
Laundry day is here, and it’s time to tackle the mountain of dirty clothes that’s been staring you down all week. But, as you open the washer and begin to load your first pile of laundry in the machine, you’re hit with a terrible odor. All at once, the excitement of a productive laundry day is replaced with one burning question: “Why does my washing machine smell?”
Don’t let a smelly washing machine derail your laundry day. The appliance experts at Landers are here to help you uncover the most common culprits behind clothes washer smells and show you exactly how to eliminate them. With a few simple steps, you’ll be back to enjoying the fresh, clean scent of perfectly laundered clothes in no time.
Common Causes of Clothes Washer Smells
If your washing machine smells less than fresh, chances are it’s trying to tell you something. Understanding what causes these odors is the first step to eliminating them for good. Let’s dive into the most common reasons your clothes washer smells:
Dirt and Debris Accumulation
Over time, washing machines can become a catch-all for dirt, soap scum, lint, fabric softener, and water minerals. These residues accumulate in areas like the drum, detergent dispensers, and door gaskets, creating a breeding ground for grime and bacteria. The result? A musty or foul odor that can linger in your laundry room—and your clothes.
Prevention Tips:
- Clean your washing machine regularly by running an empty cycle with hot water and a cleaning agent like white vinegar or a commercial washer cleaner.
- Periodically wipe out the drum, gasket, and detergent dispenser, as these areas often trap debris.
Detergent and Fabric Softener Issues
Using too much detergent or the wrong type can wreak havoc on your washing machine’s efficiency and lead to unwanted smells. Excess detergent doesn’t always rinse away completely, leaving a sticky residue that traps dirt and encourages bacteria growth. Similarly, fabric softeners can coat surfaces inside the washer, adding to the problem.
Prevention Tips:
- Always use the correct type of detergent for your washer—high-efficiency (HE) detergent for HE machines and the recommended amount for each load.
- Skip fabric softener in favor of natural alternatives like white vinegar, which can soften clothes without causing buildup.
Excessive Moisture and Humidity
Washing machines are designed to handle water, but when moisture lingers for too long, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive.
Prevention Tips:
- Don’t let wet laundry sit in your washing machine for prolonged periods of time.
- Ensure your laundry room is well-ventilated, using a fan or dehumidifier if necessary to control humidity levels.
Now you know the most common causes, but you still need to identify the specific culprit. Your next step is to follow your nose!

Sniffing Out the Problem: Clothes Washer Smells Decoded
Still asking yourself, “but why does my washing machine smell?” The answer might be right under your nose—literally! Each type of odor carries clues about what’s causing the problem. Here are the most common complaints we hear and how to decode and banish them for good:
My washing machine smells like sewage!
A sewage-like stench coming from your washing machine can be alarming and unpleasant. This odor often indicates a problem with the drainage system. If the drain hose is kinked, clogged, or improperly vented, stagnant water can build up, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and emit that foul smell.
How to Fix It:
- Inspect the drain hose for blockages, kinks, or improper positioning.
- Use a plumbing snake or a drain cleaner to clear out any debris in the pipes.
- Ensure the washer’s drain hose is securely connected to the drain pipe and not submerged in standing water.
If you continue to notice that your washer smells like sewage, it might be time to consult a professional to investigate potential plumbing issues.
My washer smells like rotten eggs!
If your washer smells like rotten eggs, it’s usually an indicator of sulfur-producing bacteria, often caused by standing water or residue in the washer. These microorganisms release hydrogen sulfide gas, which produces that unmistakable sulfuric odor.
How to Fix It:
- Check the washer’s filter and drain pump for any trapped water or debris.
- Run a cleaning cycle with hot water and a cup of bleach or a commercial washing machine cleaner to sanitize the drum.
- Regularly clean the washer’s gasket, detergent drawer, and drum to prevent bacteria buildup.
Taking these steps can eliminate the smell and keep your washing machine fresh.
My washer smells moldy!
A musty or moldy smell is a common complaint, especially for front-loading washers. If your washer smells moldy, it’s usually caused by moisture trapped in the door gasket or detergent drawer. Mold and mildew thrive in moist conditions!
How to Fix It:
- Wipe down the door gasket after every wash, making sure to dry any water trapped in the folds.
- Clean the detergent drawer thoroughly, removing any residue or standing water.
- Leave the washer door open between uses to improve airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
Once you’ve uncovered and addressed the source of your washing machine’s odors, it’s time to focus on prevention. Here’s how to stop those pesky smells from making a comeback.

Preventing Washing Machine Smells in the Future
The best way to keep unpleasant odors at bay is to maintain a regular cleaning routine for your washing machine. With just a little effort, you can keep your appliance smelling fresh and running efficiently. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Remove and Scrub Dispensers
- Remove the dispenser trays from your machine (refer to your user manual if needed).
- Rinse them with warm water to wash away standing water and residue.
- Use an old toothbrush or small scrub brush to clean out the crevices thoroughly.
- Dry the dispensers completely before reinserting them into the machine.
2. Sanitize With a Cleaning Solution
- Use a commercial washer cleaner to sanitize the machine.
- For a natural alternative, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of white vinegar and add it to the detergent dispenser.
- Run an empty cycle at the hottest setting to let the cleaning solution work its magic.
- Be sure to wipe down the drum, door gasket, and other areas after the cycle to remove any loosened debris.
Repeating these steps every 1–2 months will keep your washer in tip-top shape and make laundry day feel like a breath of fresh air. Say goodbye to clothes washer smells and hello to freshness!
If all of this seems overwhelming and you’d rather have a professional handle it, consider contacting an appliance repair service. If you live in the D.C. area, Landers Appliance offers expert appliance repair in Rockville and would be happy to serve you! If you are closer to Charm City, Landers Appliance is proud to offer appliance repair in Baltimore.