Washing machine maintenance: How to prevent odors and bacteria

Experts warn that washing laundry exclusively at low temperatures, such as 30 or 40 degrees Celsius, can lead to unpleasant odors and hygiene issues. While eco-friendly programs save energy and reduce wear on clothing, these temperatures may not be sufficient to eliminate bacteria and mold. Over time, a layer known as biofilm can develop inside the machine, trapping grease, moisture, and detergent residues.

Liquid detergents and fabric softeners can exacerbate the problem, as their fatty components may not rinse away completely at low temperatures, providing a substrate for bacterial growth. To maintain hygiene, experts recommend running an empty cycle at 90 degrees Celsius once a month, either with baking soda or without detergent.

Additional maintenance steps include regularly cleaning the door's rubber seal to remove trapped water and debris, washing the detergent drawer to prevent slimy buildup, and cleaning the machine's filter. To prevent mold growth caused by trapped moisture, it is advised to leave the machine door and detergent drawer slightly open after each wash cycle.