Washing Machine Smells? 6 Expert Fixes + Materfix Deep Clean

Washing Machine Smells and How To Get Rid of Them

Does your laundry smell worse after a wash? Is your washer giving off a scent that makes you wrinkle your nose? You're not alone. A smelly washing machine is one of the most frustrating problems homeowners face—and it doesn’t matter how clean your clothes are if your washer smells like something’s rotting inside.

You’ve scrubbed your clothes, but the washer still smells... awful.

If you’ve ever caught a whiff of something that reminds you of rotten eggs, musty towels, or a moldy basement, and thought:

• “What’s that smell?”

• “Why does my washing machine reek like that?”

• “And how do I clean it so it stays fresh?”

This guide is for you.

Table of Contents

• What’s That Smell? Common Washing Machine Odors Explained

• Top 6 Reasons Your Washing Machine Smells (And What Causes Them)

• How to Clean a Smelly Washing Machine (Step-by-Step)

• Washing Machine Still Stinks? When to Call MasterFix in Boston

• FAQs: Your Washing Machine Smell Questions Answered

What’s That Smell? Common Washing Machine Odors Explained

If your washer smells off, it’s likely due to bacteria, mold, or stagnant water trapped somewhere it shouldn't be. Washing machines are dark, damp environments—the perfect home for odor-causing grime to thrive.

Here are the top culprits:

• Rotten eggs – Sulfur-producing bacteria, often from standing water

• Musty or moldy – Mildew in gaskets, drums, or detergent drawers

• Sour or dirty sock smell – Leftover detergent and softener residue

Front-loaders are especially prone to these smells—but top-loaders aren’t immune.

Top 6 Reasons Your Washing Machine Smells (And What Causes Them)

1. Overusing Detergent = Sticky, Stinky Residue

More detergent isn’t better. It builds up inside the drum and hoses, creating a film where bacteria thrive.

2. You’re Closing the Door Too Soon

Closing the door immediately after a cycle traps in humidity, which leads to mildew. Leave it open to let moisture escape.

3. The Rubber Gasket Is a Mold Magnet

Especially in front-loaders, the door gasket traps moisture, lint, and hair. If it smells, this is likely the #1 reason.

4. The Drain Filter Is Packed with Gunk

Clogged filters trap dirty water and lint. Over time, they create a swampy smell in your washer.

5. You’re Skipping Monthly Maintenance

Washing machines need cleaning too. A monthly self-clean cycle or natural clean with vinegar and baking soda helps prevent buildup.

6. Internal Hoses May Be Harboring Mold

When smells persist after cleaning, bacteria may be hiding deep inside the hoses or the drain pump.

How to Clean a Smelly Washing Machine (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Scrub the Gasket

• Mix vinegar + baking soda into a paste

• Pull back the rubber seal and scrub deeply

• Wipe dry when done

Step 2: Soak and Scrub the Detergent Drawer

• Remove the drawer

• Soak in warm, soapy water

• Scrub with an old toothbrush

Step 3: Run a Vinegar + Baking Soda Cycle

• Add 2 cups white vinegar and ½ cup baking soda to the drum

• Run the hottest, longest cycle available

Step 4: Flush with a Hot Water Cycle

Run a second cycle with hot water only to remove remaining residue.

Step 5: Clean the Drain Filter (if accessible)

• Open the access panel

• Place a pan to catch water

• Remove and rinse the filter

Step 6: Leave the Machine Open and Dry

• Wipe down the drum, gasket, and compartments

• Leave the door slightly open to prevent mildew

Repeat monthly for a consistently fresh washer.

🛠️ Washing Machine Still Stinks? When to Call MasterFix in Boston

If you’ve cleaned every crevice and your washing machine still stinks, you’re likely dealing with a hidden issue like:

• Mold inside the drain hoses or pump

• Backflow from a contaminated drain line

• Faulty components that trap standing water

At MasterFix, our Boston-based technicians are trained to identify and fix problems the average homeowner can’t reach. From dismantling components to deep internal cleans, we do the dirty work so your washer smells fresh again.

✅ Same-day service available✅ Backed by warranty✅ Local, certified experts

Schedule your washer odor diagnosis today.

FAQs: Your Washing Machine Smell Questions Answered

Why does my washer smell like rotten eggs?

It’s sulfur-producing bacteria, often from standing water in the drain hose or filter. Clean these areas first and avoid closing the door after each wash.

How do I clean a smelly washing machine effectively?

Scrub the gasket, clean the detergent drawer, run vinegar + baking soda on a hot cycle, and clean the drain pump. Repeat monthly.

How often should I clean my washer?

• Deep clean: Once a month

• Door/gasket wipe-down: After every load

• Detergent drawer rinse: Weekly

• Drain filter check: Every few months

Is a smelly washer dangerous?

Yes—mold and bacteria can cause allergies, respiratory issues, or skin irritation. Plus, it signals buildup that could lead to costly repairs.

Can MasterFix clean my washing machine professionally?

Absolutely. We specialize in deep cleaning and odor removal for washing machines in Boston. We go beyond surface cleaning to restore your washer to like-new condition—guaranteed.

✅ Final Thoughts

A smelly washing machine ruins more than just laundry—it affects your home, your health, and your comfort.

But it’s 100% fixable.

Start with a deep clean. And if that doesn’t cut it, let MasterFix take over. We’ll eliminate odors at the source so you can enjoy clean clothes—and a clean-smelling laundry room.

Ready to stop the stink?📞 Call MasterFix today for washer odor removal and repair services in Boston.

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