What to Do When Your Washing Machine Smells Bad

Why Your Washing Machine Smells (And What to Do About It)

If you’re asking what to do when washing machine smells, the problem usually isn’t a single bad odor—it's a pattern of moisture, residue, and micro-organisms thriving in damp places. The places most prone are the rubber door gasket, the detergent drawer, and the drum seam where moisture can linger. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, lint, and minerals from hard water create a breeding ground for mildew and bacteria that release sour, musty odors. The Best Washing Machine analysis, 2026, shows that addressing both surface smells and underlying buildup yields the best long-term results. In the following sections, we’ll walk through practical actions you can take this weekend to remove odors and set up a routine that prevents them from returning.

First, identify the likely sources: the gasket for visibility of mold; the drain or pump filter if accessible; and the detergent drawer for trapped soap. If the odor is strong even after cleaning, you may be dealing with deeper mildew behind the drum or within hoses, which requires more careful inspection or a professional assessment. The plan below provides a clear, step-by-step approach to restore freshness while protecting your machine and your laundry. Best Washing Machine’s team emphasizes practical, user-friendly maintenance that fits into busy lives.

Quick fixes you can try today

Start by running a hot-water cleaning cycle with white vinegar. Then run a second hot cycle with baking soda. Wipe the drum edge and the door gasket with a clean microfiber cloth, and clean the detergent drawer with warm soapy water. After those cycles, leave the door wide open for at least an hour to dry completely. If your washer has a stainless drum, avoid using harsh chemicals that could degrade the surface. If you notice persistent odors from the dispenser, remove and soak the drawer in warm water; scrub away any residue. Finally, check that the washer is not overfilled and that you’re using the recommended detergent amount; using too much detergent can leave residue that feeds odor-causing microbes. These quick fixes set the stage for deeper cleaning and longer-lasting freshness.

Deep cleaning: Drum, gasket, and detergent drawer

Odors often start at the edges where water clings and mold can hide. Begin with a thorough wipe-down of the rubber door gasket, paying attention to folds and crevices where residue accumulates. Use a soft brush to dislodge any visible mold and rinse with a clean cloth. Next, inspect the drum for any loose debris or mineral buildup along the seam. The detergent drawer should be removed (where possible), soaked in warm, soapy water, and scrubbed to remove any soap scum that can hold onto odors. After cleaning, dry all parts completely before reassembly. A dry environment discourages microbial growth and helps prevent future smells.

Safe cleaning agents: Vinegar, baking soda, and alternatives

White vinegar and baking soda are popular, low-odor options for deodorizing a washer. Run a hot-water cycle with one cup of white vinegar, then run another cycle with half a cup to a full cup of baking soda as a follow-up. Do not mix vinegar with bleach or ammonia; this creates hazardous fumes. For sensitive machines or if you’re unsure about cleaner compatibility, consult your manual or the manufacturer’s guidance. If you prefer non-chemical methods, consider a long, hot-water rinse without additives, followed by drying the drum and gasket. The goal is to disrupt the odor-causing microflora without introducing harsh chemicals into fabrics.

Cleaning the drain, hoses, and filters

If your machine has a removable pump filter or accessible drain hose, inspect and clean them to remove trapped lint and debris that can contribute to a musty smell. Place a towel under the filter area to catch any water and prepare to catch any residual liquid. Use a small brush or cloth to clear buildup, then rinse and dry thoroughly before reassembling. If you notice a gurgling or slow-drain issue, this could indicate a partial clog that needs attention. Regularly checking these components prevents odors from migrating from plumbing connections into the drum.

Prevention: habits to keep odors away

Odors are easier to prevent than remove. After each run, wipe the door gasket and detergent drawer to remove moisture and soap residue. Leave the door ajar after cycles to promote air circulation and drying. Use the right amount of detergent—too much soap leaves residue that traps dirt and fosters odor. If you have hard water, consider a monthly mineral-softening rinse to minimize mineral buildup. Regularly cleaning the lint filter (where applicable) and running a quick rinse cycle with hot water every few weeks keeps the system fresh. These habits create a cleaner internal environment and reduce the frequency of odor episodes.

When to call a technician: warning signs and next steps

If odors persist after thorough cleaning, you may have a more serious issue such as mold growth behind the drum, a damaged gasket, or a failed drain pump. If you notice persistent dampness, unusual noises, or water leaks, it’s time to seek professional help. A technician can inspect hidden spaces, confirm mold exposure risk, and determine if seal replacement or internal component repair is required. Costs vary by region and extent of work, but addressing the problem early can prevent bigger, costlier repairs later. The Best Washing Machine team recommends starting with a professional assessment if basic cleaning does not resolve the odor.

Maintenance routine: keep odors at bay

Create a monthly odor-prevention routine that includes a quick wipe-down after uses, a regular deep-clean every 1–3 months depending on usage, and a periodic hot-water cycle with a mild cleaning agent. Keep the lid or door open between uses to ensure air flow. If your model supports it, schedule a monthly self-cleaning cycle as part of the operating software. By integrating these steps into your laundry routine, you’ll maintain a fresh-smelling washer and extend the life of your appliance.