If you’ve ever opened your washing machine only to be hit by an unpleasant, musty odor, you’re definitely not alone. Many homeowners encounter smelly washers at some point—and while it’s frustrating, there are clear reasons this happens and practical solutions you can try. Let’s break down the most common causes of washer smells and how to finally get your laundry (and your laundry room) smelling fresh again.
The Usual Suspects: Why Washers Start to Stink
Washing machines are designed to clean, so it feels counterintuitive for them to get dirty or develop foul odors. Yet, ironically, their very design and the conditions they operate in can make them a prime spot for odor-causing buildup.
1. Mold and Mildew Growth
The number one culprit is moisture. Washing machines, especially high-efficiency front loaders, are frequently damp inside. When the door or lid stays closed between cycles, this creates a humid, dark environment where mold and mildew thrive. These fungi cling to the rubber door gasket, detergent drawer, and other hard-to-clean crevices.
2. Soap Scum and Detergent Residue
It might surprise you to know that using too much detergent, or the wrong kind, can make matters worse. Excess soap doesn’t always rinse away; instead, it leaves behind a sticky residue that traps dirt, lint, and bacteria. Over time, this build-up becomes a breeding ground for unpleasant smells.
3. Trapped Lint, Hair, and Debris
Laundry isn’t just about clothes. Pet hair, lint, skin cells, and all sorts of microscopic gunk get washed away—or at least, that’s the idea. But some of it gets caught in the filter, drum, or gasket, where it starts to rot and create bad odors.
4. Blocked or Dirty Drain
A less obvious, but equally important factor is the washer’s drainage system. If the drain is partially blocked or slow, dirty water may linger in the machine, leading to a musty or even sewage-like smell.
5. Forgotten Laundry
It happens to the best of us: you start a load, get distracted, and only remember it hours—or days—later. Damp laundry sitting in the washer quickly becomes funky, and that odor can stick to both the clothes and the machine itself.
How to Get Rid of Washer Odors: Step-by-Step Solutions
The good news is that most washer odors can be eliminated without a service call. Here’s how to tackle the stink:
1. Run a Cleaning Cycle (Or a DIY Alternative)
Most modern washers have a dedicated cleaning or “tub clean” cycle. Use it with a washer cleaner or a homemade solution (such as two cups of white vinegar or baking soda). Run the hottest cycle with an empty drum.
2. Scrub the Gasket, Door, and Detergent Tray
Open the door and look closely at the rubber seal—see any black spots? Wipe them away with a solution of water and vinegar, or use a mild bleach mixture (wear gloves). Remove and clean the detergent dispenser with hot, soapy water.
3. Clean the Filter
Many machines have a lint filter or coin trap that collects debris. Check your user manual for how to locate and clean this. It can be surprising (and a bit gross) how much gunk accumulates here.
4. Dry Out the Washer
Leave the door or lid open after every wash to allow air to circulate and dry out the drum and gasket. This one habit alone prevents most mold issues.
5. Use the Right Detergent, in the Right Amount
Always use high-efficiency (HE) detergent if required, and avoid overfilling the soap drawer. Sometimes, less is more—too much detergent is a recipe for residue and odors.
6. Address Drain Issues
If you suspect your washer isn’t draining properly, check the hose for kinks or clogs. You can also run an extra rinse/spin cycle to clear out lingering water.
7. Don’t Leave Wet Laundry Sitting
Try to remove clothes soon after the cycle ends. If you do forget, rewash with hot water and a cup of baking soda or vinegar.
Preventing Future Smells: Long-Term Habits
- Leave the door open between uses.
- Clean the detergent tray monthly.
- Run a cleaning cycle once a month.
- Wipe down the drum and gasket regularly.
A little routine care goes a long way. However, if you’ve tried all of these tips and your washer still smells bad—or if you suspect a deeper mechanical problem—it might be time for professional help.
When DIY Isn’t Enough: Get Expert Washer Repair
There are times when persistent smells signal a bigger issue, like a hidden leak, mold deep inside the machine, or a malfunctioning drain pump. If you’ve gone through the cleaning checklist and your washer still reeks, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional.
If you couldn’t fix it, contact us and we will fix it. Our expert technicians can diagnose and eliminate even the toughest washer odor problems—so you can get back to clean, fresh laundry without the hassle.