How to Get Smell Out of Washing Machine: Easy Cleaning Tips
A smelly washing machine can turn your fresh laundry into a less-than-pleasant experience. If you’ve noticed a musty or funky odor coming from your washer, you’re not alone. This common issue often results from trapped moisture, detergent buildup, or mold growth inside the machine.
Fortunately, getting rid of that smell is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps and regular maintenance, you can restore your washing machine’s freshness and keep your clothes smelling clean every time. Let’s explore how you can tackle those odors and enjoy a fresher laundry routine.
Understanding the Cause of Washing Machine Odors
Identifying the root causes of odors in your washing machine helps tackle the problem effectively. Knowing what creates these smells leads to proper cleaning and prevention techniques.
Common Sources of Smell in Washing Machines
You encounter odors mainly from mold growth, detergent buildup, and trapped moisture. Mold thrives in dark, damp areas like rubber seals and detergent dispensers. Detergent and fabric softener residues accumulate over time, creating a sticky film that traps grime and bacteria. Stagnant water in the drain pump or filter also produces musty odors. Front-loading machines are especially prone to these sources due to their airtight design, which limits airflow.
How Moisture and Residue Contribute to Odors
Moisture left inside the drum, door gasket, and detergent drawer creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Residues from detergent and fabric softeners feed these bacteria, leading to foul smells. You trap water in crevices when you close the door immediately after a wash or use too much detergent. Over time, this causes mildew buildup and persistent odors. Regular airing and correct detergent use reduce moisture and residue, lowering the risk of odor development.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get Smell Out of Washing Machine
Follow these steps to eliminate odors from your washing machine and maintain a fresh laundry environment.
Cleaning the Detergent Dispenser and Seals
Start by removing the detergent dispenser drawer and soaking it in hot, soapy water. Scrub away detergent buildup or mold using an old toothbrush. Wipe down rubber door seals carefully, focusing on crevices where moisture and grime accumulate. Dry both parts thoroughly before reinserting them to prevent mold growth.
Running a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar or Baking Soda
Use vinegar or baking soda as natural cleaners to break down residue and kill bacteria. For a vinegar cycle, pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser and run a hot water cycle without clothes. For baking soda, add 1/2 cup directly into the drum and run the same cycle. Repeat monthly to keep odors at bay.
Removing and Cleaning the Filter
Locate the washing machine’s filter, usually at the bottom front behind a small panel. Remove the filter and clear trapped lint, coins, or debris that can cause stagnant water and smells. Rinse the filter under hot water and replace it securely. Clean the filter monthly for optimal performance.
Ensuring Proper Ventilation and Drying After Use
Leave the washing machine door open for at least an hour after each use to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. Remove detergent dispensers and dry them if possible. Store the machine in a well-ventilated area to reduce humidity and inhibit mold growth.
Preventative Measures to Keep Your Washing Machine Smell-Free
Maintaining a fresh-smelling washing machine requires ongoing care. Use these preventative measures to stop odors before they start.
Regular Maintenance Tips
Clean your washing machine monthly to prevent buildup and odors. Run a hot water cycle using two cups of white vinegar or half a cup of baking soda to dissolve residue. Wipe down the rubber door seal, detergent dispenser, and interior walls after each wash to remove moisture and debris. Leave the door open after every cycle to improve air circulation and speed up drying. Remove and clean the filter every few months to eliminate trapped water and prevent mildew growth. Check hoses periodically for blockages, mold, or damage. These steps limit mold, bacteria, and detergent buildup that produce unpleasant smells.
Best Practices for Using Detergent and Fabric Softener
Measure detergent and fabric softener accurately to avoid excess residue. Use high-efficiency detergent in HE machines to reduce foaming and buildup. Avoid liquid fabric softeners where possible; opt for dryer sheets or scent boosters to reduce sticky deposits. Add detergent to dispensers before clothes to ensure proper dilution during the wash cycle. Use cold water settings for lightly soiled loads, reserving hot water for heavily soiled items to minimize residue accumulation. Follow manufacturer instructions on detergent type and amount for your machine model to optimize performance and prevent odor-causing buildup.
When to Call a Professional for Washing Machine Odor Issues
Recognize when odor problems persist despite your cleaning efforts. Call a professional if the smell returns quickly after thorough cleaning, indicating hidden mold or structural issues. Contact an expert when you detect foul odors accompanied by leaks or unusual noises, which might signal internal damage. Seek professional help if you notice clogged or malfunctioning drainage systems causing stagnant water build-up. Request service when DIY solutions fail to eliminate musty smells from hard-to-reach areas like internal pipes or the drum. Engage a technician for yearly inspections to prevent odor-causing buildup, especially if your washing machine is older or heavily used.
Conclusion
Keeping your washing machine fresh is all about regular care and attention. By staying on top of cleaning and maintenance, you’ll prevent odors from taking hold and enjoy cleaner, fresher laundry every time.
If you ever notice persistent smells or unusual signs, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. Taking these steps ensures your washing machine stays in top shape and your laundry routine stays hassle-free.