A washing machine should leave your clothes smelling fresh and clean. If unpleasant odours start coming from the drum, detergent drawer, or door seal, it usually means bacteria, detergent residue, or moisture has built up inside the appliance.

This is a common problem in modern washing machines, particularly those that frequently run low-temperature cycles. The good news is that most odours can be eliminated with a few simple cleaning steps.

In this guide we explain why washing machines develop bad smells and how to remove them safely.

1. Detergent and Fabric Softener Build-Up

One of the most common causes of unpleasant washing machine smells is detergent residue building up inside the appliance.

Liquid detergents and fabric softeners can leave sticky deposits in the drum, detergent drawer, pipes, and seals. Over time these residues create an ideal environment for bacteria and mould to grow.

Signs of detergent build-up

• A musty smell inside the drum

• Residue visible in the detergent drawer

• Clothes not smelling fresh after washing

How to fix it

• Remove the detergent drawer and rinse it thoroughly

• Clean inside the drawer compartment

• Run a hot wash cycle with no laundry inside

Regular cleaning can prevent this build-up from returning.

2. Mould in the Door Seal

Front-loading washing machines have a rubber door seal (also called a gasket) that helps keep water inside the drum.

Because this seal often stays damp after a wash, mould and mildew can develop in the folds of the rubber.

Signs of mould

• Black spots on the rubber seal

• A strong musty smell when opening the door

• Damp residue inside the seal

How to clean the seal

Use a cloth and mild cleaner to wipe around the folds of the rubber gasket. Pay special attention to hidden areas where moisture collects.

If the seal is heavily damaged or mouldy, replacing the door seal may be necessary.

3. The Washing Machine Filter Needs Cleaning

Many washing machines include a pump filter designed to catch lint, debris, and small objects.

If this filter becomes clogged, trapped dirt and water can produce unpleasant smells.

Cleaning the filter

1. Turn off and unplug the machine.

2. Locate the filter panel at the bottom front of the appliance.

3. Place a towel underneath.

4. Slowly unscrew the filter cap and remove debris.

Cleaning the filter every few months can help keep the washing machine fresh.

If your machine is also struggling to remove water, see our guide on why a washing machine is not draining and how to fix it.

4. Frequent Cold Wash Cycles

Many households now use low-temperature washing cycles to save energy. While this is efficient, it can also allow detergent residue and bacteria to accumulate inside the machine.

Hot washes help break down soap deposits and kill bacteria.

A simple solution

Run an occasional maintenance wash at 60–90°C with no clothes inside the machine.

This helps clean the drum and internal pipes.

5. Water Remaining Inside the Machine

If water remains inside the drum or pipes after a wash cycle, it can become stagnant and cause unpleasant smells.

This can sometimes be related to a drainage issue.

Possible causes

• Blocked pump filter

• Kinked drain hose

• Faulty drain pump

If your washing machine regularly leaves water behind, check the drainage system.

6. Leaving the Door Closed After Washing

Another simple cause of odours is trapped moisture.

If the door is closed immediately after a wash cycle, damp air becomes trapped inside the drum and encourages mould growth.

Helpful tip

Leave the washing machine door slightly open after each wash so air can circulate inside.

How to Deep Clean a Smelly Washing Machine

If the odour persists, a deeper cleaning routine can help.

Step-by-step cleaning method

1. Empty the washing machine completely.

2. Add a washing machine cleaner or white vinegar to the drum.

3. Run a hot wash cycle.

4. Clean the door seal thoroughly.

5. Remove and rinse the detergent drawer.

This process helps remove bacteria, mould, and detergent deposits.

When Replacement Parts May Be Needed

If cleaning does not remove the smell, certain components may need replacing.

Common parts linked to washing machine odours include:

• door seals

• detergent drawers

• pump filters

• drain pumps

Replacing worn or mould-damaged parts can restore the appliance to proper working condition.

Replacement washing machine components are available from Yourspares for many appliance brands.

Preventing Washing Machine Smells

A few simple maintenance habits can keep your appliance smelling fresh.

Prevention tips

• Leave the door open after washing

• Clean the door seal regularly

• Run occasional hot wash cycles

• Use the correct amount of detergent

• Clean the pump filter every few months

These small steps can prevent bacteria and mould from building up inside the appliance.

Final Thoughts

A smelly washing machine is usually caused by detergent build-up, trapped moisture, or mould growth inside the appliance. Fortunately, most odours can be removed with regular cleaning and proper maintenance.

By keeping the drum, seal, and filter clean, you can ensure your washing machine continues to deliver fresh and hygienic laundry.

If worn components are causing the problem, replacing the affected part can often restore the appliance and prevent the smell from returning.