
Leaving or closing the lid on a top-loading washing machine might not be a major concern, but with a front-loading machine, it's a significant issue.
1. Major Mistake: Closing the Washing Machine Door Tightly After Washing
Leaving or closing the lid on a top-loading washing machine might not be a big deal, but with a front-loading machine, it's a substantial issue.
If you're transitioning from using a top-loading washing machine to a front-loading one, there's a new habit you should learn to adopt—always leave the door of the front-loading washer open when not in use.
According to Lifesavvy, top-loading washing machines don't have a cover, and water is less likely to splash out due to their design. However, water vapor can still escape easily from the top-loading drum. Therefore, the humidity inside the washing chamber is never sufficient to cause mold issues. Leaving or closing the lid on a top-loading washing machine is not a significant problem.
However, front-loading washers with a front cover and robust rubber lining provide solid protection. The rubber lining is crucial to prevent water spillage from the washing chamber.

Yet, this advantage becomes a drawback due to the sealed design of this rubber lining. The environment in front-load washers, already enclosed, becomes even more airtight, hindering air circulation. This creates an ideal environment for mold growth, posing a health risk. Additionally, clothes may develop a musty odor due to mold inside the washing drum.
Many individuals have encountered mold issues in their washing machines. In fact, though not a significant problem, over the years, many customers have filed complaints against manufacturers regarding washing machines promoting mold growth on clothes. However, the solution to such problems is surprisingly simple: always leave the front-load washing machine door open when not in use.
Yes, that's because opening the washing machine door helps facilitate conditioned air circulation within the drum, eliminating the damp moldy conditions. Some homes may have limited space, making it slightly challenging to leave the washing machine door wide open.
However, you can easily address this issue by partially opening the door to allow sufficient air circulation. In general, ensuring proper air ventilation inside the washing machine is crucial.

Guide to Properly Using a Front-Load Washing Machine:
- Use specialized laundry detergent for washing machines: Not every detergent is suitable for front-load washers. Regular cleaning agents may produce excessive soap suds, leading to a film buildup inside the washing drum and pipes over time. This provides an opportunity for mold to thrive, potentially causing harm to the machinery or electronic circuit boards.
- Choose the appropriate spin speed: Selecting the right spin speed for the amount of clothes will contribute to a smoother and more durable machine operation.
- Remove clothes immediately after washing: Allowing wet clothes to sit in the machine for an extended period creates an ideal environment for mold and unpleasant odors to develop.

- Regularly clean the rubber gasket of the washing machine: Wipe the rubber gasket of the washing machine with a solution of water and vinegar (in a 1:1 ratio) to minimize mold, odors, or dirt buildup.
- Monthly machine maintenance: Conduct regular monthly maintenance by pouring a small amount of vinegar, instead of laundry detergent, into the detergent compartment. Add a cup of baking soda directly into the washing drum; this helps neutralize the pH and aids in cleaning the washing drum. Let the machine run for a cleaning cycle.
Source: eva.vn