A smelly washing machine can leave clothes with an unpleasant odor instead of that fresh, clean scent.
This happens when moisture, detergent residue, and bacteria build up inside the drum and seals. The good news is that a few simple habits can help prevent washer odor from developing in the first place.
Here are six straightforward ways to keep things fresh.
Why Washing Machines Start to Smell
Washing machines create the perfect environment for odor-causing bacteria and mildew.
Water tends to sit in hidden areas like the rubber gasket, detergent drawer, and drum. When combined with soap residue and fabric fibers, it can lead to that musty machine smell over time.
Front-load washers tend to trap more moisture because of their airtight seals. But top-loaders aren’t immune either, especially if the lid stays closed between washes.
1. Leave the Door or Lid Open After Every Wash
Trapping moisture inside the drum can encourage washing machine odor to develop.
When you finish a load, prop the door or lid open for a few hours. This lets air circulate and helps the interior dry out completely.
It’s a small step that can make a noticeable difference in preventing that damp, musty smell from settling in.
2. Wipe Down the Rubber Gasket and Door Seal Regularly
The rubber gasket on front-load washers is a common hiding spot for water, detergent, and lint.
After each wash, take a dry cloth and wipe around the folds of the seal. You might be surprised how much moisture collects there, even after the spin cycle.
This quick wipe-down can help reduce the buildup that leads to mildew and unpleasant odors.
3. Run a Cleaning Cycle With Vinegar or a Washer Cleaner
Even with regular use, residue can accumulate inside the drum and hoses.
Running a clean washing machine cycle once a month can help break down soap scum and bacteria. You can use white vinegar, baking soda, or a commercial washing machine cleaner designed for this purpose.
Just run an empty hot water cycle with your cleaner of choice. It’s a simple way to refresh the interior and keep things smelling neutral.
4. Use the Right Amount of Detergent
More detergent doesn’t mean cleaner clothes—it often means more residue.
Excess soap can stick to the drum, gasket, and hoses, creating a film that traps moisture and bacteria. High-efficiency washers especially need less detergent than you might think.
Check your detergent’s dosing instructions and measure carefully. Using the correct amount can help prevent buildup and keep your laundry smell fresh.
5. Clean the Detergent Drawer and Dispenser
The detergent drawer is easy to overlook, but it can harbor sticky residue and mold.
Pull the drawer out every few weeks and rinse it under warm water. Use an old toothbrush to scrub away any buildup in the corners or dispensing slots.
Some drawers are dishwasher-safe, which can help make cleaning more convenient. A clean dispenser helps ensure detergent flows properly and doesn’t contribute to odor issues.
6. Remove Wet Clothes Promptly After the Cycle Ends
Leaving damp clothes sitting in the washer can quickly contribute to a smell problem.
Wet fabric in a closed, warm drum can develop a sour odor within hours. That smell can transfer to the machine itself and linger even after the clothes are removed.
Set a timer or use your washer’s end-of-cycle alert if it has one. Getting clothes out quickly can help keep both your laundry and your machine smelling better.
What Else Can Help With Washing Machine Maintenance
A few extra habits can support your efforts to keep things fresh.
Avoid using fabric softener in every load, as it can leave a waxy coating inside the drum. If you have a front-loader, check the drain filter every few months and clear out any trapped debris.
You can also run an occasional hot water cycle without clothes to help flush out residue. These small steps work together to support a cleaner, more efficient machine.
Questions & Answers About Washing Machine Smells
Why does my washing machine smell like mildew?
Mildew tends to develops when moisture stays trapped inside the drum, gasket, or detergent drawer. Front-load washers are especially prone to this because their airtight seals prevent air circulation.
Leaving the door open after washes and wiping down the gasket can help reduce moisture buildup.
How often should I clean my washing machine?
Running a cleaning cycle once a month is a good baseline for most households. If you do a lot of laundry or notice odors developing sooner, you might want to clean it every two to three weeks.
Regular maintenance tends to be easier than dealing with stubborn smells later.
What causes washing machine smell in top-load washers?
Top-loaders can develop odors when water pools at the bottom of the drum or when detergent residue builds up. Keeping the lid open between loads and using the right amount of detergent can help.
Running a hot cleaning cycle occasionally also helps flush out hidden buildup.
Can vinegar remove washing machine odor?
White vinegar can help break down soap residue and neutralize some odors. Pour two cups into the drum and run a hot water cycle without clothes.
Is it safe to use bleach to clean a washing machine?
Bleach can be effective for sanitizing and removing mold, but it should be used carefully. Run a hot cycle with diluted bleach, then follow up with a rinse cycle to clear any residue.
Check your washer’s manual first, as some manufacturers recommend against bleach or suggest specific dilution ratios.
Does the type of detergent affect washing machine odor?
High-efficiency detergents are formulated to produce fewer suds and leave less residue. Using a non-HE detergent in an HE machine can lead to excess buildup and odor issues.
Powder detergents can also leave more residue than liquid versions, so choosing the right type for your machine can make a difference.
Wrapping Up
Keeping your washing machine fresh doesn’t require a lot of effort—just a few consistent habits.
Letting the drum air out, wiping down seals, and using the right amount of detergent can go a long way.
