Probable Causes and Remedies for Smelly Washing Machines
A smelly washing machine is – unfortunately, a common problem, and an unpleasant surprise in most cases. It might help to know that you’re not alone when it comes to suddenly finding yourself with a load of smelly clothes in front of your washing machine, instead of the expected fresh and clean laundry that usually comes out.
Let’s explore the most common reasons why your appliance might smell, and hopefully we can help you with some solutions based on our years of experience repairing washing machines.
Common Causes of Washing Machine Smells
1. Mould and Mildew Build-Up
- Cause: Mould and mildew growth is promoted by a moist environment. Sometimes water residue is trapped in the door seal, creating the perfect conditions for fungus to thrive. Front-loading washing machines are more prone to this due to their composition.
- Solution: Clean the door seal regularly. You can clean it with a cloth soaked in a water-vinegar mixture or use a store-bought detergent. It’s also important to leave the washing machine open after each use to let moisture evaporate.
2. Detergent and Fabric Softener Residue
- Cause: Over time, detergent and fabric softener accumulate as residue in the detergent drawer, drum, door seal, and drainage system, trapping dirt and causing unpleasant smells.
- Solution: Use only the recommended amount of detergent and softener. Clean the detergent drawer regularly, and service-clean your washing machine with a store-bought detergent or white vinegar.
3. Blocked Drain Pipe
- Cause: Small objects such as coins, buttons, hair, or lint can clog the drain pipe. When blocked, water doesn’t drain properly, leading to stagnant water and bad smells.
- Solution: Lay cloths around the washing machine to catch any trapped water. Check and clean the drain pump filter regularly. If you are unsure how to locate the drain pipe, consult the manufacturer’s manual or call a professional.
4. Leftover Water in the Drum
- Cause: If your washing machine is unable to drain water properly, it may stagnate in the drum, causing an unpleasant smell.
- Solution: Run a spin cycle to check if the problem resolves. If water still lingers, try running the drain cycle. It’s best to consult a professional technician if the problem persists.
5. Limescale (Hard Water) Build-Up
- Cause: In areas with hard water, mineral deposits such as limescale can build up inside your washing machine, trapping dirt and detergent residue, leading to bad smells.
- Solution: Run a service wash monthly on 60°C or higher with a limescale detergent or white vinegar. Check your washing machine’s manual for specific instructions.
6. Clogged or Dirty Filters
- Cause: When filters are not cleaned regularly, lint, hair, and other debris get trapped, leading to bad smells.
- Solution: Clean the filters regularly by removing and rinsing them under running water. You can also wash them with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
7. Bacteria Growth in the Drum
- Cause: Bacteria can grow over time, especially if most of your laundry is done at a low temperature.
- Solution: Run a hot water cycle (60°C or higher) using a washing machine cleaner. To prevent future growth, try to do some laundry at higher temperatures.
8. Dirty or Blocked Hoses
- Cause: Clogged or dirty hoses can trap dirt, soap scum, and mould, leading to bad smells.
- Solution: Inspect and clean the hoses, removing any blockages. If the hoses are damaged, consider replacing them.
Preventing Washing Machine Smells
Once you’ve identified and eliminated the source of the smell, here are a few tips to prevent it from returning:
- Leave the door open: Allow moisture to evaporate to prevent bacteria growth.
- Regular Cleaning: Run a service cycle monthly and clean the detergent drawer, door seal, and filters.
- Use the Right Amount of Detergent: Avoid using more detergent than recommended by the manufacturer to prevent residue build-up.
- Keep the Detergent Drawer Dry: Pull out the detergent drawer after each use to let it dry.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can get rid of unpleasant smells and keep your washing machine clean and fresh. Regular cleaning of the door seal, filters, and running a service wash monthly can go a long way. However, if you’ve tried all these solutions and the smell persists, a professional repair technician can diagnose and fix more complex issues.