How To Clean A Smelly Washing Machine A Step-by-Step Guide

Jul 20, 2025 by ADMIN 59 views

Is your washing machine leaving your clothes smelling less than fresh? Don't worry, you're not alone! A smelly washing machine is a common problem, but luckily, it's usually an easy fix. In this article, we'll walk you through how to clean a smelly washing machine and get it back to its fresh-smelling best. We'll cover everything from why your washing machine might smell in the first place to step-by-step instructions for cleaning both top-load and front-load washers. So, let's dive in and get that washing machine sparkling!

Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?

Before we jump into cleaning a smelly washing machine, let's understand why the smell is there in the first place. Washing machines, especially high-efficiency (HE) models, are designed to use less water. While this is great for saving water and energy, it can also create an environment where bacteria, mold, and mildew thrive. These little guys are the usual suspects behind that funky smell. Here's a breakdown of the common causes:

Soap Scum and Residue: Detergents, fabric softeners, and even hard water can leave behind residue that builds up over time. This residue provides a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
Mold and Mildew Growth: The warm, damp environment inside your washing machine is the perfect place for mold and mildew to grow. This is especially true in the gasket (the rubber seal around the door) of front-load washers and in the dispensers of both top-load and front-load machines.
Trapped Debris: Lint, hair, dirt, and other debris can get trapped in your washing machine, especially in the drain pump filter. This debris can decompose and create unpleasant odors.
Poor Ventilation: If you keep your washing machine door closed all the time, it can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Leaving the door slightly ajar after each wash helps with ventilation.
Infrequent Cleaning: Simply put, if you don't clean your washing machine regularly, it's more likely to develop a smell. Regular cleaning is key to preventing odors from forming.

Think of your washing machine as a dish you use every day. You wouldn't let food scraps sit in a dish for weeks without washing it, right? The same principle applies to your washing machine. Leftover detergent, dirt, and moisture create the perfect environment for unwanted smells. So, now that we understand the why, let's move on to the how.

Preparing to Clean Your Smelly Washing Machine

Okay, guys, before we get started, let's gather our supplies and do a little prep work. You'll need a few common household items, and the whole process is pretty straightforward. Think of it as a spring cleaning session for your appliance! Here's what you'll need:

Cleaning Solutions: You have a couple of options here. White vinegar and baking soda are natural and effective cleaning agents. You can also use a commercial washing machine cleaner, which you can find at most grocery stores or home improvement stores. If you're using a commercial cleaner, be sure to follow the instructions on the label.
Microfiber Cloths or Sponges: These will be your best friends for wiping down surfaces and getting into those nooks and crannies.
Old Toothbrush: An old toothbrush is perfect for scrubbing tight spaces, like the detergent dispenser and the gasket.
Rubber Gloves: Protecting your hands is always a good idea, especially when dealing with cleaning solutions.
Screwdriver (Optional): You might need a screwdriver to remove the detergent dispenser or access the drain pump filter, depending on your washing machine model. Check your owner's manual for specific instructions.

Once you've gathered your supplies, it's time to prep your washing machine. Here's what you need to do:

Empty the Washing Machine: Make sure there are no clothes inside. This might seem obvious, but it's worth mentioning!
Unplug the Washing Machine: Safety first! Unplugging the machine will prevent any accidental starts while you're cleaning.
Check the Owner's Manual: Your owner's manual may have specific cleaning instructions for your model. It's always a good idea to consult it before you start.

With your supplies gathered and your washing machine prepped, you're ready to tackle the cleaning process. Let's get that smelly washing machine fresh and clean!

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Top-Load Washing Machine

Alright, let's get down to business and clean that smelly top-load washing machine! Top-load washers are generally easier to clean than front-load washers, but they still need some TLC to keep them smelling fresh. We'll go through each step, making sure we hit all the key areas.

Step 1: Clean the Dispensers

First things first, let's tackle the dispensers. These little compartments can harbor a surprising amount of detergent residue and grime. Here's how to clean them:

Remove the Dispensers: Most top-load washing machines have removable dispensers for detergent, fabric softener, and bleach. Check your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to remove them.
Soak the Dispensers: Fill a sink or bucket with warm, soapy water. Add about a cup of white vinegar to the water for extra cleaning power. Submerge the dispensers in the solution and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This will help loosen any buildup.
Scrub the Dispensers: After soaking, use an old toothbrush or a small scrub brush to scrub away any remaining residue. Pay attention to any nooks and crannies where grime might be hiding.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse the dispensers thoroughly with clean water and let them air dry completely before putting them back in the washing machine.

