Steps to tackle mold, mildew in your front-load washing machine

Are you one of the many who have a funky smell coming from your washing machine? Mold and mildew have been an issue with front-load washing machines for years.

“It smells like a damp basement,” said Deirdre Myles.

Like many, Myles is frustrated with her front-loader.

While manufacturers have made design changes to try to combat the mold issue, it hasn’t solved the problem.

Last spring, Consumer Reports tested a new front-loader from GE designed to eliminate excess moisture. Results showed that, while humidity levels inside the drum were lower, it’s not a guarantee mold or bacteria won’t grow.

Many consumers are going back to the basics with a new top-loader washing machine.

“Our tests are finding many high-efficiency top-loaders are actually performing nearly as well as many of our recommended front-loaders,” said Sara Morrow-Harcourt, Consumer Reports’ home editor.

Among the top performers is the LG WT7100CW for about $650. The matching electric LG dryer, model number DLE7100W, also performed well in tests. It’ll cost around $1,300 for the set.

If you don’t need a new washing machine right now, you can take steps to help prevent problem by running the tub clean feature regularly. If your washer doesn’t have that feature, run the washer on the hottest setting with a cup of bleach and keep the door open between loads so it can dry.

While it’s extra work, Consumer Reports recommends that, after the last load of the day, dry the inside of the door and the rubber gasket, carefully pulling it back to clean away residue. If there aren’t any young kids in your home, keep the washer door open between loads to let it dry.