How to Get Rid of the Stinky Smell in Your Washing Machine
This Article Written By
Carly C.
Author / Co-Owner
Hi there, my name is Carly! I am a massive New England Patriots fan, I cannot start my day without Starbucks, and… growing up, I was my mom’s messiest kid. Who would’ve thought I would be the one to own a cleaning business.
Hey there! It’s Carly from FreshLee Cleaning Co., and today we’re tackling a not-so-fun topic: that stinky smell coming from your washing machine. If your washer is starting to smell a little funky (or a lot), don’t worry—you’re not alone! Washing machines deal with all sorts of grime, and over time, that can lead to a build-up of odors. But no stress, I’ve got the scoop on how to freshen things up so your washer smells as good as the clothes coming out of it. Let’s get into it!
Why Does Your Washing Machine Smell?
First things first, let’s talk about why your washing machine might smell in the first place. The most common culprits are soap scum, mold, mildew, and leftover detergent or fabric softener. All of this can accumulate in the drum, hoses, and seals, especially in high-efficiency (HE) machines that use less water. When moisture gets trapped, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria and mold to grow—and that’s where the stink comes from.
Clean the Drum
The first step to eliminating the odor is giving the inside of your machine a good scrub.
- For Front-Loading Washers: These are notorious for developing smells because the door seal traps moisture. Start by wiping down the rubber gasket around the door. Use a microfiber cloth and a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar to clean any visible mold or mildew. Make sure to get in between the folds of the gasket—this is where gunk loves to hide!
- For Top-Loading Washers: These usually don’t get as smelly, but the drum can still collect detergent residue. For both front and top loaders, run a cleaning cycle using the hottest water setting and add either two cups of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner tablet. Vinegar helps break down residue and kills bacteria, leaving your washer fresh and clean.
Pro Tip: If your washer doesn’t have a self-cleaning cycle, just run a regular hot cycle with vinegar, and pause it midway through to let the vinegar sit for about 30 minutes before finishing the cycle.
Scrub the Detergent Drawer
Soap scum and detergent buildup are common in the detergent drawer, and this can contribute to the smell. Take the drawer out (check your machine’s manual if you’re not sure how), and wash it with warm, soapy water. Use an old toothbrush to scrub any hard-to-reach spots, then rinse and dry it thoroughly before putting it back.
Pro Tip: If you use liquid detergent or fabric softener, switch to HE detergent if you have a high-efficiency machine. Regular detergent can create excess suds, which leave behind residue.
Don’t Forget the Filter
If your washing machine has a drain pump filter (common in front-loading machines), it’s probably overdue for a cleaning. The filter catches lint, hair, and other debris from your clothes, and when it gets clogged, it can start to smell. Locate the filter (usually at the bottom front of the machine), open it up, and clean out any gunk. Be prepared with a towel because some water will likely spill out!
Let It Breathe!
One of the easiest ways to prevent smells in the future is by leaving the door or lid open after each load. This allows air to circulate and helps dry out any lingering moisture, which is a big factor in keeping mold and mildew at bay.
Pro Tip: If you have a front-loader, prop the door open with a rolled-up towel so it’s not fully closed, or use a door prop clip that’s specifically designed for front-load washers.
Try Baking Soda for Extra Freshness
If the smell is still lingering after cleaning with vinegar, you can give baking soda a try. It’s great for neutralizing odors. Simply sprinkle half a cup of baking soda directly into the drum and run another hot cycle. This will help eliminate any stubborn smells that vinegar might not have tackled.
Maintain a Regular Cleaning Routine
Keeping your washing machine smelling fresh requires a little maintenance, but it’s totally worth it. Make it a habit to clean your machine once a month. Use a cleaner specifically designed for washing machines or run a hot cycle with vinegar and baking soda. And always leave the door open between washes!
Dryer Sheets & Scent Boosters: Yay or Nay?
A lot of people try to mask odors with dryer sheets or scent boosters, but these don’t address the root of the problem. Plus, dryer sheets can leave a film on your machine that builds up over time, contributing to the smell. If you love using scent boosters, just make sure you’re cleaning your machine regularly to avoid that buildup! For a plumber friendly approach, instead of using fabric softener just use a splash of white vinegar for the same result!
Need Professional Help?
A smelly washing machine isn’t something you have to live with, and it’s easier to fix than you might think! With a little vinegar, baking soda, and a regular cleaning routine, you can keep your washer fresh and stink-free. So go ahead, tackle that odor, and let’s get those laundry days smelling sweet again!
Need more cleaning tips or help tackling bigger jobs? You know where to find me—FreshLee Cleaning Co. is always here to help keep your home fresh and sparkling!