Step 2: Clean the Washing Machine Tub

Now, let's move on to the main event: cleaning the washing machine tub. This is where the majority of the odor-causing bacteria and mold can reside.

Run a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar: Pour 4 cups of white vinegar directly into the washing machine drum. Select the hottest water setting and the largest load size. Run a complete wash cycle. The hot water and vinegar will help to loosen and dissolve any buildup in the tub and hoses.
Run a Cleaning Cycle with Baking Soda: After the vinegar cycle is complete, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda into the drum. Run another complete wash cycle on the hottest water setting and largest load size. Baking soda helps to absorb odors and further clean the machine.

Step 3: Wipe Down the Interior

Once the cleaning cycles are done, it's time to give the interior of the washing machine a good wipe-down.

Use a Microfiber Cloth: Dampen a microfiber cloth with a mixture of warm water and white vinegar (or a commercial washing machine cleaner). Wipe down the entire interior of the washing machine, including the drum, the agitator (if your machine has one), and the underside of the lid.
Pay Attention to the Top Rim: The top rim of the washing machine tub is a common spot for grime buildup. Use your microfiber cloth or a sponge to scrub this area thoroughly.

Step 4: Clean the Exterior

Don't forget about the exterior of your washing machine! A clean exterior not only looks better but also helps prevent dust and dirt from getting inside.

Wipe Down the Exterior: Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the exterior of the washing machine, including the control panel, the sides, and the top.
Dry the Exterior: Use a clean, dry cloth to dry the exterior of the washing machine. This will help prevent water spots.

Step 5: Leave the Lid Open

This is a crucial step in preventing future odors. After cleaning, leave the washing machine lid open for a few hours (or even overnight) to allow the interior to air out completely. This will help prevent moisture buildup and the growth of mold and mildew.

And there you have it! You've successfully cleaned your top-load washing machine. Now, let's move on to cleaning front-load washers, which require a slightly different approach.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Front-Load Washing Machine

Front-load washing machines are known for their efficiency, but they can also be prone to developing odors if not cleaned properly. The good news is that cleaning a smelly front-load washing machine is totally doable! It just requires a little extra attention to certain areas, like the gasket.

Step 1: Clean the Dispensers

Just like with top-load washers, the dispensers in front-load machines can accumulate detergent residue and grime. Let's get them sparkling clean:

Remove the Dispensers: Front-load washing machine dispensers are typically located in a drawer at the front of the machine. Check your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to remove them. They usually slide out with a bit of a tug or by pressing a release button.
Soak the Dispensers: Fill a sink or bucket with warm, soapy water. Add about a cup of white vinegar to the water. Submerge the dispensers in the solution and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
Scrub the Dispensers: Use an old toothbrush or a small scrub brush to scrub away any remaining residue. Pay special attention to any small compartments or crevices.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse the dispensers thoroughly with clean water and let them air dry completely before putting them back in the washing machine.

Step 2: Clean the Gasket

The gasket, that rubber seal around the door, is a prime spot for mold and mildew growth in front-load washers. It's essential to clean it regularly to prevent odors.

Inspect the Gasket: Carefully examine the gasket for any signs of mold or mildew. Look for dark spots or a slimy texture.
Mix a Cleaning Solution: In a spray bottle, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. You can also use a commercial mildew cleaner, but be sure to follow the instructions on the label.
Spray the Gasket: Spray the cleaning solution liberally onto the gasket, paying particular attention to any areas with mold or mildew.
Scrub the Gasket: Use a microfiber cloth or an old toothbrush to scrub the gasket thoroughly. You may need to peel back the folds of the gasket to reach all areas. This is where that old toothbrush really comes in handy!
Wipe and Dry: Wipe the gasket clean with a damp microfiber cloth and then dry it thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth.

Step 3: Clean the Washing Machine Tub

Now, let's tackle the washing machine tub itself.

Run a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar: Pour 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the washing machine drum. Select the washing machine's cleaning cycle (if it has one) or the hottest water setting and the largest load size. Run a complete wash cycle.
Run a Cleaning Cycle with Baking Soda: After the vinegar cycle is complete, sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drum. Run another complete wash cycle on the hottest water setting and largest load size.

Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior

After the cleaning cycles, give the interior of the washing machine a good wipe-down.

Use a Microfiber Cloth: Dampen a microfiber cloth with a mixture of warm water and white vinegar (or a commercial washing machine cleaner). Wipe down the entire interior of the washing machine, including the drum and the door.

