Is Your Washer Smelling Musty? Here’s How to Deep Clean It Properly

If you’ve noticed a funky, musty odor every time you open your washing machine, you're not alone. Washers—especially front-loaders—are prone to developing unpleasant smells over time due to moisture, detergent residue, and trapped dirt. But don’t worry: with a few deep-cleaning steps, you can get your washer smelling fresh and running like new again.

Why Does My Washer Smell?

That musty odor usually comes from a buildup of:

• Mold and mildew in the door gasket or drum
• Soap scum and fabric softener residue
• Trapped hair, lint, and grime
• Standing water in hidden areas

Moist environments with poor ventilation are a breeding ground for bacteria. If you leave the washer door closed after use or skip regular cleaning, those bad smells will stick around.

Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Clean Your Washer

Whether you have a front-load or top-load washer, these steps will work wonders:

1. Clean the Door Seal

• For front-loaders, the rubber gasket around the door is the biggest culprit for mold growth.
• Pull it back gently and wipe down the entire area with a cloth soaked in equal parts white vinegar and water.
• Use an old toothbrush to scrub stubborn grime.

2. Run a Cleaning Cycle

• Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser or directly into the drum.
• Run the hottest, longest cycle available (without any laundry inside).
• After that, run another hot cycle with ½ cup of baking soda in the drum to neutralize any leftover odors.

3. Clean the Dispensers

• Remove and rinse out detergent, bleach, and fabric softener trays.
• Scrub away buildup using warm soapy water or vinegar.

4. Wipe Down the Drum and Door

• After the cycles are complete, use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the inside of the drum and the door, removing any lingering moisture.

5. Check and Clean the Filter (if applicable)

• Many front-load washers have a small drain filter that can trap gunk.
• Locate it (usually behind a small panel) and clean it out over a bucket.

How to Prevent Future Odors

• Leave the door open after each wash to allow airflow.
• Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent and avoid overloading.
• Wipe the gasket regularly and run a cleaning cycle once a month.
• Don’t leave wet laundry in the washer for too long.

Don’t Let Your Washer Smell Like a Gym Bag

A clean washer = cleaner clothes. Taking the time to deep clean your machine every few weeks will extend its lifespan, improve performance, and keep those musty odors at bay.

Need help with deep cleaning or home maintenance? Reach out to us for a professional touch that makes a difference!