Choosing the right dryer

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When buying a clothes dryer for your home cost, efficiency and reliability are important issues to consider. The initial cost can be offset by efficiency and reliability.

Location in the home is also important in order to keep a shorter vent run. It is advised that the vent run is no more than 25 feet. However, each 90 degree bend subtracts 7 feet from that allowed run. If a long run is necessary blowers can be installed to increase air flow.

Long dry times can be a symptom of a clogged lint screen. Keeping the lint screen clean from lint and residue can nearly double the life of a dryer by increasing efficiency. Soap, softener and dryer sheet residue can clog the screen to lessen air flow and efficiency. A good test for your lint screen is to pour a little water on it to check if it flows through. If soap does not work to remove heavy buildup a good way to a clean lint screen is to add a cap of Smelly Washer Cleaner to a little hot water and spray or dip the screen to clean.

Dryer drums can rust. Stainless steel drums in higher end dryers can dramatically lengthen the life of a washer. The high efficiency Bosch clothes dryer is one with a stainless drum and anti wrinkle technology.

Another common cause of long dry times (and multiple repair attempts) is a sensor for automatic drying cycles becoming coated with residue from softener or dryer sheets. This moisture sensor present on nearly all dryers on the inside front can be cleaned with vinegar or denatured alcohol. Do not use harsh chemicals because the coating is important to detect moisture in clothing for proper drying.

Proper maintenance of your dryer can provide years of trouble-free efficient operation.

What causes odor in my washing machine?

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When washing your clothes, you obviously expect them to come out clean and smelling fresh. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen because of washing machine mold. When it develops on the rubber gaskets inside your washer, it can cause washing machine smells and mold that spread to your clothing and throughout your home.

Too Much Detergent

One of the main causes of mold on the rubber gaskets of your machine is using too much detergent. This creates more suds than the machine can rinse away. As your machine runs through its cycles, these extra suds and dirty water splash on the walls and above the splash line of your machine. The grime that collects above the splash line isn’t rinsed during the rinse cycle, often reaching the interior of the rubber gaskets. This causes a contained, moist environment, which is ideal for the formation of mold.

Looking For Mold

You may first notice mold because of washing machine smells and spots or odors on your towels, clothing, sheets, and anything else you launder in your washer. To check for washing machine mold, open your washer and look for the rubber gaskets on the inside of the door. Run your hand along the rubber gaskets inside your washer. If the gasket feels slimy, mold is probably the cause of your washing machine smells. The rubber gaskets of your machine should never have a slimy feel.

Preventing Mold

Every time you finish using your machine, taking a few simple steps will work to prevent mold from forming on your rubber gaskets. First, wipe down the inside of your rubber gaskets with a towel after running a wash cycle. This will remove any soap and water that splashed on the gaskets. Mold can’t form without moisture, so by removing the soap and water, you can avoid mold and washing machine smells.

In addition to wiping down your rubber gaskets, wipe to dry the inside of your washtub after a wash cycle to prevent mold. You can also use a good washing machine cleaner to help prevent and remove mold. It’s simple to use a washing machine cleaner to sanitize the interior of your machine.

Using Washing Machine Cleaner

To clean the interior of your washer with washing machine cleaner, begin by setting your machine to the hottest water possible. When using a top load washer, select the clean, tub clean, or sanitize cycle. Add washing machine cleaner and allow the washtub to fill with hot water completely before stopping the cycle.

Add a few bucketfuls of extra hot water or some towels to the washtub so the water rises higher than the splash line. This will ensure the washing machine cleaner can do its job on the entire washtub, not just below the splash line. Let the washtub soak so the washing machine cleaner and hot water can eliminate the mold and dissolve any residue buildup. The longer you let the washtub soak, the better the results. You can even let it soak overnight.

After a good soak, turn your machine on and let it complete the rest of the wash cycle, through rinsing, draining, and spinning. Wipe down the inside of your machine with a clean towel to remove the moisture. That’s all there is to it.

Monitoring Your Machine

Keep an eye out for mold, but your best defense is usually your sense of smell. Take a sniff every time you open your washing machine door to make sure you don’t have any washing machine smells. In addition to smelling your machine, also check the items washed to ensure a fresh smell.

