How to Get Smell Out of Washing Machine: A Complete Guide

Ever opened your washing machine after a wash cycle and been greeted by a less-than-fresh odor? You’re not alone! That musty, mildewy smell is a common problem for many homeowners, even those diligent about laundry. It’s often caused by trapped moisture, detergent residue, and lingering bacteria that thrive in the warm, damp environment of your washing machine. Left unchecked, this odor can not only make doing laundry unpleasant, but it can also transfer to your clothes, leaving them smelling less than clean even after washing.

A smelly washing machine doesn’t just affect your nose; it impacts the cleanliness of your clothes and potentially the lifespan of your appliance. Over time, the build-up of mold and mildew can degrade rubber seals and hoses, leading to costly repairs. More importantly, clothes washed in a smelly machine may not be thoroughly cleaned, defeating the purpose of doing laundry in the first place. Taking proactive steps to eliminate odors and maintain a clean washing machine is crucial for ensuring fresh, clean clothes and a long-lasting appliance.

What are the best methods for banishing bad odors from my washing machine, and how often should I clean it?

What causes that musty smell in my washing machine?

The musty smell in your washing machine is primarily caused by the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. These microorganisms thrive in the damp, dark environment of your washing machine, feeding on leftover detergent, fabric softener, dirt, and lint. This creates a breeding ground that leads to that unpleasant odor.

Modern washing machines, especially High-Efficiency (HE) models, are designed to use less water. While this is good for water conservation, it also means that detergent and residue aren’t always completely flushed away during the wash cycle. This residue builds up over time in areas like the rubber gasket around the door (in front-load washers), the detergent dispenser, and even inside the drum itself, providing a constant food source for mold and bacteria. Front-load washers are particularly susceptible due to their horizontal drum orientation, which traps more moisture. Furthermore, leaving the washing machine door or lid closed after use exacerbates the problem. This traps moisture inside, preventing the machine from drying out properly and creating an ideal environment for microbial growth. The combination of leftover detergent, trapped moisture, and darkness creates the perfect storm for that musty, unpleasant smell to develop. Regular cleaning and proper ventilation are crucial for preventing this issue.

How often should I clean my washing machine to prevent odors?

To effectively prevent odors, aim to clean your washing machine at least once a month, or more frequently if you use it heavily or notice any musty smells developing. Regular cleaning removes detergent buildup, mildew, and other residues that contribute to unpleasant odors.

The frequency of cleaning really depends on your washing habits. If you consistently use liquid detergent (which tends to leave more residue than powder), wash frequently at low temperatures (which doesn’t fully activate the detergent and kills fewer bacteria), or regularly wash items that shed a lot of lint (like towels and blankets), you might need to clean your machine every two weeks. Conversely, if you primarily use powder detergent, wash at higher temperatures, and wash relatively clean clothing, cleaning every six weeks may suffice. Pay attention to any telltale signs of odor, which is a key indicator that a cleaning is due. Beyond a full monthly cleaning, simple preventative measures can further reduce odor buildup. Always leave the washing machine door slightly ajar after each use to allow air to circulate and dry out any remaining moisture. Promptly remove wet clothes after the wash cycle is complete to prevent mildew growth. Periodically wipe down the rubber gasket around the door with a dry cloth to remove any lingering water or debris. By combining regular deep cleanings with these simple habits, you can keep your washing machine smelling fresh and clean.

What are the best natural cleaners to remove washing machine smells?

The best natural cleaners to remove washing machine smells are white vinegar and baking soda. These are effective at killing mold and mildew, dissolving residue buildup from detergents and fabric softeners, and deodorizing the washing machine’s interior.

White vinegar is a mild acid that effectively combats mold and mildew, common culprits behind unpleasant washing machine odors. It also helps break down soap scum and mineral deposits that accumulate over time. Baking soda, on the other hand, is a natural deodorizer and mild abrasive. Its alkalinity helps neutralize acidic odors and gently scrub away grime. Using these two ingredients in conjunction offers a powerful cleaning duo. To use these natural cleaners, first, empty the washing machine. Then, pour about 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum. Next, sprinkle about 1/4 cup of baking soda into the detergent dispenser. Run the washing machine on the hottest water setting and the longest cycle. For especially stubborn odors, you can let the vinegar and baking soda mixture sit in the machine for about an hour before running the cycle. After the cycle is complete, leave the washing machine door ajar to allow it to air dry thoroughly, preventing moisture buildup and future odor problems. Regular use of these natural cleaners can prevent odors from returning. Aim to clean your washing machine with vinegar and baking soda at least once a month, or more frequently if you notice lingering smells. Remember to also regularly wipe down the rubber gasket around the door (if applicable) with a vinegar solution, as this area is prone to mold and mildew growth.

Can using too much detergent contribute to washing machine odor?

