How to Clean Washer Smell and Get Rid of Odor for Good

How to Clean Washer Smell

How to clean washer smell? It’s one of the most common questions homeowners ask when that unpleasant, musty odor starts coming from their washing machine. Even though your washer is meant to clean, over time detergent residue, trapped moisture, and bacteria can make it smell anything but fresh. The good news is that you don’t need to replace your machine or call a Home Cleaning Service right away. With the right steps and a little help from Fresca Clean, you can easily remove washer odors and keep your laundry smelling crisp and clean again.

Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?

Even though washing machines are built to clean, they can sometimes become the source of unpleasant odors. The reason is simple: moisture, soap residue, and dirt often stay trapped inside the machine, especially in places you can’t see. Over time, these areas become the perfect environment for bacteria and mold to grow. Understanding why your washing machine smells is the first step to fixing it properly:

Mold, Detergent Buildup, and Trapped Moisture

When you use too much detergent or fabric softener, not all of it gets rinsed away. This leftover residue sticks to the inside of your washer, especially around the drum and rubber seals. Add a bit of warmth and moisture, and you’ve created a cozy home for mold and bacteria. That’s when that sour, musty odor starts to appear.

To prevent this, try using the recommended amount of detergent for your load size and always leave the washer door slightly open after each cycle. Allowing air to circulate helps dry out any leftover moisture and keeps the interior fresh. If your washer already smells, don’t worry. A deep cleaning routine can remove all that buildup and restore the freshness.

Why Top Load Washer Smells Happen More Often

Top load washing machines are convenient and usually hold larger loads, but they’re more likely to develop odors than front load models. One reason is that they often use more water, which means there’s more opportunity for residue and dirt to accumulate in hidden areas. The agitator in the center of the drum can also trap lint and detergent scum that’s hard to reach.

Another reason is that many people close the lid right after finishing a wash cycle. This traps moisture inside, creating a damp, warm environment where bacteria thrive. After every use, keep the lid open for a few hours and wipe down any visible buildup. Small habits like these make a big difference in keeping your top load washer smelling clean and fresh.

How to Get Rid of Smell in Washing Machine (Step-by-Step Guide)

How to Get Rid of Smell in Washing Machine

If your washing machine smells bad, you’re not alone. The good news is that getting rid of the odor doesn’t require professional help or complicated tools. With a few simple cleaning steps, you can eliminate the smell and keep your washer running fresh. Follow these easy steps to bring your washing machine back to life.

Step 1: Run a Hot Cycle with White Vinegar and Baking Soda

One of the simplest and most effective ways to remove washer odor is by using natural cleaning ingredients you already have at home. Pour two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum and run a hot cycle. Vinegar helps break down soap residue and kills odor-causing bacteria. Once the first cycle is done, sprinkle half a cup of baking soda inside the drum and run another hot cycle. This combination neutralizes lingering smells and leaves your machine fresh and clean.

If your washer still has a strong odor after this, try letting it sit for about 30 minutes with the vinegar-water mixture before starting the cycle. This allows the solution to reach the tough spots inside the drum and loosen built-up grime.

Step 2: Clean the Rubber Gasket, Drum, and Detergent Drawer

Odors often hide in areas you can’t see, like the rubber gasket around the door or the detergent drawer. These spots collect dirt, soap scum, and even bits of fabric over time. Use a soft cloth soaked in a mix of warm water and vinegar to wipe them down. Make sure to get into the folds of the gasket where mold and residue love to hide.

After cleaning, remove the detergent drawer completely if possible and rinse it under warm water. Dry everything with a clean towel before putting it back. This step alone can make a huge difference in removing that lingering musty smell.

Step 3: Remove and Rinse the Filter

The filter catches small items like lint, hair, and detergent residue, and over time it can become a hidden source of odor. Check your machine’s manual to locate the filter, usually near the bottom front panel. Carefully remove it and rinse it under hot water until it’s clean.

Once done, wipe around the filter area before putting it back. Doing this every few months not only prevents smells but also helps your washer drain more efficiently.

Step 4: Dry the Machine and Leave the Door Open

After cleaning, use a dry towel to wipe the inside of the drum and door area. Leaving moisture behind is one of the main reasons smells return, so take a minute to dry what you can. Then leave the washer door open for a few hours to let the interior air out completely.

This simple habit goes a long way. It prevents the warm, damp conditions that bacteria and mold need to grow, helping your washer stay fresh for much longer.

Step 5: Use the Right Washing Machine Cleaner

If you’ve tried all the previous steps and your washer still has a faint odor, it might be time to use a specialized washing machine cleaner. These products are designed to reach areas that home ingredients can’t easily clean, like deep inside the drum or behind the rubber seal. You can find liquid or powder-based cleaners in most supermarkets or online. Just follow the directions on the package and run a hot cycle with an empty drum.

For those who prefer natural methods, you can also make a simple DIY cleaner by mixing baking soda, vinegar, and a few drops of lemon juice. It helps dissolve buildup and leaves your washer smelling clean without harsh chemicals. Using the right cleaner once a month keeps your washing machine fresh and prevents odors from returning.

How to Get Smell Out of a Top Load Washer

Top load washing machines are known for being practical and easy to use, but they can develop stubborn odors if not cleaned regularly. The good news is that with a few simple adjustments, you can get rid of the smell and keep your washer fresh for every load.

