Your washing machine is supposed to leave clothes fresh and clean—so what happens when it starts smelling worse than your dirty laundry? That musty, sour, or even sewage-like odor isn’t just unpleasant; it’s a sign of buildup that could affect your machine’s performance. But don’t worry—after years of repairing appliances, I’ve seen this issue countless times, and the good news is, it’s easy to fix.
What Causes Washing Machine Odors?
In most cases, unpleasant smells come from a buildup of bacteria, mildew, limescale, and soap scum—or a combination of all four. If you frequently use cool wash cycles to save energy, your machine may not be generating enough heat to eliminate residue and kill bacteria that feed on it. Fortunately, you don’t need to switch to hot washes every time—simple maintenance can keep your washer odor-free.
How to Get Rid of the Smell in Your Washing Machine
That unpleasant odor is likely coming from areas that are easy to clean. Seals, gaskets, dispensers, and the drum are the usual culprits. With the right tools and techniques, you can restore freshness without much effort.
1. Clean the Seals and Gaskets
Front-loading washers, in particular, have rubber seals that trap moisture and detergent residue, making them a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
✔ Use hot, soapy water and an old rag to wipe away grime.
✔ For stubborn buildup, scrub with white vinegar and an old toothbrush.
🚫 Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools like steel wool, as they can damage the seals.
2. Deep Clean the Dispensers
Most modern washing machines have removable detergent, bleach, and fabric softener dispensers. Over time, soap residue accumulates, creating the perfect environment for bacteria.
✔ Remove the dispensers and soak them in hot water.
✔ Use a toothbrush to scrub away any remaining buildup.
✔ Check your user manual—some dispensers are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
3. Flush Out the Drum
Your washing machine’s drum is the largest component, but luckily, it can clean itself with a simple DIY method:
✔ Mix ¼ cup of baking soda with ¼ cup of water and pour it into the detergent dispenser.
✔ Add 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.
✔ Run a hot wash cycle with no laundry inside.
This powerful combination breaks down soap scum, kills bacteria, and removes lingering odors.
4. Prevent Future Odors
Once your washer is fresh again, a few simple habits can keep it that way:
✔ Use the right detergent—too much soap creates excess suds, which leads to residue buildup.
✔ Run an occasional hot wash cycle to flush out bacteria and detergent remnants.
✔ Leave the door or lid open after each use to allow moisture to evaporate.
What If Your Washer Smells Like Sewage?
A musty or moldy odor is one thing, but if your washer smells like sewage, the issue might not be with the machine—it could be the drain.
✔ Pull the washer away from the wall and detach the drain hose from the standpipe.
✔ If the smell worsens, the problem is likely in the drain.
✔ Try pouring a baking soda and vinegar solution down the standpipe to break up any buildup.
✔ If the smell persists, it may be time to call in a professional.
Still Having Trouble? Call Delta Appliance®
If DIY cleaning doesn’t solve the issue, there may be a deeper problem requiring expert attention. At Delta Appliance®, we’ve spent years diagnosing and repairing washing machines, and we know exactly how to get yours running fresh and clean again. Book an appointment today, and we’ll have your washer back to its best in no time.
🚨 Our technicians arrive with fully stocked service vehicles to handle most repairs in a single visit. If a special part is needed, a follow-up appointment may be required.
