Why Does My Washer Smell Like Mildew?

An arm reaches into a front load washing machine

At a Glance:

How to Clean a Washer that Smells Like Mildew

Have you ever opened your washer to switch your freshly washed clothes to the dryer, only to find that your washer has a strong musty smell and your clothes seem dirtier than when you loaded them? Chances are that your washer is suffering from mildew and needs a good cleaning!

Today we will be talking about all things mildew, and muck, why it happens, and the ways to take care of it. Cleaning a washer can sometimes seem like a hefty feat, but hopefully, after reading these tips and tricks you will have the confidence to conquer those unwelcome odors and get back to fresh and clean laundry!

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Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?

Most of the time, the reason why a washer smells bad is that dirt and oil from clothing build up inside our washer, and the longer it sits there the more it causes your washer to smell. If you have a front-load washer, the rubber gasket is often the culprit of those pungent smells.

How to Clean a Washer that Smells Like Mildew

There are different cleaning techniques depending on the type of washer you own, and different products that have been proven to solve these smelly issues. Below we will be discussing the difference between cleaning a top-load washer and a front-load washer, how often you need to clean it, and top-quality products that are sure to do the trick.

view from the inside of washing machine of a woman holding her nose in front of wet clothes in the washer

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Cleaning a Top Load Washer (Bleach)

We're going to go through some step-by-step instructions on how to thoroughly clean your top-load washer using both bleach and vinegar. Using either of these common household items is an effective way to kill bacteria (with the use of bleach) and remove soap scum and mineral buildup (with the use of vinegar).

Begin by emptying your washer bin of clothes and your soap dispensers of laundry detergent or fabric softeners
Select the washing cycle you will use to thoroughly clean the washer bin. If your washer has a "self-clean" cycle, go ahead, and select that, but if it does not have that option, simply select a cycle with the largest load, longest cycle time, and hottest water.
Here is where you will add the bleach! Simply add 4 cups of bleach to your washer once it is full, but before it starts to agitate. Then, close the lid and allow the machine to agitate with the bleach and water for one minute.
Next, you're going to open the lid and pause the cycle for one hour to allow the bleach and water to soak in your washer. Some models of top loader washers don't allow you to pause the cycle for an hour, but that's okay. If your model doesn’t allow this, let the washer finish its cycle and then follow the rest of the cleaning steps.
After one hour of soaking, close the lid and let the machine finish the cycle.

NOTE:

Do not mix bleach and vinegar as this creates lethal chlorine gas.

Cleaning a Top Load Washer (Vinegar)

After cleaning your top load washer with bleach, you can now deep clean your washer with vinegar. Do not worry about the vinegar mixing with the bleach now that the washer has completed its cycle. The rinse during the wash cycle will have taken care of the bleach, but if you are more comfortable you can run another rinse cycle before adding the vinegar.

Start by heating one cup of vinegar on either the stove or in the microwave. No need to boil, it just needs to be nice and hot!
Remove your dispensers and place them in a sink or bucket. If your dispensers cannot be removed from your washer, simply pour the heated vinegar over the dispensers and wait for 15 to 20 minutes.
If you are able, remove your dispensers, fill a sink or bucket with hot water and 1 cup of vinegar, and allow your dispensers to soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
For this next step, you will need a toothbrush that is just for cleaning, or a simple scrubbing brush. Once the dispensers have been soaking for the allotted time, simply take your brush and scrub your dispensers clean.
Once you do that, put your dispensers back in the washer before you continue to the next steps.
After you have soaked, scrubbed, and put your dispensers back, you will again select the "self-cleaning" cycle on your washer or use the same cycle you used the first time around. Largest load, longest cycle time, and hottest water. Wait and allow your washer to fill.
Next, you are going to add 4 cups of vinegar into your full washer. For added cleaning power, add ½ cup baking soda to the vinegar water. Mixing baking soda and vinegar is a good tool to use that creates a foamy cleanser that will help scrub your washer.
Once you have added your cleaning elements, close the lid and allow the washer to agitate for one minute.
Like before, once the washer has agitated for 1 minute, you will want to pause the cycle and allow the cleaning mixture to soak for 1 hour. Again, if you don’t have the option to pause the cycle, simply let the washer run through the full cycle.
After the 1-hour soak time, close the lid and let the full cycle run through.
The last and final step to getting rid of that top-load washing machine smell is to simply take a clean, dry cloth (microfiber recommended) and wipe out your washer drum to make sure it gets nice and dry.

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The GE Profile Top Load Washer is a great replacement option if you are needing to retire your old washer. The possibilities are endless with its Smart Wash Technology, Tangle Control, Microban Antimicrobial Technology, Built-in Wi-Fi, and many more convenient features. GE offers two smart color options that allow you to pick a washer to complement your laundry space.