Why Top Load Machines Need Extra Attention

Unlike front load washers, top load machines tend to collect residue at the bottom and under the agitator. Over time, this buildup traps dirt, lint, and leftover detergent, creating the perfect environment for musty smells. Because these areas are harder to reach, regular cleaning becomes even more important.

To deep clean a top load washer, start by filling the drum with hot water and adding two cups of white vinegar. Let it sit for about an hour to dissolve grime inside the machine, then run a complete wash cycle. After that, sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot cycle. This two-step method neutralizes odors and removes hidden buildup effectively.

Best Cleaning Methods for Top Load Washers

If you prefer natural cleaning, vinegar and baking soda are enough for most cases. But if your machine hasn’t been cleaned for a while, try wiping the inside with a soft cloth dipped in vinegar and warm water before starting a cycle. Focus on the top edges and under the rim, as those areas often trap detergent residue that regular cycles don’t reach.

Also, don’t forget to clean the lid and dispenser area. These spots can hold detergent splashes that eventually cause unpleasant smells. A quick wipe after every few loads can make a big difference in preventing odor.

Tips to Keep Your Top Load Washer Smelling Fresh

Once your washer smells clean again, keeping it that way is all about simple habits. After each wash, leave the lid open to allow airflow and help the drum dry completely. Avoid using too much detergent, since excess soap doesn’t rinse out properly and can cause buildup. Running one hot cleaning cycle every month will also keep your machine fresh and odor-free.

It might seem small, but these habits add up. With consistent care, your top load washer will stay clean and perform better for years to come.

How to Prevent Washer Odor from Coming Back

Getting rid of the smell is just half the job. The real goal is to make sure it doesn’t return. The key to keeping your washing machine fresh is consistency. A few simple habits can stop odor from ever building up again and make cleaning your laundry easier in the long run.

• Use the right amount of detergent. Too much soap doesn’t rinse out completely and leaves residue inside the drum and hoses. Measure detergent carefully based on your load size and water hardness.

  
  

• Leave the lid or door open after every wash. This helps moisture evaporate and prevents mold and bacteria from growing inside.

  
  

• Run a monthly cleaning cycle. Use hot water with vinegar and baking soda, or a suitable washer cleaner, to remove hidden buildup and freshen the drum.

  
  

• Wipe down the drum and gasket. After laundry day, quickly dry any visible moisture to keep mildew from forming.

  
  

• Keep the area around your washer dry and ventilated. If your laundry room is small, use a small fan or open a window to improve airflow.

These small steps don’t take much time, but they make a huge difference. With just a few minutes of care after each wash, your machine will stay fresh, clean, and ready for the next load.

When to Call a Professional (or Replace Parts)

Sometimes, even after a thorough cleaning, that unpleasant smell just won’t go away. If you’ve tried all the usual steps and the odor keeps returning, it might be a sign of a deeper issue. Calling a professional can save you time, frustration, and possibly prevent more expensive repairs later on.

• The smell returns quickly after cleaning. If your washer smells again within a few days, there might be hidden buildup in the hoses, drain pump, or internal parts that require professional tools to reach.

  
  

• Water is not draining properly. Slow or standing water inside the drum means the drain or pump could be partially clogged, which causes stagnant odors over time.

  
  

• You notice mold inside the drum seal. When mold becomes visible or spreads under the rubber gasket, it’s often too deep to remove completely at home.

  
  

• Your machine is more than five years old. Older washers can have worn-out seals and hoses that trap moisture and bacteria, making persistent smells harder to eliminate.

  
  

• Strange noises or leaks appear. If your machine rattles, leaks, or makes odd sounds, the smell may just be a symptom of a mechanical issue that needs attention.

  
  

If any of these sound familiar, it’s best to schedule an inspection with a trusted technician. A professional can clean internal components, replace worn parts, and ensure your washing machine keeps working efficiently.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Washing Machine Fresh and Odor-Free

How to clean washer smell? This question is not just about removing bad odors once, but about learning how to keep your washer clean and fresh in the long run. In this article, we explained everything you need to know, including the main causes of washer odors, effective step-by-step cleaning methods, tips for top load machines, and simple ways to prevent smells from returning. If your washer ever needs a deeper refresh, Fresca Clean’s Home Cleaning Service can help with professional tools and eco-friendly solutions that make your laundry area spotless. At Fresca Clean, we believe that a clean washer means cleaner clothes and a healthier home. Now you have every step to make that happen.

FAQ

How to clean washer smell naturally?

You can clean washer smell naturally by running a hot cycle with two cups of white vinegar, followed by another hot cycle with half a cup of baking soda. This removes buildup and neutralizes odors without harsh chemicals.

How to get smell out of washing machine fast?

To remove odor quickly, wipe the drum, gasket, and detergent drawer with vinegar, then run a short hot cycle. Leaving the door open afterward helps dry out moisture and prevents new smells.

Why does my top load washing machine smell bad?

Top load washers often smell because detergent residue, lint, and moisture build up under the agitator and along the drum. Regular cleaning with vinegar and baking soda helps prevent this.

How to get rid of odor in washing machine permanently?

To permanently remove odor, clean the machine regularly, use the right amount of detergent, and leave the door open after every wash. Running a monthly hot cycle also keeps odors from coming back.