Ever opened your washing machine and been greeted by a musty or sour smell instead of the fresh scent you expected? If so, you’re not alone—bad odors in washing machines are a common frustration for many households.
A smelly washer isn’t just unpleasant. It can make your clean clothes less fresh and may even harbor bacteria or mold. The good news? A few simple strategies can restore that clean, inviting scent.
In this article, we’ll walk you through why washing machines develop odors and share straightforward steps and tips to make yours smell better than ever.
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How Do I Make My Washing Machine Smell Better?
A smelly washing machine is a surprisingly common problem. Whether it’s a front-loader or a top-loader, your washer can sometimes develop unpleasant odors that cling to your clothes and your laundry room. The good news? You can make your washing machine smell fresh again by understanding the causes and taking simple, regular steps to clean and maintain it.
Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?
Despite its purpose of cleaning clothes, your washing machine can actually become a breeding ground for odors. Here are some common reasons why:
- Soap Scum & Detergent Residue: Excess detergent and fabric softener don’t always rinse away completely, leading to a sticky buildup inside the drum and hoses.
- Moisture: Washing machines are dark and damp places, making them perfect environments for mold and mildew to grow, especially if the door or lid remains closed after use.
- Trapped Lint & Debris: Small pieces of fabric, hair, and dirt can get trapped in the gasket, filter, or drain, causing rot and odors.
- Low-Temperature Wash Cycles: Washing exclusively with cold water may not kill bacteria and mold spores that cause smells.
- Neglected Maintenance: Skipping regular cleanings or not following maintenance tips lets grime, bacteria, and mold accumulate.
How To Make Your Washing Machine Smell Better: Step-By-Step Guide
Restoring your washing machine’s freshness is easier than you may think. Follow these simple steps:
1. Empty and Inspect
- Make sure there are no clothes or laundry in the washer.
- Check the drum, rubber seal (gasket), detergent dispenser, and door or lid for visible debris, mold, or mildew.
2. Clean the Detergent Dispenser
- Remove the detergent tray if possible.
- Soak it in warm soapy water and scrub off all residue.
- Clean the compartment where the tray sits, using an old toothbrush or soft brush.
3. Clean the Drum
- For front-loaders, pay attention to the rubber gasket around the door; peel it back and thoroughly wipe away grime and trapped items.
- For top-loaders, check around the agitator and drum rims.
Cleaning Solution:
- Mix ¼ cup of baking soda with ¼ cup of water.
- Pour the solution into the detergent dispenser.
- Add 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.
Run a Cleaning Cycle:
- Set your washer on the hottest and longest cycle.
- Let the full cycle run with the solution inside.
- The vinegar helps kill mold and bacteria, while baking soda neutralizes odors.
4. Wipe Everything Down
- After the cycle, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the drum, lid or door, gasket, and inside the detergent compartment.
- Pay attention to any nooks or crannies where moisture may sit.
5. Clean the Filter (If Applicable)
- Many washers have a drain filter or lint trap that can collect buildup.
- Locate your filter based on your washer model.
- Remove, rinse, and scrub the filter, then replace it.
6. Air Out The Machine
- Leave the washer door or lid open between washes to let the interior dry out completely and prevent future smells.
Ongoing Maintenance: Keep Your Washer Fresh
A little ongoing care goes a long way in preventing recurring odors.
Regular Quick Tips
- Wipe the Gasket: After each use, dry off the door seals and gaskets.
- Leave It Open: Keep the door or lid cracked open when not in use.
- Monthly Deep Clean: Run a hot cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar every month.
- Use Less Detergent: Too much detergent leads to buildup and residue.
- Skip Occasional Loads: Run an empty cycle with hot water and baking soda/vinegar (or a washing machine cleaning tablet) every few weeks.
Laundry Habits That Help
- Promptly Remove Clothes: Don’t let damp laundry sit inside the washer; move it to the dryer as soon as it’s finished.
- Select Hot Water Occasionally: Even if you usually use cold water, do a hot water wash once in a while to kill germs.
Pros and Cons of DIY Cleaners
Benefits
- Safe and Non-Toxic: Baking soda and vinegar are gentle, natural cleaners.
- Affordable: These solutions cost only pennies per use.
- Effective: Regular use breaks down residue and neutralizes odors.
Challenges
- Vinegar and Rubber: Frequent use of vinegar may degrade rubber seals over years; balance vinegar cycles with other cleaning methods.
- Persistent Odors: If smell persists after several attempts, you may need a professional inspection—there could be a hidden mold source or plumbing issue.
Extra Tips for Fresh Laundry Every Time
Want your laundry itself to smell just as fresh as your clean washing machine? Try these added tricks:
- Use Scent Boosters: Specialized laundry scent beads or crystals add a pleasant fragrance.
- Choose the Right Detergent: Opt for high-efficiency (HE) detergent if your machine requires it, and avoid overuse.
- Dry Completely: Ensure clothes are dried thoroughly before folding or storing.
- Clean Hamper/Baskets: Wash your laundry basket occasionally—they can harbor their own odors.
- Add Essential Oils: A few drops (like lavender or lemon) in the fabric softener compartment add natural scent.
Troubleshooting Persistent Odors
If smells linger even after repeated cleaning:
- Check for Leaks: Water that pools under or behind the machine may mean a leak that leads to musty smells.
- Inspect the Drain Hose: Kinks, clogs, or mold buildup inside drainage hoses can harbor odors. Unhook, flush, and inspect if safe and possible.
- Call a Professional: If odors are stubborn, persistent mold, or mildew inside the machine’s internal parts may require expert service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I clean my washing machine to prevent smells?
Aim to clean your washing machine once a month. Regular wipe-downs of the gasket and leaving the door open after each use also help keep odors at bay.
Can I use commercial washing machine cleaners instead of vinegar and baking soda?
Yes, commercial washing machine cleaning tablets are formulated for this purpose and work well. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific washer.
Why do front-loading washing machines smell worse than top-loaders?
Front-loaders have airtight seals to prevent leaks, but these also trap moisture and residue inside the gasket. Regular cleaning and airing out the door help prevent this issue.
Are these cleaning methods safe for all washing machines?
Most standard washers, both front- and top-loading, can handle baking soda and vinegar cleanings. However, always check your owner’s manual for any specific care instructions or warnings.
What should I do if my washer still smells after cleaning?
Persistent odors could indicate trapped bacteria, a blocked drain, or a mechanical problem. Try repeating the cleaning cycle, deep cleaning all accessible parts, and if smell persists, consult a repair professional.
By following these simple cleaning routines and best laundry practices, you’ll say goodbye to stinky washing machine smells and hello to fresh, clean clothes every time. Happy washing!