.
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