Yes, using too much detergent is a significant contributor to washing machine odor. Excess detergent doesn’t fully rinse away during the wash cycle, leaving behind a residue that builds up over time. This residue, mixed with lint, dirt, and fabric softener, creates a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria, which are the primary causes of unpleasant smells.

When you use too much detergent, the machine struggles to flush it all out, especially in high-efficiency (HE) washers that use less water. This leads to a sticky film accumulating in areas like the dispenser, drum, rubber gaskets, and drain hoses. This film traps organic matter, providing a food source for odor-causing microorganisms. Front-loading washers are particularly susceptible to this problem due to their horizontal drum design, which can trap water and residue more easily than top-loading machines. Furthermore, some detergents contain ingredients that are difficult to break down completely. These ingredients can contribute to the buildup even if you aren’t using excessive amounts. Using the correct amount of detergent as specified on the detergent packaging and regularly cleaning your washing machine will help prevent the buildup of residue and the development of unpleasant odors. Over time, switching to a detergent designed for your machine (HE for HE washers) and using the correct dosage can make a significant difference in keeping your washing machine fresh and odor-free.

How do I clean the rubber gasket on my front load washer?

To effectively clean the rubber gasket on your front load washer and eliminate odors, regularly wipe it down with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water after each load, paying close attention to the folds and crevices where moisture and debris accumulate. For a deeper clean, mix a small amount of baking soda into the vinegar and water solution and use an old toothbrush to scrub away any stubborn mold or mildew. Always dry the gasket thoroughly after cleaning to prevent further growth.

The rubber gasket, also known as the door seal, of your front load washing machine is a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria due to the constant moisture and trapped lint. This build-up not only causes unpleasant odors but can also damage the gasket over time, leading to leaks. Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain a hygienic washing environment and prolong the life of your machine. Don’t underestimate the importance of drying the gasket after cleaning. Lingering moisture is the primary culprit behind mold and mildew growth. After wiping down the gasket, leave the washer door slightly ajar to allow air to circulate and completely dry the area. You can also use a clean, dry cloth to thoroughly absorb any remaining moisture. Incorporating this simple step into your laundry routine will significantly reduce the chances of unwanted odors and gasket degradation.

Will running a hot water cycle with bleach eliminate the smell?

Yes, running a hot water cycle with bleach can often eliminate unpleasant smells in your washing machine, especially those caused by mold, mildew, or lingering detergent residue. Bleach is a powerful disinfectant and effectively kills odor-causing bacteria and fungi. However, it’s crucial to use bleach safely and correctly to avoid damaging your machine or creating harmful fumes.

Using a hot water cycle maximizes the effectiveness of the bleach. The higher temperature helps to activate the bleach and dissolve built-up residue more efficiently. Before running the cycle, ensure that your washing machine drum is empty. Pour approximately 1 cup of bleach into the bleach dispenser, or directly into the drum if there isn’t a dispenser, and then run a full wash cycle using the hottest water setting available. After the bleach cycle is complete, it’s wise to run another rinse cycle with clean water to remove any lingering bleach residue. While bleach is effective, it’s essential to prevent the smell from returning. Always leave the washing machine door slightly ajar after each use to allow it to air out and prevent moisture buildup, which fosters mold and mildew growth. Regularly clean the detergent dispenser and rubber seals, as these areas are prone to trapping residue. Consider using HE (High Efficiency) detergent if you have an HE machine, as it produces less suds and is less likely to leave residue behind. Finally, consider alternating bleach with white vinegar cleaning cycles, as vinegar is another natural deodorizer that can help prevent future odors.

What’s the best way to prevent smells in a high-efficiency (HE) washer?

The best way to prevent smells in a high-efficiency (HE) washer is to regularly clean it, use the correct amount of HE detergent, leave the door ajar after each wash, and occasionally run a hot water cycle with a washing machine cleaner or diluted bleach.

HE washers, while energy-efficient, are prone to developing musty or mildewy smells due to their low water usage. This reduced water level can leave behind detergent residue and create a moist environment where bacteria and mold thrive. Consistent preventative maintenance is key to avoiding these odors. Using too much detergent is a common mistake; HE washers are designed to work with smaller quantities, and excess soap contributes significantly to residue buildup. Always measure detergent carefully and consider using a high-quality HE detergent formulated to rinse cleanly. Furthermore, the seals and gaskets of HE washers can trap moisture and debris. Regularly wipe down these areas with a clean, dry cloth, especially around the door opening. Promptly removing wet clothes after a wash cycle will also reduce the moisture level inside the machine. Finally, consider incorporating a monthly cleaning cycle. Most HE washers have a specific “clean washer” cycle, or you can run a normal hot water cycle with a cup of white vinegar, a washing machine cleaner, or a small amount (approximately 1/4 cup) of diluted bleach.

So there you have it! Hopefully, these tips will help you banish those nasty odors and keep your washing machine smelling fresh and clean. Thanks for reading, and we hope you’ll come back soon for more helpful hints and tricks to make your life a little easier!