If you’ve ever encountered mildewy smells coming from your washing machine or a moldy door seal, you’ve probably wondered whether you should leave the door open to give things a chance to air out. The answer depends on what type of washing machine you have and your usage habits.
At Appliance E.M.T., we don’t just fix malfunctions — we want to educate our customers on proper appliance care so they can prevent future issues. That’s why we’re presenting this blog post that answers the all-important question of whether you should leave your washing machine door open when it’s not in use.
Keep reading to learn the pros and cons of keeping your washing machine door open, health considerations to be aware of, tips for proper washing machine maintenance, other ways to prevent mold and odors, and when to call the professionals at Appliance E.M.T.
Why Does It Matter?
You may be thinking to yourself, Does it really matter whether I leave the door open or closed? Well, the answer is yes! Your washing machine is a wet environment, which means it can develop odors and become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. If this happens, your washer can’t do its job properly and will leave your clothes smelling funky or covered in spores.
Plus, mold can impact your health. Breathing in mold spores can cause respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and congestion, especially if you have asthma. Plus, if you have a mold allergy, it can cause inflammation in your lungs, eyes, and nose, and if you have a compromised immune system, you can get a fungal infection.
Proper maintenance — including everyday habits like leaving the door open when not in use — are essential for avoiding mold and mildew growth inside the drum and on the door seal, ensuring your clothes come out completely clean, and extending the lifespan of your machine.
Risks of Leaving the Washing Machine Door Closed
Mold thrives in environments that are warm, dark, moist, and have little airflow — just like the inside of your washing machine. When you leave the door closed, you’re trapping moisture inside the drum. Without airflow, it can’t dry, creating a perpetually damp environment perfect for mold and mildew to thrive.
One area of the washing machine that is particularly susceptible to mold and mildew is the rubber gaskets and door seals, especially on front-loading washers. Moisture tends to get trapped in the little nooks and grooves of the rubber, encouraging mold growth and potentially degrading the material.
Even if there’s not an obvious mold or mildew problem, keeping your washing machine’s door closed can create musty odors that linger on your laundry. Instead of that nice, clean scent, your clothes will smell no better than they did before you washed them.
Benefits of Leaving the Washing Machine Door Open
Leaving the washing machine door open is typically the smarter choice. By leaving it open, you’re ensuring there’s enough air circulation to dry out the drum and seals between loads. Not only does this minimize the risk of mold and mildew, but it also keeps the machine smelling fresh and helps you maintain the machine’s hygiene.
Letting your machine dry after use also helps prevent rust and corrosion that impact components’ longevity and efficiency, helping you avoid costly repairs and replacements over time.
So, how long should you leave the door open? A few hours after use is acceptable, but overnight is better. Many people leave the door open whenever the machine isn’t in use. You don’t need to leave it wide open — just a few inches is enough to get that airflow going.
If you have curious children or pets, make sure you shut the door to the laundry room while airing out your washing machine to prevent accidents or safety hazards. As long as the room still has airflow via HVAC vents, you should be good to go.
Alternative Ways to Prevent Mold and Odor
Leaving the washing machine door open isn’t the only way to prevent mold and odor. It’s also a good idea to:
- Regularly clean the gasket, detergent drawer, and drum
- Use the right detergent in the right amounts
- Run periodic maintenance cycles with hot water and vinegar or specialized washing machine cleaner
When to Call the Professionals at Appliance E.M.T.
If you notice signs of mold, leaks, or unusual odors, contact the experts at Appliance E.M.T. We can perform routine inspections and maintenance to prevent long-term damage to your washing machine.
If you live in Weber or Davis County, give us a call and we’ll be there to help ASAP!
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