How to Get Rid of Smelly Washing Machine Odors

Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2014/04/12 - Updated: 2021/01/26
Topic: Household Tips - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: Tips and hints to clean and eliminate the odor from dirty washing machines that cause your clothes to smell. According to a washing machine service tech leaving the door or lid slightly open when not in use stops mold from occurring in the machine.

Introduction

There can be many causes for a smelly washing machine. Odors can be caused by a build-up of bacteria, slime, mildew or soap scum, accumulating in the internals. Odor can also be due to poor drainage from the washer which will cause the dirty water to become stagnant in the machine, allowing bacteria in the water to grow.

Main Item

By performing a regular monthly service wash the build up of limescale and detergent, which is often the cause of a smelly washing machine, will be kept at bay greatly increasing the life of your machine. Use a good quality limescale and detergent remover such as the Indesit Company Professional Home Care Product. Simply empty the contents of a sachet (there are 10 sachets in a pack) in to the drum of the washing machine, add 2 large older towels, select the hottest wash cycle on the machine and turn it on. Don't select pre-wash or the machine will empty before the main wash starts.

Tips for Cleaning Smelly Washing Machines

Commercial Products for Cleaning Washing Machines

NOTE: Never use bleach or any detergent containing bleach at the same time as ammonia!

Author Credentials: Ian was born and grew up in Australia. Since then, he has traveled and lived in numerous locations and currently resides in Montreal, Canada. Ian is the founder, a writer, and editor in chief for Disabled World. Ian believes in the Social Model of Disability, a belief developed by disabled people in the 1970s. The social model changes the focus away from people's impairments and towards removing barriers that disabled people face daily. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and achievements, .

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Citing and References

Founded in 2004, Disabled World (DW) is a leading resource on disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility, supporting the disability community. Learn more on our About Us page.

Cite This Page: Disabled World. (2014, April 12 - Last revised: 2021, January 26). How to Get Rid of Smelly Washing Machine Odors. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved April 22, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/assistivedevices/household/tips/washer.php

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