Town Appliance Official Blog

Laundry day should leave your clothes smelling fresh and clean, but sometimes an unpleasant odor can permeate your laundry room, and it might just be coming from your washing machine. So, why does your washer smell, and what can you do about it? 

In this guide, we'll explore the common causes of washer odor, discuss the differences between front-load and top-load washer odors, provide effective solutions to eliminate the smell, and offer preventative measures to keep your washing machine smelling as fresh as your laundry.

Common Causes of Washer Odor

1. Soap Scum Buildup: Over time, detergent can leave behind a residue called soap scum. This residue can accumulate in your machine's drum and seals, leading to a foul odor. Soap scum can also trap dirt and debris, making it more difficult for your washer to clean clothes effectively.
2. Detergent Dispenser: The detergent dispenser drawer can trap moisture, creating an environment for mold and mildew to thrive. This can result in a musty smell. Additionally, the detergent dispenser can become clogged with the detergent residue, which can also lead to odor problems.
3. Standing Water: Water left in the drum or drain trap after a wash cycle can become stagnant and emit an unpleasant odor. This is especially common in front-load washers, which tend to retain more water than top-load washers.
4. Mold and Mildew: Dark, damp areas in your washing machine are breeding grounds for mold and mildew, which can produce a musty or even a rotten egg smell. Mold and mildew can grow on the rubber door gasket, detergent dispenser, and other areas of the machine that are exposed to water and heat.
5. Detergent Residue: Excess detergent or using the wrong type of detergent can lead to residue buildup in your machine, contributing to odor issues. Detergent residue can attract dirt and bacteria, and it can also make it difficult for your washer to drain properly.
6. Wet Clothes Left Inside: Leaving wet clothes in the washer for an extended period can promote mold growth and result in a musty smell. It's important to remove clothes from the washer as soon as possible after the cycle is finished.
7. Dirty Washer Filter: The washer filter can trap lint, hair, and other debris, which can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. It's important to clean the washer filter regularly to prevent odor problems.
8. Pet Hair and Dander: Pet hair and dander can also accumulate in your washing machine and contribute to odor problems. If you have pets, be sure to clean the washer filter regularly and run a hot cycle with vinegar after washing pet bedding.

Differences in Front Load and Top Load Washer Odors

Front-load and top-load washers can experience odor issues, but the causes may differ:

• Front Load Washers: These machines are prone to odor problems because water can accumulate in the rubber gasket around the door. Mold and mildew often develop here. Additionally, front-loaders have airtight seals that can trap moisture.

• Top Load Washers: While top-load washers are less likely to have issues with door gaskets, they can still suffer from detergent residue and standing water problems. The agitator and drum design can create spaces for water and residue to linger.

Effective Solutions to Eliminate Washer Odor

Now that you understand the causes, here are some effective solutions to banish that washer odor:

1. Clean the Detergent Dispenser: Regularly remove and clean the detergent dispenser drawer. Allow it to dry thoroughly before reinserting.
2. Run a Cleaning Cycle: Many washing machines have a self-cleaning cycle. Follow your manufacturer's instructions to run this cycle with hot water and a washing machine cleaner or white vinegar.
3. Use the Right Detergent: Use HE detergent for high-efficiency washing machines and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the correct amount.
4. Inspect the Drum: Check for foreign objects or debris inside the drum that might contribute to odors.
5.  Leave the Door Open: After each wash, prop the door open slightly to allow moisture to escape and deter mold growth.
6. Regularly Clean the Seal: Clean the rubber gasket around the door with a mixture of warm water and white vinegar to remove mold and mildew.
7.  Clean the Drain Trap: Front-loaders have a drain trap that can become clogged. Consult your manual to locate and clean it.

Preventative Measures

To prevent future washer odor issues, consider these preventative measures:

• Measure Detergent Accurately: Use the right amount of detergent according to load size and water hardness.

• Switch to a Different Type of Detergent: Liquid detergents often leave less residue than powdered ones.

• Use Warm Water: Wash clothes in warm water occasionally to help dissolve detergent and prevent buildup.

• Empty the Washer Promptly: Remove wet clothes promptly after the cycle to prevent mold growth.

• Regular Maintenance: Perform routine cleaning and maintenance, including inspecting and cleaning the drain trap.

• Invest in an UltraFresh Vent System: Some washers come with advanced features like the UltraFresh Vent System, designed to reduce mold and mildew growth.

Indeed, tackling the issue of a smelly washing machine involves understanding the common causes, whether it's soap scum buildup, mold and mildew growth, or detergent residue. By following effective cleaning methods and adopting preventative measures, you can keep your washing machine smelling fresh and maintain the cleanliness of your laundry. And when it comes to upgrading your laundry appliances or finding the perfect accessories for your washer and dryer, remember that Town Appliances is your trusted partner.