If you do discover washing machine smells, take action immediately. Mold can develop into a nasty problem that can spread to other areas of your home quickly. By using less detergent, hot water, dryer sheets instead of fabric softener, and washing machine cleaner in addition to taking the time to wipe down your machine after use, your washer and home are sure to stay mold free.

How to clean a garbage disposal

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To get rid of bad odor from a garbage disposal grind 1-2 gallons of ice while running hot water.  If odor persists, add 1 level cap or 1 envelope of Smelly Dishwasher & Disposal Cleaner to a pail of hot water and pour the mixture down the drain before retiring for the night.  In the morning grind another gallon of ice while running hot water.

Another cause of odor can be an improperly installed P or S trap under the sink

Does Smelly Washer Cleaner Work?

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Do an internet search yourself for Smelly Washer to prove washing machine odor is still a huge problem.

Over the past several months we’ve been contacting bloggers and asking them to review Smelly Washer Cleaner and our newest product Smelly Towel Cleaner.  We asked them to give their honest opinion on the products and if they’d like… to give away a bottle to a winner of their selection.   Here are a few Smelly Washer and Smelly Towel reviews.  You can do an internet search for “smelly washer review” or “smelly towel review” to read more.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmfxLDtCXJk

http://www.sweetsillysara.com/2012/12/smelly-washer-review.html

http://www.homegrownmommy.com/2009/12/14/review-smelly-washer/

http://voices.yahoo.com/cleaner-review-smelly-washer-smelly-towel-smelly-dishwasher-9449371.html

http://mimilovesall8.blogspot.com/2011/11/smelly-washer-review.html

http://www.babesandkidsreview.com/2009/12/smelly-towel-cleaner-review-giveaway/

http://callistasramblings.com/2010/05/review-smelly-washer-washing-machine/

http://livingmymoment.com/2010/05/smelly-towel-cleaner-review

http://lindseylu8.blogspot.com/2011/11/smelly-washer-cleaner-review-my-new.html

http://www.justthetwoofusanddeals.com/2011/09/smelly-washer-review-giveaway.html

http://www.jennsreviewblog.com/2013/03/smelly-washer-review.html

http://www.simplysoutherncouponers.com/2013/03/the-smelly-washer-smelly-washer-and-smelly-towel-cleaner-review.html

http://www.thebraggingmommy.com/2010/05/04/smelly-washer-towel-odor-remover-review-and-giveaway/

Can mold in my washing machine cause health problems?

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Mold can cause a host of health problems including asthma, increased susceptibility to flu and colds, and sinus infections. Because mold thrives in damp conditions, it can live in many places around your home such as the shower, under carpeting and wallpaper, in the basement and surprisingly even in your washing machine. Washer mildew can linger in your laundry room and transfer to your clothes, increasing your risk for mold-related health problems.

Asthma

People with asthma may have an increased sensitivity or allergy to mold that can trigger an asthma attack. Asthma is an inflammation of the airways that makes breathing difficult and sends more than 2 million people to the emergency room every year.

For many people, inhaling mold can trigger severe asthma attacks. By itself, inhaled mold spores can irritate the respiratory system, so people with asthma should take additional measures to eliminate mold in their home by reducing moisture and humidity.

Flu And Colds; Sinus Infections

Inhaled mold spores can wreak havoc on your respiratory system. Inflammation of the sinuses, irritated lungs, sore throat, runny nose and irritated eyes cause the body’s immune system to work overtime to help heal these areas. A weakened immune response and a weakened respiratory system can make you more susceptible to catching colds and the flu.

These same symptoms can increase your risk for chronic sinus infections, especially if you have prolonged exposure to mold, as with washer mildew and mold hidden under your carpeting.

To help prevent mold-related health problems, it may be necessary to have your home inspected for mold and thoroughly cleaned. Then take steps to reduce moisture and humidity to prevent mold from returning.

Washer Mildew

Places like the basement and shower carry a moldy stigma, but most people overlook one of mold’s favorite places to hide: the washing machine. The washing machine actually is an ideal place for mold to thrive if not properly maintained.

Since mold loves water, one of the main causes of washer mildew is residual water. As a rule of thumb, always leave the lid or door ajar to allow water to evaporate.

