How to Get Smell Out of Washing Machine: 5 Easy Steps

A smelly washing machine isn’t just unpleasant—it can also contaminate your laundry. If you’ve noticed a foul odor every time you open your washing machine door, even after running a cycle, this guide will walk you through how to get your appliance smelling fresh and clean again.

Don’t worry, getting rid of that smell isn’t as hard as you think. Just follow the five simple steps outlined below and it will be gone in no time.

Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?

Before we dive into the steps, it’s helpful to know what’s causing that odor. Washing machines are, ironically, prone to getting dirty because they deal with detergent residue, fabric softener, lint, and grime. Combine this with moisture, and you’ve got the perfect environment for mold, mildew, and bacteria to thrive.

Common culprits include:

• Detergent buildup: Using too much soap leaves residue behind.
• Moisture: Leaving the door closed traps water and humidity.
• Dirty gaskets: The rubber seal around the door can collect grime.
• Clogged filters or hoses: Dirt can accumulate over time.

How To Remove Bad Smells From a Washing Machine

Follow these five easy steps.

Step 1: Clean the Dispenser Drawer

The dispenser drawer—where you pour detergent and fabric softener—is a good place to start as it’s a common spot for residue and grime buildup.

Here’s how to clean it:

1. Remove the drawer. Most machines let you pull it out completely. Check your manual if you’re not sure how.
2. Soak it. Fill a sink or basin with warm water and some vinegar, then let the drawer soak for 15–20 minutes.
3. Scrub away residue. Use a toothbrush to scrub the drawer and where it slots in the machine.
4. Dry it well. Make sure everything you’ve cleaned is completely dry before putting it back.

Step 2: Clean the Gasket (Front-Load Machines)

Next, if you’ve got a front-load washer, the gasket (the rubber seal around the door) should be cleaned. It’s a notorious place for mold, as moisture and grime can get easily trapped inside it.

Here’s how to clean the gasket:

1. Inspect it. Pull the gasket back gently and check for any visible mold, lint, or detergent residue.
2. Wipe it down. Use a mix of vinegar and water (or a store-bought mold cleaner) and a soft cloth to scrub the gasket. Don’t forget to get into all the nooks and crannies.
3. Dry it thoroughly. Once clean, leave the door open for a while to let it air out.

Step 3: Clear the Drain Filter and Hose

Many people forget about the drain filter and hose, but these are prime spots for blockages which can lead to unpleasant odors.

Here’s how to clear them:

1. Locate the drain filter. It’s usually found at the bottom of the machine, behind a small panel. (Check the manual if you’re not sure.)
2. Place a towel underneath. Water might spill out when you remove the filter.
3. Clean the filter. Take out the filter and rinse it under warm water. Use a brush to remove stubborn dirt.
4. Check the hose. If you can, inspect the drain hose for blockages or odors. Using a pipe cleaner and running some hot water through it can help flush it out.

Step 4: Give the Drum a Deep Clean

Now it’s time to deep-clean the drum. This includes running a couple of cleaning cycles and giving the drum a thorough scrubbing.

Here’s how to clean the drum:

1. Run a cleaning cycle. Use a hot water cycle and add 2 cups of white vinegar directly to the drum while it’s empty. Vinegar is excellent for breaking down soap scum and killing mold and bacteria.
2. Scrub the drum. After the cycle is done, wipe down the drum with a cloth dipped in a vinegar-water mix, removing any remaining residues.
3. Use baking soda. Sprinkle about half a cup of baking soda in the drum and run another cycle on the hottest setting. This will help neutralize odors and leave your washer smelling fresh.

Step 5: Clean the Outside of the Machine

Now that everything on the inside is clean, you can wipe down the exterior of your washing machine for a sparkling finish.

How to clean the exterior:

1. Wipe down the exterior. Use a damp cloth and an all-purpose cleaner or vinegar solution to clean the outside of the machine. Pay special attention to the buttons and door handles.
2. Clean the vents. If your machine has air vents, make sure they’re dust-free. Use a soft brush or vacuum attachment to clean them.

How To Prevent Bad Smells From Coming Back

Now that your washing machine should be smelling better, here’s how you can keep it that way:

1. Use less detergent: More soap doesn’t mean cleaner clothes. Stick to the recommended amount to avoid buildup.
2. Use the right detergent: If you have a high-efficiency washer, make sure you’re using HE detergent to prevent excess suds.
3. Leave the door open: After every wash, leave the door slightly ajar to let the drum air out.
4. Dry the gasket: Wipe the rubber seal dry after each wash to prevent mold from forming.
5. Run regular cleaning cycles: Every month, run an empty hot cycle with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner.
6. Don’t let wet clothes sit: Remove laundry as soon as the cycle finishes—don’t let damp clothes sit and create a moist environment.

Summary

Getting rid of a smelly washing machine doesn’t have to be a headache. By following these five easy steps and adopting a few good habits, you’ll not only remove odors but help keep your washer running smoothly for years to come.

If, despite trying everything in this guide, your washing machine still smells, it’s recommended that you call a professional. A technician can inspect it for deeper issues, such as damaged internal components or hidden mold.