Mildew in a front loader

[ceciclem]

Has anyone else had problems with mildew growing in the rubber seal of their front loading washer and if so, is there any good way to control that other than using chlorine bleach? I have recently started to use a small amouth of bleach with white towels to control this growth but I keep thinking, there has to be a better way. I don't even want bleach in my house if possible.

[Inwe Surion]

Contact the manufacturer. The first Neptunes had the mildew problem and finally Maytag developed a new model that got rid of the problem.

[Quirky]

Try white vinegar. I run a super hot load with white vinegar in the soap and rinse compartments and that seems to keep the mildew smell in check. Also, I leave the washer door open so it can dry out between loads.

[ceciclem]

Jane- I have tried this. I actually use vinegar in the rinse cycle on a pretty regular basis and it doesn't seem to help. : I have recently started trying to leave the door open as much as I can but I have a curious toddler who likes to swing on the door and stash stuff in the drum and i'm worried he might hurt himself or the washer! (it's installed in our kitchen)

I had it serviced about a month ago and brought this problem up with the repairman and he said that it's a pretty common problem and that regular bleach use keeps mildew in check. I'm sure it does but like I said, I'm hoping to find an alternative. I think I'll contact the mfg. and see what ideas they might offer. I think I'll do a search online too (not sure why I didn't think of that before!) because I think there is a message board somewhere for combo unit users. It's a Quietline (Thor)

I really appreciate the suggestions!

[coleslaw]

Cecila, Did you find any answers? We have the same problem even with leaving the door open. Thanks for bringing it up!

[Aster]

Havent had that problem with our front loader, but have you tried tea tree oil? TTO should killl the mildew just as well, if not better than bleach.

T The repair guy's coming to replace the timer on our front loader today!! Whoo hooo! I can start washing dipes again :LOL