Finally Rid of Washing Machine Smell

That lingering musty smell drifting from your washing machine isn't just annoying – it’s a sign that something is growing in there. A persistent washing machine smell is almost always down to a mix of moisture, warmth, and trapped gunk, which creates the perfect environment for mould and bacteria to thrive.

What Causes That Washing Machine Smell?

To get rid of the smell for good, you first need to pinpoint the source. That damp, sealed drum can quickly become a five-star resort for unwelcome guests. The main offenders are nearly always mould and mildew. These fungi love dark, damp spots, and the rubber door seal on a front-loader is their favourite place to set up camp. This gasket traps a little water after every wash. If it's not wiped dry, spores take hold and release that classic funky, musty odour.

The Buildup You Can’t See

It’s not just the mould you can spot. A sneakier problem is the slimy residue left behind by detergents and fabric softeners. If you use too much of either, you create a biofilm on the inside of the drum and hoses. This sticky layer is a magnet for dirt, skin cells, and bacteria from your laundry, creating a constant source of bad smells. If that sounds familiar, we have a detailed guide on what to do when your washing machine smells like sewage.

Here in the UK, how we do our laundry can make things worse. We love our energy-saving low-temperature washes, and while they're great for our bills, they don't always kill off all the bacteria. Regularly washing below 40°C allows germs and grime to accumulate inside the machine, leading to stubborn smells.

Common Odour Culprits at a Glance

Let's quickly break down the most common sources of smells in your washing machine and where you should focus your cleaning efforts.

Knowing the 'why' is the crucial first step. Now you're ready for the 'how'.

How to Deep Clean a Smelly Washing Machine

It's time to banish that stubborn odour for good. This isn't just a quick wipe-down. We're going deep to tackle the hidden gunk, mould, and slimy residue causing the problem. You don't need aggressive chemicals—just a bit of elbow grease and the right technique.

Tackling Front-Loading Machines

Front-loaders are great for saving energy and water, but their airtight design traps moisture, making the rubber door seal and detergent drawer ground zero for nasty smells.

First, tackle the rubber door seal (gasket). Gently peel back the folds. You’ll likely find a grim collection of lint, hair, and slimy black mould. To deal with it, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray inside the gasket, getting into the folds, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, grab an old cloth and wipe it all away. An old toothbrush is perfect for stubborn spots. Once clean, wipe the entire seal dry.

Next is the detergent drawer. Slimy, half-dissolved detergent and fabric softener residue builds up here. Most drawers can be removed completely. Pop it into a basin of warm, soapy water and soak for about 30 minutes. After, use a brush to scrub away all the residue. Before you put it back, wipe the inside of the drawer compartment too.

Running a Sanitising Maintenance Wash

Once you’ve cleaned the accessible parts, it’s time to sanitise the entire system. This is often called a maintenance wash or a service wash, and it cleans the parts you can’t see, like the outer drum and internal hoses.

There are a couple of effective ways to do this:

1. The White Vinegar and Baking Soda Method: Pour about 500ml (two cups) of white vinegar directly into the empty drum. Add half a cup of baking soda to the detergent drawer.
2. Using a Specialised Machine Cleaner: You can buy dedicated washing machine cleaners designed to obliterate limescale and residue. Just follow the instructions.

Whichever you choose, run the machine on its hottest and longest cycle. A 90°C cottons cycle is usually the best bet. For more tips, see our guide on how to clean your washing machine drum.

Simple DIY Maintenance Checks to Perform Now

So, you’ve given the machine a deep clean, but there’s still a stubborn smell. Before calling for help, there are two quick DIY checks that often get to the root of the problem: the filter and the drainage hose.

Locating and Cleaning the Filter

Your washing machine's filter catches lint, tissues, coins, and hair. When it gets clogged, water can't drain properly, leaving stagnant, smelly water in your machine.

On most front-loaders, the filter is behind a small flap on the bottom front corner. Before opening it, lay down old towels and have a shallow tray ready to catch water.

• Open the access panel.
• Unscrew the filter cap anti-clockwise, letting water drain slowly.
• Pull out the filter and clean it with an old toothbrush and warm, soapy water.
• Check the housing for any larger obstructions.
• Screw the filter back in firmly and close the panel.

Inspecting the Drainage Hose

If the filter is clean but the smell lingers, check the drainage hose. This grey pipe connects the machine to a drain. A kink or blockage here traps foul-smelling water. Pull your machine away from the wall to see the hose clearly. Look for any sharp bends or kinks.

If there are no kinks, the blockage might be inside. Disconnect it with a bucket ready for leftover water. Shine a torch down one end to look for blockages. You can often clear a buildup by running warm water through it. Once clear, reconnect the hose securely.

Keeping Your Washing Machine Permanently Fresh

You've done the hard work. Now, the goal is to keep it that way. Preventing that washing machine smell from returning is about building a few simple habits into your laundry routine.

Master Your Detergent Dosage

Using too much detergent is a big culprit. Modern machines use very little water, so they can't rinse away excess suds. This leaves a sticky film inside the drum that feeds odour-causing bacteria. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines on the detergent box; you’ll probably find you need far less than you think.

The Power of Fresh Air

This is the most effective habit: leave the washing machine door open after every wash. It lets air circulate, drying out the drum and rubber seal, which stops mould growth. It’s a zero-effort trick that tackles the main cause of that musty washing machine smell.

Schedule a Monthly Hot Wash

Once a month, run an empty cycle on the hottest setting, usually 90°C. This kills bacteria and melts away greasy residue. To boost its power, add 500ml of white vinegar to the drum or half a cup of baking soda to the detergent drawer.

Don't Let Damp Laundry Linger

Get clean clothes out of the machine as soon as the cycle finishes. A pile of damp laundry creates a humid environment, encouraging mould in the machine and making clothes smell musty. Also, remember to clean the filter regularly. Our guide on how to clean a washing machine filter has easy instructions. Even looking into outdoor laundry ideas for a fresh space can help.

Knowing When to Call an Appliance Repair Expert

You’ve followed all the steps, but that unpleasant smell just won't go away. When a bad smell sticks around despite your best efforts, it’s a sign the problem is more than surface-level grime.

Warning Signs of a Deeper Problem

• A Sewage or Rotten Egg Smell: This often points to a blockage deep in your home's plumbing.
• A Burning Smell: This could be a motor, belt, or wiring issue – a serious fire hazard that needs immediate, professional attention.
• Loud, Unusual Noises: Grinding or clanking can mean a failing pump or worn-out drum bearings.
• Persistent Drainage Failures: If water is still in the drum after you’ve cleared the filter and hose, the drain pump may be failing.

These issues need a qualified engineer. Trying to fix complex internal parts yourself can be dangerous. For peace of mind, it's best to book a repair.

If you've tried everything and the washing machine smell persists, it’s a sign of a deeper issue that needs an expert eye. Don't let a faulty appliance disrupt your home. Go Assist offers fast, reliable, and affordable repairs with brand-certified engineers ready to help. Book your washing machine repair online today and get your appliance back in perfect working order.