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Cleaning a Front Loader Washer

When you purchase a front-load washer, it may not occur to you that some of the very features that make it unique can also contribute to unwanted mildew build-up that causes a front load washer smell. Front-load washers do not use as much water as top-load washers, therefore, without regular cleaning, your washer becomes susceptible to leftover dirt, grime, and other unwelcome bacteria. Below are step-by-step instructions for you to keep your washer clean, kill bacteria, and free your washer of built-up dirt and soap scum.

Before cleaning your washer, make sure that it is empty of any clothes and that your dispensers are free of laundry soap or fabric softener.
In a spray bottle, add hot water and soap.
Open your washer and peel back the rubber gasket so that the inside of the gasket is visible.
Remove any visible items such as coins, socks, or buttons.
Next, you are going to spray your soapy water into the gasket, and with a dry cloth wipe out the inside of the gasket to remove the mildew. Repeat this step as necessary, or until you feel you have cleaned it thoroughly.
If there are any black mold spots in your gasket, simply take a toothbrush (used for cleaning only), tip it in bleach, and scrub the affected areas until the mold is gone.

NOTE:

Before you continue to the following steps, check to see if your washer has a “Clean Washer” cycle option. If so, grab your use and care manual to follow the steps on how to use that cycle to clean your washer drum.

If your washer does not have the "Clean Washer" option, pour two cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser.
Next, you are going to add ⅓ cup of baking soda to the washing machine drum.
Select the cycle with the longest cycle time, largest load, and hottest water.
Allow the cycle to run through to completion, and then with a dry cloth wipe out the inside of the drum.
Leave the door to the washer and the dispenser ajar, to allow the washing machine to get completely dry.

➣ GE® 4.8 Cu. Ft. White Smart Front Load Washer

Shop this GE® Washer

If you are looking to replace your current front-loading washer, the GE Front Load Washer could just be the perfect replacement option for you. It comes in two different colors and has many unique and convenient features such as UltraFresh Vent System with OdorBlock, Built-in Wi-Fi, Microban Antimicrobial Technology, and Dynamic Balancing Technology.

Model: GFW550SSNWW
Dimensions: 28” W x 39.75” H x 32” D
Capacity: 4.8 cubic feet

Best Cleaning Materials to Have

Cleaning your washer does not have to be stressful or time-consuming. Below is a quick list of the cleaning materials used in this article, and some of the most common household items that will help you fight mildew and keep your washer clean and sparkly.

Bleach
Vinegar
Old toothbrush
Microfiber towel
Baking soda
Spray bottle

→ Learn more: GE Profile Washer and Dryer Review

How Often Should I Clean My Washer?

Depending on how often you are using your washer, it's recommended to deep clean your washer weekly or bi-weekly. If your washer does not get used very often, then deep cleaning once a month is fine. If you must stretch the cleaning time on your washer, looking for classic mildew signs is a must. Musty smells and "dull" looking clothes are classic signs that you could have mildew and that your washing machine needs your attention.

Washing Machine Tips Infographic

FAQ

How do I get the mildew smell out of my washing machine?

To remove mildew smells in your washer, run an empty wash cycle with hot water and either vinegar or a washing machine cleaner. Be sure to clean the door seal and detergent drawer regularly, as mildew can build up in these areas. Keeping the door open between washes will also help prevent future mildew growth.

How to get rid of a smelly washing machine?

To eliminate bad odors, clean the filter, run a hot water cycle with a cup of baking soda, and regularly wipe down the drum, seals, and detergent tray. Ensure you use the correct amount of detergent to avoid buildup, which can contribute to smells.

How can I stop my washing smelling musty?

Prevent musty smells by not leaving clothes in the washing machine for too long after the cycle finishes. Use a sufficient amount of detergent, avoid overloading the machine, and let your washer dry out between uses by leaving the door open.

Where to buy a new washing machine near me?

If you're in the Pleasant Hill area, you can find a great selection of washing machines at Friedmans. We offer a wide variety of brands and models to meet your laundry needs.

Why Trust Friedmans Appliance?

Established in 1922, Friedmans Appliance has been the most trusted name in the Bay Area for over 100 years. What started as a small appliance store in Oakland has expanded to include every appliance you need for your home. Our commitment to value, inspiration, and character has only grown, creating an unbeatable reputation for top-notch appliances. At Friedmans, we strive to give our customers the best of the best, including our selection of top appliance brands and our exceptional customer service. Speaking of which, we offer a 100-day price guarantee on all our products — the longest in the industry!

Our wide selection of appliances is just one of the reasons we’re the best Bay Area appliance store. We carry refrigerators in every style, every cooking appliance to show off your chef skills, and every dish care and laundry appliance you need for cleanup.

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See for yourself why Friedmans is a trusted name in the Bay Area and shop washing machines online. While we are located in Pleasant Hill, we deliver to all of Northern California — even Reno! If you have any questions, our team is always happy to help you find the perfect washer whether you call us at 925-808-2950, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by our appliance store in Pleasant Hill to experience the quality in person. Visit us today!

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