Mold problem in front loading washing machines
I’m shopping for a washer and dryer, and decided I should get a front loader, because they are more energy and water efficient, and more gentle on clothing. However, when I did some research online, I found that many people are complaining about mold developing inside their machine. This problem appears to affect all brands…
I’m shopping for a washer and dryer, and decided I should get a front loader, because they are more energy and water efficient, and more gentle on clothing. However, when I did some research online, I found that many people are complaining about mold developing inside their machine. This problem appears to affect all brands of front loaders. I know someone who is getting rid of her front loader because the mold problem is very bad, and she decided to go back to a top loader. Costumer support didn’t know how to solve the problem. It seems that no one really knows why this is happening, and how to prevent it. Another person told me that they have had their machine for years, don’t have mold, and are very happy with it… Consumer Reports briefly mentions the problem, but they recommend to leave the door open after using the machine, to use HE soap in small amounts, and they say this should prevent the mold problem. But it seems that some people still get the mold depite all those precautions…
There have been multiple posts here that discussed washer and dryers, but not that particular issue. Any opinions or advice on this?
We’ve owned both the Whirlpool and Kenmore front loaders (I think they are actually the same machine, different label) and have had no serious mold problems. Like the above posters said, water tends to pool on the rubber seal, so you have to clean that every few weeks. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to let leave the door open every now and then to let it air out.
I pretty much swear by front loaders – less water, less detergent, cleaner clothes!
My only complaint is that I cannot find unscented HE detergent, so I continue to use small quantities of regular unscented detergent, which is fine so long as you don’t put too much in.
HE is High Effficiency- low suds for fron loaders. We made the mistake of putting the regular amount of regualar soap in our Bosch once. Suds everywhere, including downstairs…
The Bosch washer is totally amazine by the way- quiet, quick, and smart
sorry for being daft, but what’s HE soap?
sorry for being daft, but what’s HE soap?
I’ve had a Bosch Axxis front loader for over a year now and haven’t had any mold problems. I read about those issues before I bought the washer so I’ve been sure to keep the door open and sometimes wipe off the rubber seal. So far so good.
I’ve had a Kenmore front loader for over three years now and never had a mold problem. I leave the door open when it’s not in use and use the HE soap as well. Don’t know if there’s any correlation as per Consumer Reports. All in all, I like the machine and it uses less water than a top loader.
I have had two Malbers and both developed pretty nasty mold issues. I do leave the door open and I occasionally scrub out the rubber seal, but it does pile up…and kinda stinks too.
On the plus side, though, the Malber uses a lot less water and has been incredibly reliable.
I never even thought to look for mold. Have a wash in my front loader now…. guess I’ll be looking at it in the morning. There are so many big things to worry about that sometimes it’s best to just not know some of the smaller things.
I agreeg with K @ 2:58p I noticed water build up in the rubber seal. The quick fix is leaving the door open for a day, or you can just wipe it up with one of your just wash and dried towels.