answered question

answers (4)

jazz
0
Votes
BEST ANSWER  chosen by asker   |  jazz  |  January 05, 2009 03:51 AM
According to ehow.com:


Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:

* 1/2 cup of baking soda
* 2 cups white distilled vinegar

Step1
Decide on the source of the smell. Typically the cause is the machine itself, but occasionally the water being used in the washer can be the source of the problem. If the smell resembles rotten eggs, you may need a water filtration system installed. After you eliminate any other possibilities, you can begin the treatment process.
Step2
Create a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to 2 cups of white distilled vinegar.
Step3
Begin a wash cycle using the machine’s hottest setting. As the water rises, add the baking soda and vinegar mixture.
Step4
Let the washing machine complete a full cycle. If you notice any residue that has been loosened, use a cloth to wipe the surface clean.
Step5
Run a cold water cycle to complete the process. You should immediately notice that the smell has been neutralized.

Although they don't specify perfume, it would seem any odor that is not natural to a washing machine could be neutralized in this manner.

For the dryer, I would recommend using the solution and manually wiping it down, then drying it. However, there are these possibilities for washer and dryer:

You may run into another problem with artificial fragrances if you’re shopping for a new washer or dryer. That’s because many manufacturers put scented samples of detergent or fabric softener inside new machines at the factory. If you can’t get a company to ship an appliance without free samples, your best solution is to remove the offending products from the washer or dryer immediately. Then, run the washer (without clothes) several times with unscented borax, baking soda, or white vinegar until the odor dissipates. Likewise, run the empty dryer on its highest temperature setting until all the perfume odors are gone. If your utility room has a window, keep it open during the entire “decontamination” period.

Comment
easyeboy
0
Votes
easyeboy  |  January 02, 2009 08:14 AM
Try using white vinegar with a towel or rag in your washing machine. About a cup along with your regular detergent, it takes odors out of clothing and the washing machine eventually. It may take a few runs of the machine to get rid of the odor.
Comment
darth cont...
0
Votes
darth continent  |  January 02, 2009 08:55 AM
For the dryer, you could try running a cycle with some towels and maybe half a dozen Bounce dryer sheets with Febreze, that might help remove the odors.
Comment
imanxman
0
Votes
imanxman  |  January 02, 2009 01:28 PM
vinegar has the capacity to absorb odours but putting a vinegar vapour into both machines is problematic, a thourough rinsing with an (acetic acid) solution may be required maybe also several repetitions will be necessary bfore success is reached. It is however safe easy and inexpensive, it should be your first step.
Comment
140

ask any question

Top of Page
Buy Mahalo Dollars
WITH CREDIT CARD OR PAYPAL

Please log in to use this function.