After returning from a few days out of town, I needed to unpack, wash clothes and get back into the regular routine. What I found in the laundry room, however, was a none-too-nice smell coming from the washing machine. After a little internet research, I learned that some simple household items would remove the smell and get us back in clean, fresh clothes.
The three most recommended odor-removers are bleach, vinegar and lemon juice. Well, considering my desire to both save money and the environment whenever possible, I opted to try the vinegar.
Here is what you do:
- Run an empty laundry cycle by allowing your washing machine to fill with water and agitate without clothes or detergent.
- Add 1-3 cups (depending on who’s advice you believe – I used 2 cups and it worked wonderfully) of white, distilled vinegar to the water and allow it to run like normal. It will clean the washing machine’s pipes and hoses of soap scum and dirt, as well as clean the machine, reduce hard water deposits, and prevent mold.
I didn’t know this, but vinegar in the last rinse cycle with your clothes will also freshen, soften, and prevent static. Pretty amazing stuff!
Now back to folding…
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