How to Remove Odours from a Washing Machine
A washing machine that smells musty, mouldy or unpleasant is a common problem — and fortunately, one that's usually easy to fix. This guide explains why washing machines develop odours and exactly how to remove them, whether you have a front loader or top loader.
Why Does a Washing Machine Smell?
Washing machine odours are caused by:
- Mould and mildew growing on the rubber door seal (front loaders), drum or detergent drawer
- Soap scum and detergent residue building up in the drum and pipes
- Low-temperature washes that don't kill bacteria
- Keeping the door closed after washing, trapping moisture inside
- Using too much detergent, leaving residue that feeds mould growth
Front loaders are more prone to odour issues than top loaders because moisture is trapped more easily against the door seal. However, both types can develop smells if not properly maintained.
How to Remove Odours from a Front Loader
Step 1: Clean the Door Seal
The rubber door gasket is the most common location for mould growth. Using a damp cloth and either white vinegar or a mild bleach solution (1 tablespoon bleach in 1 litre water), wipe thoroughly around the entire seal, including the folds and inner lip. You may be surprised by how much black mould is hiding in the creases.
Step 2: Clean the Detergent Drawer
Remove the detergent drawer completely (there's usually a release button). Soak it in hot soapy water for 20–30 minutes, scrub away any residue, and rinse thoroughly. Also clean the cavity where the drawer sits.
Step 3: Run a Drum Clean Cycle
Most modern washing machines have a dedicated drum clean or self-clean cycle. Run this cycle with either:
- 2 cups of white vinegar (pour directly into the drum)
- Or a commercial washing machine cleaner like Calgon or Napisan
Do not add laundry detergent during this cycle.
Step 4: Run a Hot Wash
After the drum clean, run a 60–90°C cotton cycle (without clothes) to rinse away any remaining residue and kill any remaining bacteria or mould spores.
Step 5: Leave the Door Open
After every wash, leave the door slightly ajar to allow the drum to dry out. This is the single most effective long-term prevention measure for front loaders.
How to Remove Odours from a Top Loader
Top loaders are generally less prone to mould but can still develop odours from detergent residue and biofilm buildup.
- Fill the drum with hot water
- Add 2 cups of white vinegar, run a full cycle
- Then add 1 cup of baking soda, run another full hot cycle
- Wipe the inside of the drum and the agitator with a damp cloth
- Clean the detergent and softener dispensers
Preventing Washing Machine Odours
- Always leave the door or lid ajar after washing
- Use the correct amount of detergent — more is not better
- Use HE (high efficiency) detergent in front loaders
- Run a drum clean cycle monthly
- Run a 60°C wash at least once a fortnight to kill bacteria
- Wipe the door seal after each wash if prone to mould
When to Call a Professional
If odours persist despite thorough cleaning, the issue may be in the drain hose, pump filter or plumbing. Check the pump filter (usually at the bottom front of a front loader) and clean it — trapped debris is a common odour source. If problems persist, it may be time to service the machine.
Time for a New Washing Machine?
If your washing machine is old, unreliable or the odour problem is chronic, it may be time to replace it. Oceania Appliances stocks a wide range of new front loaders and top loaders at competitive prices, with delivery across all of greater Sydney.
- Showroom: 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park NSW 2164
- Phone / WhatsApp: 0422 489 492
- Email: support@oceaniaappliances.com.au