Detergent and fabric softener mistakes are often a common cause of washer mildew. Using too much detergent, especially in new high efficiency machines, causes excess suds that lead to mold. Read the manufacturer’s instructions and measure carefully. Likewise, liquid fabric softener leaves a residue behind that mold can grow in. Switch to dryer sheets instead.

Use A Washer Cleaner

To eliminate and prevent washer mildew, use a washer cleaner such as Smelly Washer up to twice a month. This washer cleaner uses all-natural ingredients to safely and effectively remove mold, odor and fungus from your washing machine.

You can also use Smelly Washer cleaner mixed with water in a spray bottle to remove mold in your tub and shower, and even your canvas boat and grill covers.

What’s Causing A Burning Smell In Your Washing Machine?

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If you notice a burning smell in your washing machine, the cause could be any number of things. Regardless, this is one smell you shouldn’t ignore. It’s important to quickly diagnose the problem and find the solution.

The  “Burning Belt” Smell

Many top loaders are “direct drive.” This means they do not use a belt. The motor is directly connected to the transmission. If you have a direct drive machine and your washer smells like it is burning, read on.

In Whirlpool and Kenmore models there is a rubber coupler between the motor and transmission that takes much abuse.  It’s very common for the fingers or the rubber itself on the coupler to break. A clicking noise with no spin or agitation along with a slight rubber smell are symptoms of this problem.   DIY repair is possible.

Older models and also new model HE front loading and top load washers may have a drive belt.

To work on a top load HE washer pull the empty unit away from the wall.  Drape a small rug or towel over the control to minimize damage to the wall and the panel.  Lean the unit against the wall and the bottom will be clearly visible.  Lie on the floor and note if there are rubber pieces or shavings under the washer.  The belt may be rubbing against a plastic guard attached to the motor.  The solution is actually quite simple:  If the belt is shredded or worn you need to replace it. You can call a repair person or, if your washer is under warranty, the manufacturer.  Or, if you or someone you know is handy, you can do it yourself!

Electrical Problems

If your washer smells and you have a direct drive machine, it may be the motor, transmission, or both. If these are shot on your washing machine, the result may be an electrical burning smell. Both are necessary to run your washing machine and can be costly to repair. The first thing to do if you notice an “electrical” smell in your washing machine and not a “rubber” burning smell, is to unplug the machine and call the manufacturer or a repairperson.

An electrical burning smell may also be caused by a water leak coming into contact with electrical wiring. Both are major concerns and should be addressed immediately. A water leak can cause structural damage in your home and can short out the electrical wiring in your washer and cause additional damage to the machine.

Other Causes

Another more likely cause of a burning smell in your washer is overloading. Adding too many clothes to your washing machine can stress the motor or transmission, causing them to overheat or malfunction and emit a burning smell. For top load washers, overloading can cause the agitator to freeze or malfunction, stressing the drive belt and causing friction, which could emit a burning rubber smell.

To prevent overloading, know the size of your washer. They are measured in cubic feet. In addition, know how many towels, pants, shirts, and other items you can safely load. When it doubt, do smaller loads. Not only will this prevent overstressing the machine, it will also ensure clothes are thoroughly cleaned and rinsed.

How To Remove Mildew Stains From Your Clothing

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If you’ve ever battled washing machine mold and been left with stinky, unsightly stains on your clothes, you know that getting rid of them can be a challenge. Here are a couple of safe and effective tips for removing clothing mildew.

First Things First

Before attempting to remove clothing mildew, you must eliminate the washing machine mold that’s causing the problem. However, it’s important to note here that you may have clothing mildew caused by leaving damp clothes lying around, not from your washer. Regardless, read on for some helpful tips.

To eliminate washing machine mold, use a washer cleaner such as Smelly Washer. It uses all-natural ingredients to safely and effectively eliminate and prevent washer mildew, fungus, and odors. Use Smelly Washer in the hottest or preset “clean” cycle of your washer to eliminate mildew. For tougher cases, allow the solution to soak for several hours before completing the cleaning cycle.

Once you have removed the washing machine mold, you can focus on removing clothing mildew.

Pre-Treating The Stains

If you have really bad mildew stains, you’ll actually see fuzzy or dark colored patches “growing” on your clothes. Mildew feeds off of organic matter, including fabric. So, in the right conditions (damp washer or laundry basket), your clothes literally become a smorgasbord for mildew.

