Washing Machine Smells Bad – What To Do?

Why does my washing machine smell?

Are you noticing a persistent, unpleasant odour coming from your washing machine? Unfortunately, this is an increasingly common problem and understanding why it happens and how you can prevent it is essential if you want fresh-smelling clothes. Stay tuned to learn more about the most common reasons your washing machine smells musty.

Reason #1: Not cleaning regularly

The number 1 cause of washing machine stench is irregular cleaning. This is especially true if you have a front-loading washing machine, as these appliances tend to retain more moisture than their top-loading counterparts, making them more prone to mould and mildew.

To avoid this problem, it is important to clean the inside of your washing machine at least once a month with hot water and white vinegar or baking soda. This will help to prevent mould growth and eliminate unpleasant odours.

Reason #2: Buildup of detergent

If too much detergent is used in each load, it can build up over time and cause an unpleasant smell from the washing machine drum. To prevent this from happening, make sure that you measure out the proper amount of detergent for each wash cycle.

In addition, be sure to use high-quality detergents designed specifically for front- or top-loading machines, as they are better able to control excessive foaming and reduce build-up in the drum.

Reason #3: Clogged drain hose

Another reason your washer smells like sewage is a blocked drain hose. This happens when lint or other debris builds up in the hose, preventing water from draining properly and leading to an accumulation of bacteria that can lead to an unpleasant odour from your device. To prevent this from happening, make sure that you check your drain hose periodically for clogs and clear any debris that may be present.

Reason #4: Not ventilating properly

Poor ventilation can also contribute to foul smells in your washing machine as there won’t be enough air circulation for moisture to evaporate properly after each cycle has finished running. To ensure that your washer is ventilating properly, make sure that no obstructions are blocking its vents (such as furniture or curtains) and check periodically for any signs of mould or mildew buildup around these areas.

Reason #5: Faulty seals

Faulty seals on either the door or lid of your washing machine can allow air into the drum, which can cause mould or mildew growth if not addressed quickly enough, leading to an unpleasant odour coming from inside the washer itself!

Periodically check these seals for signs of wear and tear and replace them immediately if they are damaged or broken – this will help to avoid unpleasant odours and protect against potential damage caused by water leaks!

How to get rid of smell in the washer?

All washing machines are made with the same technologies, including the drain system. Most drain pumps have a filter basket that protects the drain pump from foreign objects such as coins, shirt pins, lint etc. All of them can break down the drain pump.

Clean the drain pump filter of all objects. You can find the drain pump filter usually exposed on the bottom of the smelly washing machine. It’s called a service window door; a small flap door reveals a drain pump filter cap that unscrews like a regular bottle cap.

Remove the filter and clean it. Then install it back; if not, it might leak. If you possess a lower-end washing machine, it’s better to call a service technician.

Does your washing machine still smell after cleaning? Examine the big rubber seal between the drum and the external wall of the body washer. Open the washing machine door and inspect visually for mold and any other foreign objects. If your seal is mouldy or just starting to get mould, use bleach to clean it off. If it doesn’t come out, you need a new rubber gasket.

To get rid of smell in your washer, ensure you use the right products. Most manufacturers will take advantage of you by selling you organic chemicals that don’t work well and cause your unit to break much faster than it should. Don’t be afraid to test products out.

We recommend trying out German products in your local stores, such as PERSIL. You will notice the drastic difference in the maintenance of your washing machine parts (heating elements, soap dispenser, water valve assemblies, Bearings, Spider arms), and the quality of the wash will drastically increase.

You can also purchase cleaning tablets; they will clean the entire system. As an alternative, you can run the empty unit with hot water. Do not use vinegar. It can bind with other chemicals in your system and cause sensor failure or, even worse, smell.

In 95 % of cases, you don’t need to call a technician for this kind of issue. It can be resolved even if you do not have any technical skills or knowledge.

REFERENCES

Stapleton, Katherine, et al. “The potential impact of washing machines on laundry malodour generation.” Letters in Applied Microbiology 56.4 (2013): 299-306.
https://doi.org/10.1111/lam.12050