How Do You Get Gasoline Smell Out of Washing Machine?

The gasoline smell can often be overpowering, especially when it accidentally spills onto your clothes and enters your washing machine. If you’re dealing with a gasoline odor in your washing machine, fret not! In this article, we will guide you through getting rid of that unpleasant smell and ensure your washing machine is fresh and ready for its next load.

First, to remove the gasoline smell from a washing machine, run a cycle with hot water and 2 cups of white vinegar without any clothes to cleanse and deodorize the interior. Follow this with another cycle using hot water and a half-cup of baking soda to neutralize any lingering odors further. Finally, leave the washing machine door open to air dry thoroughly, eliminating all traces of the gasoline smell. 

Step 1: Ventilate the Area

Start by opening windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. It will help dissipate the gasoline smell and reduce its intensity.

Step 2: Remove the Affected Clothes

Please remove the clothes that have come into contact with gasoline and place them outside or in a well-ventilated area. Avoid handling these clothes indoors to prevent the odor from spreading further.

Step 3: Prepare a Vinegar Solution

Mix equal white vinegar and water in a bucket or large container. Vinegar is known to neutralize odors effectively and can help eliminate the gasoline smell from your washing machine.

Step 4: Wipe Down the Inside of the Machine

Dampen a clean cloth in the vinegar solution and use it to wipe down the interior surfaces of the washing machine. Pay close attention to areas where gasoline may have come into contact, such as the agitator, drum, and door seal.

Step 5: Run a Vinegar Cycle

Pour the remaining vinegar solution into the detergent dispenser or the washing machine tub. Run a hot water cycle using high agitation settings. This will help clean the internal components and remove any lingering gasoline odor.

 Caution: Ensure the washing machine barrel is empty when running the vinegar cycle to avoid potential damage to clothing.  

Step 6: Repeat the Cycle with Baking Soda

After completing the vinegar cycle, sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the washing machine drum. Run another hot water cycle with high agitation settings. Baking soda helps neutralize odors and freshens up the machine.

Step 7: Air Dry the Washing Machine

Once the washing machine cycle is complete, open the door and let the interior air dry naturally. Please avoid using the machine until it is scorched to prevent potential risks.

Step 8: Clean the Drum and Filter

Remove any residue or debris from the washing machine drum and clean the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will ensure the machine remains in good working order and reduces the chance of future smells.

Tips to Prevent Gasoline Odor in the Future

• Remove any gasoline or oil stains from clothes before placing them in the washing machine.
• Wash heavily soiled clothing separately to avoid cross-contamination.
• Consider using a pre-wash stain remover explicitly designed for oil or grease stains.
• Store gasoline containers in a well-ventilated area away from living spaces to minimize the risk of spills.
• Keep gasoline away from clothing and washing machines to prevent accidental spills.

By following these steps and incorporating preventive measures, you can successfully remove gasoline odors from your washing machine and keep it fresh for future use. Remember to exercise caution when dealing with gasoline, and always prioritize safety.