Several class action lawsuits against washing machine manufacturers in the U.S. have reached preliminary settlements.

One lawsuit alleges that LG front-loading washers had a tendency to develop mould and odour. LG has not admitted to any wrongdoing, and the court has not made a decision about who is in the right.

“The issue started out as mostly online chatter about mouldy odours but it turned into multiple class-action lawsuits involving more than six million front-loading washing machines,” said Consumer Reports’ Dan DiClerico.

U.S. customers who previously or currently own an LG washing machine sold between 2002 and 2006 may qualify for the US$35 settlement or a $105 rebate on a new LG washer.

In an email to CTV News, a representative from LG Canada said that since this is a U.S.-based lawsuit, it only relates to U.S. models, and there is no similar lawsuit in Canada over front-loading washers sold between 2002 and 2006.

The other lawsuit involved Whirlpool machines manufactured between 2001 and 2010 and sold under the Whirlpool, Maytag and Kenmore brands. U.S. customers who own one of those front-loading machines may qualify for a US$50 settlement or 20 per cent off the purchase of a new washer or dryer.

If you have a front-loading machine at home and have noticed an odour, there are some easy ways to clean it that can prevent mould and mildew:

– Wipe down the glass and door

– Leave the door open slightly between washes

– Clean the machine by adding a cup of chlorine bleach

– Run a hot water wash without laundry

“Manufacturers claim they’ve resolved the problem by improving the door gasket and adding a tub clean cycle,” said DiClerico.

However, if you’d prefer to steer clear of a front-loading machine, Consumer Reports recommends a US$750 Samsung top-loader that has good water efficiency, washing performance and is gentle on clothing.