How to Deep Clean a Smelly Washing Machine and Banish Laundry Odors for Good

Why Your Washing Machine Smells and What It Means for Your Laundry

If your washing machine emits a musty or sour odor, it's likely due to a buildup of mold, mildew, soap scum, and fabric softener residue in areas that stay damp. This not only makes your laundry smell unpleasant but can also reduce the machine's efficiency and lifespan. A deep clean every one to three months is essential for maintaining fresh-smelling clothes and a healthy home. This step-by-step guide will show you how to thoroughly clean both front-load and top-load machines using natural and effective methods.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather these supplies: distilled white vinegar, baking soda, a soft cloth or microfiber cleaning cloths, a toothbrush or small scrub brush, and optional dishwasher cleaner tablets if you have hard water deposits. Avoid using bleach in rubber seals as it can degrade them over time.

Step 1: Clean the Dispenser Drawer and Gaskets

Remove the detergent and fabric softener dispenser drawer—most simply pull out or have a release button. Soak it in hot, soapy water with a cup of vinegar for 15–30 minutes. Meanwhile, pull back the rubber gasket (door seal) on a front-loader and wipe away any black mold or slimy residue using a cloth dampened with white vinegar. Use a toothbrush for crevices. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry.

Step 2: Run a Hot Vinegar Cycle

Pour two cups of distilled white vinegar directly into the drum (not the dispenser). Set the machine to the hottest and longest cycle (like a “clean washer” or heavy-duty cycle with an extra rinse). The vinegar will break down soap scum, mineral deposits, and odor-causing bacteria. If your machine has a pre-wash option, skip it.

Step 3: Run a Baking Soda Cycle

After the vinegar cycle finishes, sprinkle one cup of baking soda into the drum. Run another hot cycle on the longest setting. Baking soda neutralizes odors and helps lift any remaining residue. For extra cleaning power, you can add half a cup of washing soda along with the baking soda.

Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior and Door

Use a clean microfiber cleaning cloths to wipe the inside of the drum, door glass, and all rubber seals. Pay special attention to the bottom fold of the gasket where water can pool. A cotton swab or old toothbrush helps reach tight spots. Ensure everything is dry before closing the door.

Step 5: Clean the Filter (if accessible)

Most front-loaders have a drain filter behind a small door near the bottom front. Place a towel and shallow pan underneath to catch water. Unscrew the filter slowly, remove lint and debris, and rinse it under hot water. Reinsert and tighten. This prevents clogs and musty smells from trapped gunk.

Step 6: Freshen the Drum and Deodorize

If a slight odor remains, place an odor eliminator inside the drum between uses or run a short cycle with a half cup of vinegar and a few drops of tea tree oil. You can also use an dishwasher cleaner tablet in a hot wash cycle as some are safe for washing machines—check the label.

Step 7: Prevent Future Smells

After each wash, leave the door open for at least an hour to let moisture escape. Wipe the gasket and door seal with a dry cloth. Use only the recommended amount of activewear laundry detergent or other detergents—overuse leaves residue. Consider switching to laundry detergent sheets which dissolve easily without residue. For extra drying, use wool dryer balls to improve air circulation in your dryer.

Conclusion

Deep cleaning your washing machine every few months is a simple but powerful step in home care. It eliminates odors, improves wash performance, and extends the life of your appliance. By using natural cleaners like vinegar and baking soda along with regular maintenance, you'll keep your laundry fresh and your machine in top condition. Start with the steps above and enjoy cleaner, better-smelling clothes every cycle.