**Is your laundry room smelling a bit funky these days? It might not be your dirty socks – it could be your washing machine!**

Nobody wants to pull “clean” clothes out of a washer that smells like a swamp. Luckily, banishing that bad washing machine odor is usually super easy, and we’re gonna show you how, with some at-home tips from your friends at Sardis Appliance Repair.

## Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?

That funky smell coming from your washing machine is most likely caused by a build-up of gunk. That’s a technical term, of course. The main culprits: mold, mildew, and bacteria that thrive in damp, dark environments. These little freeloaders love to feast on leftover detergent, fabric softener, and even bits of dirt and debris from your clothes.

High-efficiency (HE) washers, both front-load and top-load, are especially prone to smells. These are great and use much less water than older models, but this means there’s less water to flush away all that gunk. Over time, residue builds up in the drum, door seal (especially in front-loaders), detergent dispenser, and even the drain hose, creating a perfect breeding ground for stink.

## Banishing the Stink: Cleaning Your Washing Machine

Getting rid of that “eau de washing machine” is easier than you think! Regular cleaning is key to preventing smells from taking over, but don’t worry – even if it’s been a while, we can usually get things back to fresh. This is all about tackling the root cause of the problem: that nasty build-up. We’ll look at some different strategies, from simple everyday habits to deep-cleaning power moves.

### Everyday Habits for a Fresh Washer

The best way to fight washing machine smells is to prevent them in the first place! These simple habits can make a huge difference.

• Leave the Door Open: After each load, leave the washer door (and detergent drawer, if you have one) ajar. This allows air to circulate and helps the interior dry out, preventing mold and mildew from setting up camp.
• Wipe Down the Seal: If you have a front-load washer, give the rubber door seal (also called a gasket) a quick wipe-down after each use. That’s prime real estate for mildew to build up!
• Use the Right Detergent: Use the correct type and amount of detergent for your machine. HE washers need HE detergent, and using too much of *any* detergent can leave behind residue.
• Don’t Overload: Don’t cram too many clothes into the washer. This prevents proper cleaning and rinsing, and can contribute to residue build-up.
• Remove Clean Clothes Promptly: Leaving wet clothes in the washer for too long is asking for trouble. Get them out as soon as the cycle is done.

### Deep Cleaning Your Washing Machine: The Vinegar and Baking Soda Method

Sometimes, everyday habits aren’t enough, especially if the washing machine smells musty already. Time for a deep clean! The classic combo of vinegar and baking soda is a natural, effective way to tackle odors and residue.

• Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need white vinegar, baking soda, a spray bottle, and a microfiber cloth or sponge.
• The Vinegar Wash: Add two cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser. Run a hot water cycle on the longest setting. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer.
• The Baking Soda Scrub: Once the vinegar cycle is complete, sprinkle about half a cup of baking soda directly into the drum. Run another hot water cycle, again on the longest setting. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that helps scrub away residue.
• Wipe Down the Interior: While the second cycle is running, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior of the washer, paying special attention to the door seal (front-loaders), the top rim of the drum (top-loaders), and the detergent dispenser.
• Clean the Dispenser:If your detergent dispenser is removable, take it out and wash it thoroughly with hot, soapy water.

### Using a Commercial Washing Machine Cleaner

If you prefer a pre-made solution, commercial washing machine cleaners like Affresh are a great option. They’re specifically formulated to break down residue and eliminate odors. They are simple and effective to use.

• Follow the Instructions. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Usually, you’ll add a tablet or a measured amount of liquid to the drum or dispenser and run a hot water cycle.
• Consider the Type of Washer. Some cleaners are formulated specifically for front-load or top-load washers.
• Repeat as Needed. You can use a washing machine cleaner monthly or whenever you notice a washing machine odor.
• Leave the Door Open. Ensure to always leave the washer propped open after using a cleaner.
• Consider Preventative Measures. Don’t forget to put in place all of those day to day preventative measures.

### Cleaning Your Washing Machine with Bleach (Use with Caution!)

Bleach is a powerful disinfectant, but it can be harsh. Use it sparingly and only when other methods haven’t worked, and *never* mix it with vinegar (this creates dangerous chlorine gas!). This method is almost never actually necessary, but it might be useful.

• Check Your Manual. First, check your washing machine’s manual to make sure bleach is safe to use. Some manufacturers advise against it.
• Dilute the Bleach. Add one cup of *liquid* chlorine bleach to the bleach dispenser. Never pour bleach directly into the drum.
• Run a Hot Cycle.Run a hot water cycle on the longest setting.
• Run an Extra Rinse Cycle. To ensure all traces of bleach are removed, run an extra rinse cycle with plain water.
• Air out your house. Open windows to let out and replace the air.

## Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get rid of a bad smell in my washing machine?

The best way to get rid of a bad smell in your washing machine is to address the root cause: the buildup of mold, mildew, and bacteria. Start by running a cleaning cycle with white vinegar and baking soda. Add two cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser and run a hot water cycle on the longest setting, then sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot cycle. You can also use a commercial washing machine cleaner, like Affresh, following the product instructions. Finally, if nothing else works, consider the bleach method but use it with caution.

Why does my front load washer smell?

Front-load washers are particularly prone to smells because their design, while water-efficient, can trap moisture and residue. The rubber door seal, or gasket, is a prime spot for mold and mildew to grow. To combat this, always leave the door open after each use to allow the interior to dry. Also, wipe down the door seal regularly. Regularly cleaning the washer with vinegar and baking soda or a washing machine cleaner will also help.

My washing machine smells like rotten eggs – what’s going on?

A rotten egg smell usually indicates a problem with the drain hose or the plumbing. Bacteria can build up in the drain hose, causing that sulfurous odor. Try cleaning the drain hose (check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to access it). If the smell persists, it could be a plumbing issue, and you might need to call a plumber or contact us at Sardis Appliance Repair for washing machine repair in [your city/region].

## Wrapping Up

A stinky washing machine is a common problem. By understanding the causes and taking steps to prevent and eliminate odors, you can keep your laundry smelling fresh and clean. Remember that regular maintenance is key!

If you’ve tried all the cleaning methods and your washing machine *still* smells bad, or if you’re dealing with other washer problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. At Sardis Appliance Repair, we’re experts in washing machine repair, and we’re always happy to help. We are proud to provide the area with excellent washing machine maintenance!