This is a non Zayden post :) But for other moms out there who read this, I am giving a PSA because I do not want this to happen to them. We have a 2 year old KitchenAid stainless washer that looks like this
This one is whirlpool but they are all manufactured by the same companies, different names. Anyways, the rubber gasket inside developed mold and mildew. It didn't bother me at first, but then it started becoming a bigger problem and when I would accidentally leave a wash in there for too long, it would smell mildewy. I have a toddler, so this is a safety concern. He isn't allergic to mold, but I don't want that in something that is supposed to remain clean and get our clothes clean!!
So I googled the problem and apparently it is prominent with these types of washers. I am pretty good at maintenance, I looked online and their manual on what to do. I ran sanitary cycles and a vinegar cycle. I also would wipe it down after my washloads, open the door, and turn on the fan in the laundry room. But nope, not enough. I also made sure it wasn't our water type, and its not. I think the companies know this is a problem, I called them today and told them what I have been doing for maintenance, I was ready to defend myself, and I decided I should be patient and nice...and they are giving me a new gasket and some affresh tablets for maintenance.
The lessons I have learned are:
- keep the door open ALL the time if not in use
- wipe down ALL wet surfaces after you are done washing
- use maintenance tablets to clean machine
- don't leave wet clothes in washer
