Maytag
Biofilm and Mold Buildup
Washer-dryer combo has a persistent musty or moldy odor, especially from the washer drum.
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Possible Causes
Detergent and fabric softener residue on tub and door boot, infrequent hot washes, door kept closed between cycles, clogged drain trap retaining dirty water
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Use only cleaning products approved for washing machines. Do not mix bleach with other cleaners.
Step-by-step cleaning:
- 1. Run cleaning cycle: Use a washer cleaner tablet or 1 cup of liquid chlorine bleach in the detergent compartment and run the hottest, longest cycle with the drum empty.
- 2. Clean door boot: Wipe the rubber gasket thoroughly with a cloth and a solution of mild detergent or a 10:1 water/bleach mix. Pull back the folds to remove trapped lint and slime.
- 3. Clean dispenser: Remove the detergent drawer and wash it and the housing with hot water to remove buildup.
- 4. Drain pump filter: Clean the pump filter to remove trapped debris that can cause odors.
- 5. Prevent recurrence: Use HE detergent sparingly, run a hot wash periodically, and leave the door and dispenser drawer slightly open between uses to allow drying.
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Repair Difficulty
Very Easy
1/5
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