Heat things up once in a while.
Be sure to use the hot-water cycle in your washer every once in a while; this will help to kill any potential bacteria. It is especially important to use hot-water when washing undergarments, underwear, cloth diapers, and bedding, which most often contain bacteria.
Don't let things linger when you launder.
Don't leave wet laundry sit in the washer after the cycle is done. This is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew, especially when damp laundry sits for more than a half-hour. Any longer, and you should run the load through the wash again.
Give it a little something.
In the case of a washer, give it a capful of pine-oil disinfectant or ½ cup of chlorine beach. Run a hot water cycle, empty of course, and kill bacteria without any muscle.
If you got it, use it.
Some washers are equipped with a sterilize-cycle which allows you to wash in a cooler temperature, but that will remove bacteria from the laundry for you. Other washer designs incorporate a special lining in the tub that prevents and rids bacteria from the load.
Your clothes may actually be dirtier after you launder them, if you have bacteria in your washer. Prevent the risk of mildew or illness with these simple tips.