Step 5: Clean the Drain Pump Filter

The drain pump filter is designed to catch lint, hair, and other debris. If it gets clogged, it can cause odors. It's a good idea to clean it every few months.

Locate the Drain Pump Filter: The drain pump filter is usually located at the bottom front of the washing machine, behind a small access panel. Check your owner's manual for the exact location.
Prepare for Water Drainage: Place a shallow pan or a towel on the floor in front of the access panel to catch any water that may spill out.
Open the Access Panel: Open the access panel and carefully unscrew the drain pump filter. Be prepared for some water to come out.
Clean the Filter: Remove any lint, hair, or debris from the filter. Rinse the filter thoroughly with clean water.
Replace the Filter: Screw the drain pump filter back into place and close the access panel.

Step 6: Leave the Door Ajar

This is super important for front-load washers! After cleaning, leave the washing machine door ajar to allow the interior to air out completely. This will help prevent moisture buildup and the growth of mold and mildew.

You've done it! Your front-load washing machine is now clean and fresh. But remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping it that way.

Tips for Preventing Smelly Washing Machines

Okay, you've cleaned your washing machine, and it smells fantastic! But let's keep it that way, shall we? Prevention is always better than cure, so here are some tips to help you prevent your washing machine from smelling bad in the first place:

Use the Right Amount of Detergent: Overusing detergent can lead to buildup and odors. Follow the detergent manufacturer's instructions and use the recommended amount for your load size and water hardness.
Use HE Detergent (for HE Machines): If you have a high-efficiency washing machine, be sure to use HE (high-efficiency) detergent. HE detergents are formulated to produce less suds, which helps prevent residue buildup.
Avoid Fabric Softener: Fabric softener can leave a waxy residue that contributes to odor buildup. Consider using dryer sheets or wool dryer balls instead.
Run Regular Cleaning Cycles: Make it a habit to run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a commercial washing machine cleaner every month or two. This will help prevent buildup and odors from forming.
Leave the Door Ajar: After each wash, leave the washing machine door ajar to allow the interior to air out completely. This is especially important for front-load washers.
Wipe Down the Gasket Regularly (for Front-Load Washers): After each wash, wipe down the gasket with a clean, dry cloth to remove any moisture or debris.
Clean the Dispensers Regularly: Clean the dispensers every month or two to prevent detergent residue buildup.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter Regularly (for Front-Load Washers): Clean the drain pump filter every few months to remove any trapped lint, hair, or debris.
Remove Wet Clothes Promptly: Don't leave wet clothes in the washing machine for extended periods. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: Make sure your laundry room is well-ventilated to help prevent moisture buildup.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your washing machine smelling fresh and clean for years to come. A little maintenance goes a long way!

When to Call a Professional

While most washing machine odor issues can be resolved with regular cleaning, there are times when it's best to call in a professional. If you've tried cleaning your washing machine thoroughly and the smell persists, or if you notice any of the following, it's time to seek professional help:

Persistent Odors: If the odor doesn't go away after cleaning, there may be a deeper issue, such as a problem with the drain pump or the washing machine's internal components.
Water Leaks: If you notice any water leaks from your washing machine, it's important to address them promptly to prevent further damage and potential mold growth.
Unusual Noises: If your washing machine is making unusual noises, such as loud banging or grinding sounds, it could indicate a mechanical problem that needs professional attention.
Mold or Mildew Growth You Can't Reach: If you see mold or mildew growth in areas that you can't easily reach or clean, it's best to call a professional to ensure it's properly removed.
You're Not Comfortable with DIY Repairs: If you're not comfortable with DIY repairs or if you're unsure about how to proceed, it's always best to consult a professional to avoid causing further damage to your washing machine.

A qualified appliance repair technician can diagnose the problem and provide the necessary repairs to get your washing machine back in top working order. Don't hesitate to call for help if you need it!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! You now know how to clean a smelly washing machine and, more importantly, how to prevent those smells from coming back. Whether you have a top-load or a front-load washer, regular cleaning and maintenance are key to keeping it fresh and odor-free. Remember to clean the dispensers, the gasket (if you have a front-load washer), and the tub regularly. And don't forget to leave the door ajar after each wash to allow the interior to air out.

By following the tips and steps outlined in this article, you can say goodbye to that smelly washing machine and hello to fresh, clean laundry! And if you ever encounter a persistent odor or a more serious issue, don't hesitate to call a professional. Happy washing!