Smelly washing machine

My washing machine is smelly. What can I do about this? Is it easy and safe to deal with DIY?

Asked by duncan on 18th Sep 2022
Expert Trade Answers
"Dealing with a smelly washing machine is a common issue and can often be addressed with simple DIY methods. Here are a few steps you can take:

1. Clean the detergent drawer and door seal: Remove any detergent residue, lint, or mold buildup from these areas using a cloth or sponge soaked in a solution of equal parts water and vinegar.
2. Run a hot water cycle with vinegar: Pour two cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser and run a hot water cycle without any clothes. This helps to dissolve residue and kill bacteria.
3. Clean the drum: Wipe down the inside of the drum with a cloth soaked in vinegar or use a commercial washing machine cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Leave the door open: After each wash, leave the washing machine door open to allow moisture to evaporate, preventing mold and mildew growth.
5. Check the drain pump filter: Occasionally check and clean the drain pump filter, as trapped debris can contribute to odors."
Answered on 19th Apr 2024 - Member since Apr 2024 - report
"Service engineer for dishwashers

Make sure the washing machine or dishwasher is empty and fill the detergent tray of the dishwasher to the top measure with HG washing machine and dishwasher deep clean and service. Set the programme on the highest possible temperature (65 °C). Start the complete programme immediately and let it run without interruptions. The dishwasher is ready for use.

Service engineer for washing machines

In washing machines, the main detergent tray or the machine itself must be filled with one whole bottle of HG washing machine and dishwasher deep clean and service. Do not add extra detergent. Set the programme on the setting for dark laundry (60 °C). Switch the washing machine on and let the programme finish completely, without interrupting, including spin drying. The washing machine is ready for use."
Answered on 18th Sep 2022 - Member since Aug 2022 - report
"Fill a mug with 1/4 part baking soda and the same amount of detergent, then pour the mixture of the two substances into the dispenser of the washing machine, this will be the real thing. Pour 2 dl of vinegar into the drum and start an empty wash at the highest temperature."
Answered on 19th Sep 2022 - Member since Dec 2021 - report
"Hi yes it is very easy just put a bottle of vinegar inside and turn it on on a regular program"
Answered on 19th Sep 2022 - Member since Apr 2022 - report
"The main reason for unpleasant odors coming from the inside of the washing machine is reckless and spontaneous use of the equipment without following the manufacturer's guidelines, especially in terms of the amount of detergents used. The smell in the washing machine is caused by the chemical reactions of the detergents remaining in the drum. Usually we use too much detergent for washing. Washing detergent or concentrate remaining in the drum will not improve the good "condition" of the washing machine. It is enough to pour one tablespoon of detergent into the chamber for one washing cycle."
Answered on 24th Oct 2022 - Member since Oct 2022 - report
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