Are you tired of the unpleasant smell coming from your Speed Queen washer? Nothing is more frustrating than doing laundry only to be greeted by a bad smell from your machine. Luckily, you no longer have to put up with this problem.
In this blog post, we’ll show you step-by-step how to eliminate those foul smells and keep your Speed washer smelling fresh and clean. From identifying the source of the smell to deep cleaning your machine, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s a quick overview of the points discussed in this article:
There are several reasons for the bad smell in a Speed Queen washer, including mold and mildew buildup, detergent and fabric softener residue, overuse of detergent, using the wrong type of detergent, and leaving wet clothes in the machine.
To prevent the smell, regularly cleaning the rubber gasket, agitator, detergent dispenser, drum, and filter is essential. Additionally, leaving the door or lid open after each use can help prevent moisture buildup and subsequent mold and mildew growth.
Using the recommended amount of detergent and a detergent specifically designed for your Speen Queen washer can also prevent nasty smells.
This blog post will help you know how to rid of the nasty smells coming from your Speed Queen washer. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and say goodbye to unwanted smells forever!
Why Does Your Speed Queen Washer Smell Bad?
Before we dive into the solution, let’s first understand why your Speed Queen washer may be emitting an unpleasant smell.
Certainly, here are a few common reasons:
1. Mold and Mildew Buildup
Mold and mildew can grow in areas of your washing machine that retain moisture, such as the rubber gasket around the door or the detergent dispenser. This buildup can create a musty smell.
2. Detergent and Fabric Softener Residue
Over time, the accumulation of detergent and fabric softener residue can create a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, leading to a bad smell. This can occur in the dispenser, on the drum, or in other parts of the machine.
3. Overuse of Detergent
Too much detergent can cause a buildup of soap scum in your machine, which can harbor bacteria and create an unpleasant smell. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended amount of detergent to use.
4. Using the Wrong Type of Detergent
Certain types of detergents, such as those with high levels of suds or those containing bleach, can cause damage to your machine and contribute to unpleasant smells. Make sure to use a detergent specifically designed for your Speed Queen washer.
5. Leaving Wet Clothes in the Machine
Leaving wet clothes in the machine for an extended period of time can create a damp environment that promotes the growth of bacteria and mold. It’s important to promptly remove your laundry after each wash cycle to prevent this from happening.
By understanding these common causes of bad odor in your Speed Queen washer, you can take the necessary steps to prevent them from occurring and keep your machine smelling fresh and clean.
How To Get Rid of Foul Smell From Speed Queen Washer
Now that you know the common causes of bad smell in your Speed Queen washer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get rid of foul smells from your speed Queen Washer.
Step #1: Clean the Rubber Gasket
For front-load Speed Queen washers, the rubber gasket around the door is a prime location for mold and mildew buildup. To clean it, mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spray the solution on the area.
Use a cloth or brush to scrub the area, and make sure to get into all the crevices. Then, rinse the area with water and dry it with a towel.
For top-load Speed Queen washers, the area around the lid and the rim of the tub can collect dirt, grime, and debris that can contribute to the bad smell; use the same process to clean it.
Step #2: Clean the Agitator
The agitator in your top-load Speed Queen washer can also collect dirt, grime, and other debris, which can cause the smell. To clean it, remove the agitator cap and use a cloth or brush to clean the inside of the agitator.
You can also use a mixture of warm water and vinegar to clean it.
Step #3: Clean the Detergent Dispenser
The detergent dispenser can harbor mold and mildew in both front and top-load Speed Queen washers. To clean it, remove the dispenser from the machine and soak it in a mixture of warm water and vinegar for about 10-15 minutes. Then, use a brush to scrub the dispenser, rinse it with water, and dry it with a towel.
Step #4: Clean the Drum
To clean the drum of your front load or top load Speed Queen washer, run a hot water cycle with two cups of vinegar. This will help to remove any built-up detergent and kill any bacteria or mold that may be present.
Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and helps to break down detergent and fabric softener buildup. You can also add a cup of baking soda to the cycle to help remove the bad smell more effectively.
Step #5: Clean the Filter
The filter in your Speed Queen washer can also contribute to a bad smell. To clean the filter, locate it near the bottom of the machine and remove it. Rinse the filter with warm water and use a brush to scrub away any debris or buildup.
Once the filter is clean, dry it thoroughly before replacing it in the machine. By following these steps, you can eliminate foul smell from your Speed Queen Washer, whether it’s a top load or front load model, and keep it smelling fresh and clean.
Tips To Avoid Unpleasant Smell in Your Speed Queen Washer
Cleaning your Speed Queen washer regularly is a key step in preventing unpleasant smells, but here are some additional tips to keep your machine smelling fresh and clean.
Leave the Door or Lid Open
After each use, leave the door or lid of your Speed Queen washer open for a few hours to allow the machine to dry out completely. This will prevent mold and mildew from building up and causing odor.
You can even keep the door or lid of your Speed Queen washer open when the machine is not in use to further promote air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
Use a Washing Machine Cleaner
Consider using a washing machine cleaner specifically designed to clean and remove odor from washing machines, such as Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner. Add one tablet to your Speed Queen washer’s drum and run a hot water cycle. This will help remove detergent residue buildup, kill bacteria, and eliminate the smell.
Repeat the process every 1-2 months for the best results.
Avoid Overloading the Machine
Overloading your machine can prevent water and detergent from circulating properly, leading to bacteria and mold buildup. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on load capacity and avoid overloading the machine.
Use High-Efficiency Detergent
Use high-efficiency detergent for your Speed Queen washer, as it produces fewer suds and reduces the risk of buildup and unpleasant smell.
By incorporating these additional tips into your washing routine, you can help ensure your Speed Queen washer stays fresh and odor-free.
Conclusion
If you’re dealing with the unpleasant smell from your Speed Queen washer, don’t worry — you can take several steps to tackle the problem. By following the tips outlined above, such as leaving the door or lid open after each use, using high-quality detergent, removing wet clothes promptly, and cleaning your machine regularly, you can prevent and eliminate the unpleasant smell from your Speed Queen washer.
If the smell persists, don’t hesitate to try some of the deep-cleaning methods we’ve discussed in the article. With a little bit of effort and know-how, you can say goodbye to those nasty smells forever.