If you have visible clothing mildew, take the items outside and use a bristle brush to remove the mildew. If possible, leave the clothes in the sun to help kill the mildew (hot, dry conditions are mildew’s nemesis).
Next, soak the clothing in a sink with a solution of warm water and Dawn dishwashing detergent. Use a toothbrush or other soft bristle brush to gently work the stains out. After soaking, rinse well and again allow the clothing to dry in the sun. If possible, you can also use a non-chlorine bleach solution to dab at the stains.

Put Your Washing Machine To Work

Most washing machines come with a preset “clean” cycle. If not, you can always use the “sanitary” or “whitest whites” cycle, which use the hottest water temperature possible. If the clothing with the mildew stain can be washed in hot water, this is the next step. If possible, non-chlorine bleach can also be added to the wash. For a more natural solution, baking soda or vinegar can be added to the wash.

Smelly Washer is not only useful for getting the mildew out of your washing machine. It can also be used in a regular load to help eliminate clothing mildew and odors. Simply add 1 tablespoon (or 1 capful) of Smelly Washer to your load of laundry (preferably with hot water), and agitate the clothes. Then stop the cycle and allow the clothes to soak in the solution for two hours. Complete the cycle as normal.

How To Extend The Life Of Your New Washing Machine

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A washing machine is an everyday household essential. Foods, clothes, and shelter are a human’s necessities. Clean clothes? Even better. But as you may have already learned through experience or read about through others’ woes, washing machines can be a finicky lot. So here are a few tips to help you extend the life of your new washing machine.

About Your New Washer

The good news is that the average lifespan of a new washer is anywhere from five to twelve years… wow, that’s a big disparity. So what makes a washer last five years and not twelve years? Well, the brand certainly makes a difference. Before you even buy a new washer, do your homework; read some reviews. It’s a fact that some manufacturers have gotten it right, and others haven’t.

It’s also important to (gasp!) read the manual that came with your new washing machine. This seems unimportant, especially as newer models are so user-friendly with their digital displays and touch pads, but the manufacturer provides important instructions for caring for your washer that shouldn’t be ignored.

Hard Water Is The Enemy

You’ve probably heard about hard water; especially from women about how their hair is frizzy or their skin is dry, or maybe you’ve had dishes come out of the dishwasher with streaks on them? These are all the result of hard water. When mineral deposits, such as magnesium and calcium, build up in your pipes, the result is hard water.

Hard water entering your washer can result in mineral deposits in the lines, which can eventually lead to your washer not working efficiently or malfunctioning altogether.

The best solution is to install a water softener or filter on your main water line. This will remove minerals from your water before they enter your house. Not only will it extend the life of your washer, it will also fix your hard water-related streaky dishes and dry skin problems.

Use A Washing Machine Cleaner

A common complaint among owners of new washing machines (especially front-loaders) is washer odor. Washer odor can be caused by a variety of things including residual water, detergent mistakes, and a build-up of lint and other material. Washer odor can transfer to your “clean” clothes and cause an embarrassing, and stinky, situation. But the real “ick” factor is what causes washer odor: mildew.

To dissuade mildew from ever dreaming of taking up residence in your washer, use a washing machine cleaner, such as Smelly Washer, regularly. A washing machine cleaner should be used with no clothes in the tub on the hottest or preset “clean” cycle, about twice a month. Smelly Washer is made of all-natural ingredients that safely and effectively eliminate and prevent mildew, fungus, and odor from your washing machine. Use a washing machine cleaner to maintain that fresh-out-of-the-box “new washer” smell for years to come.

Eliminate Pesky “Grease” Stains Caused By Your Washer

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Have you ever put your clothes in the washer perfectly clean (ok, dirty, but perfectly clean otherwise), and have them come out of the dryer with pesky “grease” stains? You have to ask yourself if you did something wearing those clothes that would have caused the stains. When you realize there’s no way you had, you turn your attention to your washer and/or dryer. Yes, one of them is to blame. Read on for
the cause of these pesky stains and how to eliminate the little rascals.

