Washer and dryer problem

shadesofgreen

Just moved in with bf and we have two other roommates that live with us. I do a lot of the cleaning and now I?m thinking I need to clean the washer and dryer. It has a lot of dirt build up on them. I guess my question is I was always told you cant close the washer door after your done cause then it will grow mold, but the other roommates do it all the time. Is this true and you think its something I should say to them cause I think that?s the main reason it has all the dirt build up. Also I?m not sure what I should clean it with? As for the dryer the lint trap needs to be clean and I?m guessing I can rinse that off and let it dry before using it to clean that?

Magdala9

Mold should not be growing in any washer.  There are places with moisture problems that have mold issues independent of the washing machine.  Moisture issues are usually due to poor ventilation in a cellar.  Once a season, pour one gallon of white vinegar into a washing machine and run a hot wash cycle (no detergent or softener).  This will eliminate any potential problems.   If you see dirt on the washing machine, use a  bathroom cleaner for soap scum to scrub the interior of the washing machine.  Run a hot cycle (no detergent or softener) to clean out any residue from the cleaner.  Most bathroom cleaners use bleach and you do not want to unintentionally bleach your clothing.

The dryer lint trap should be emptied each time the dryer is used.  Once a year, remove the back of the dryer and vacuum the coils in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.  Lint build up can cause fires.    Over time, the lint will build up and can cause the dryer to be less efficient.  It will take longer to dry your clothes.   

Jkip0705

Some washers have a funky smell if you close the washer. I like to keep it open to air it out. Then it is always ready for  me to throw clothes in!

For my dryer, I saw a video on cleaning on the trap that I do on a regular basis. I always throw out the lint after each dry. Take the trap and run it under water. If there is water pooling in the trap then it needs to be cleaned. Especially if you use dryer sheets, a film will build up on the trap. Soak it in soapy water and gently clean with a toothbrush. Rinse it afterward. Water should flow freely through the trap.

I also vacuum behind my dyer on a regular basis and inside the trap itself. 

shadesofgreen

Thanks for the replys I know what I'll be doing on my day off

km_md

I just have a response to one thing that you said. I work at a furniture/appliance store, and we tell everyone with front loading machines to keep the door open (even just a crack) to let the moisture out. So I would definitely do that. Most machines also have a clean cycle and you can buy different products to use for them (Tide makes a great one).  Hope this helps!