A Dirty Washer

So let’s say you or your family members work a job that involves getting grease on your clothes: say, a fast food restaurant or car mechanic. If you throw the grease-stained clothes in the washer with perfectly “clean” clothes, there is a very real possibility of cross-contamination.

But let’s say you cleverly wash the grease-stained clothes separately knowing that you may otherwise cross-contaminate your other clothes, and yet you still end up with grease stains on the clothes in the latter load. Now you may have a problem: a dirty washer.

Laundry detergent, fabric softener, various odors, and yes, even grease, can build up on the inside of your washing machine after every use. If this build-up isn’t properly cleaned, it can lead to a stinky washer. And a stinky washer can mean stinky clothes and a transfer of the “funk” that’s building up inside the washer onto your clothing – including grease.

Using a washer cleaner, such as Smelly Washer, twice a month removes odor, fungus, and mildew from your washer. This washer cleaner uses all-natural ingredients to safely and effectively eliminate the offending “hitchhikers” in your washing machine. Use a washer cleaner, like Smelly Washer, in your washer’s hottest or preset “clean” cycle with no clothes in the tub.

A Machine Malfunction

If you don’t work fast food and your washer is sparkling clean, considering an underlying problem. The problem may be the seal on the transmission failing. If this happens, grease from the transmission (necessary for it to function) will leak and float (recall from science class that oil is less dense that water) up into the washer. As the grease enters the tub, it stains your clothes.

The only solution for this is to call a repairperson or the manufacturer to have them replace the transmission or seal.

The Dryer May Actually Be To Blame

If your washer comes back with a clean bill of health and you’re still getting pesky grease stains, the culprit could be your dryer. Check the seals around the motor for grease leakage. If this isn’t it, it could be a residue from dryer sheets. Always place dryer sheets on top of laundry (not in between) and start the dryer immediately.

To remove grease stains, apply a grease-fighting dishwashing detergent, such as Dawn, to the stain and allow it to soak. Rinse and launder as usual.

Can Washer Mildew Be Harmful To Your Health?

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Let’s just answer this one right out of the gate. YES! Mold, mildew, and fungus can be harmful to your health. Mold is a growth of fungi that lives and feeds off an organic matter in moist conditions. Damp clothes left in your washer, residual water, lint, hair, and detergent suds can all lead to an infestation of washer mildew.

Washer mildew is not only a source of embarrassment due to its offensive odor, it can also be a source of illness for children and those who are sensitive.

Not only can washer mildew live in your washer, but it can also transfer to your “clean” clothes while they are being washed. This is why your towels and clothes may come out smelling worse than when they went in.
This “hitchhiker” mold stays on your clothes throughout the day and can transfer into your body through inhalation or skin contact. For children, it may be ingested orally if they chew on blankets or clothing.

Health Effects & Symptoms

The severity of a reaction to mold and mildew can vary from person to person and greatly depends on the type, amount, and duration of exposure. Children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems or known respiratory illnesses are the most susceptible.

Reactions to mildew can be as mild as sneezing, coughing, and itchy, watery eyes, which are often the same as a reaction to other various other allergens. Inhaled mildew can also cause an irritated throat and lungs. More severe reactions may mimic flu-like symptoms including headaches, fatigue, nausea, and an inability to concentrate caused by neurological problems.

Eliminate Washer Mildew

If you know you have a problem with mildew in your washing machine and are experiencing health problems, it’s time to take control. A washer cleaner, such as Smelly Washer, uses all natural, safe ingredients to effectively eliminate and prevent mildew, odor, and fungus in your washing machine.

A washer cleaner should be used in your washer with no clothes on the machine’s hottest or “clean” cycle. For more stubborn mildew, allow the solution to soak (up to overnight) before running the cycle. Smelly Washer can be used up to twice a month to inhibit the future growth of mildew.

After your washing machine is free of mildew, use Smelly Washer to remove the mildew from your clothes. Simply add 1 tablespoon of the washer cleaner to a load of laundry using hot water. Allow the load to soak for 2 hours, and then complete the cycle.

You can use Smelly Washer to eliminate and prevent mildew from growing in other places around your house as well. Mix with a gallon of hot water to pour down drains and disposals and mix with a spray bottle of hot water to remove mildew on shower walls, tubs, and canvas boat and grill covers.