Why Does My Washing Machine Smell? 7 Causes and How to Fix Them

You open your washing machine expecting the smell of fresh laundry—but instead you're hit with a musty, sour, or mildew-like odor.

A smelly washing machine is surprisingly common. Moisture, detergent residue, fabric softener, lint, and debris can collect in parts of the washer that don't fully dry between loads.

The good news? In many cases, you can find the source and fix the problem with some basic maintenance.

Here are 7 common reasons your washing machine smells—and what to do about each one.

Important: Always check your washing machine's owner's manual before using a cleaning product or opening a filter. Cleaning and maintenance instructions vary by brand and model. Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or other cleaning products.

1. Moisture Is Trapped Inside the Washer

One of the most common causes of a musty washing-machine smell is moisture that remains inside after the wash cycle ends.

This is especially common with front-loading machines because water can remain around the rubber door gasket and other enclosed areas.

What to do

After finishing your laundry:

• Remove wet clothes promptly.

• Wipe away visible moisture around the door and gasket.

• If your manufacturer recommends it and it's safe in your household, leave the washer door or lid slightly open between loads.

• Run the washer's recommended cleaning cycle regularly.

Allowing air to circulate helps the inside of the washer dry instead of staying damp.

2. You're Using Too Much Detergent

More detergent does not necessarily mean cleaner clothes.

Using too much detergent can leave residue behind inside the drum, dispenser, and other parts of the washer. Over time, that residue can combine with moisture and everyday laundry soil and contribute to unpleasant smells.

High-efficiency washers are particularly important to use with the proper type and amount of detergent.

What to do

Check:

• Your washing machine's detergent recommendations

• The detergent manufacturer's dosing instructions

• Your load size

• How heavily soiled the clothes are

If you have an HE washer, make sure you're using detergent labeled for high-efficiency machines.

And don't automatically fill detergent to the maximum line for every load.

3. Fabric Softener Residue Has Built Up

Liquid fabric softener can leave residue in the dispenser and other areas if too much is used or the dispenser isn't cleaned regularly.

That buildup can contribute to a stale or musty smell.

What to do

Check the fabric-softener dispenser for:

• Sticky residue

• Thick buildup

• Discoloration

• Trapped moisture

If your dispenser is removable, take it out according to your machine's instructions.

Wash it with warm water and mild soap, then use a small cleaning brush or old toothbrush to reach corners and crevices.

Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry before putting it back.

4. The Door Gasket Is Dirty

If you have a front-loading washing machine, check the rubber gasket around the door.

Its folds can trap:

• Lint

• Hair

• Detergent residue

• Small objects

• Water

• General laundry debris

Because the gasket can remain damp, it is one of the first places to inspect when a front-loader develops an odor.

How to clean it

Gently pull back the gasket folds and inspect the area.

Remove any loose debris.

Then clean the gasket according to your washer manufacturer's instructions. For routine wiping, a soft cloth and mild soapy water may be appropriate for some machines.

Dry the gasket thoroughly afterward.

If you see heavy staining, persistent mold-like growth, cracking, or damage, check your owner's manual before using stronger products. The gasket may require manufacturer-specific cleaning or service.

5. The Detergent Dispenser Is Dirty

Your detergent drawer may look clean from the outside while residue is collecting underneath or behind it.

Detergent, fabric softener, water, and lint can accumulate in the dispenser area over time.

How to clean it

First, check whether your dispenser can be removed.

If it can:

1. Remove it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

2. Rinse it with warm water.

3. Wash away residue with mild soap.

4. Use a small brush for corners and narrow openings.

5. Rinse thoroughly.

6. Allow it to dry before reinstalling it.

Also wipe the accessible area where the dispenser slides into the machine.

Cleaning this area regularly can help prevent heavy buildup.

6. The Drain-Pump Filter Needs Cleaning

Some washing machines—especially certain front-loading models—have a user-accessible drain-pump filter.

This filter can collect lint, hair, coins, small objects, and other debris.

If drainage becomes restricted or water remains in the washer, odors may develop.

What to do

Check your owner's manual to determine:

• Whether your washer has a user-serviceable filter

• Where it's located

• How it should be cleaned

If your model has one, follow the manufacturer's directions carefully.

You may need to place a towel or shallow container underneath before opening the filter because water can drain out.

Never assume every washer has the same filter setup.

7. Wet Laundry Sat in the Washer Too Long

We've all done it—you start a load of laundry and forget about it.

Unfortunately, leaving wet clothes sitting inside a closed washer for hours can create the perfect environment for that familiar musty smell.

The odor may affect both the clothing and the inside of the machine.

What to do

Move wet laundry to the dryer or drying rack as soon as possible after the cycle ends.

If you've forgotten a load and the clothes smell musty, rewashing them according to the garment-care instructions may be necessary.

If the washer itself continues to smell afterward, run the machine's recommended cleaning cycle.

A phone reminder can be surprisingly helpful if forgotten laundry happens often.

How to Get Rid of Washing Machine Odor

If you're not sure exactly where the smell is coming from, work through these steps.

Step 1: Empty the Washer

Remove all clothing and inspect the drum for forgotten items or debris.

Step 2: Check the Door Seal

For front-loading washers, inspect the gasket folds and remove trapped lint, hair, and debris.

Step 3: Clean the Dispensers

Remove detergent or fabric-softener buildup using the cleaning method recommended for your machine.

Step 4: Check the Filter

If your washer has a user-serviceable drain-pump filter, inspect and clean it according to the owner's manual.

Step 5: Run the Cleaning Cycle

Look for a cycle labeled:

• Clean Washer

• Tub Clean

• Self Clean

• Drum Clean

Use the washing-machine cleaner or cleaning method approved for your particular model.

If your washer doesn't have a dedicated cleaning cycle, follow the alternative cleaning procedure in the owner's manual.

Step 6: Let the Washer Dry

When appropriate for your machine and household, leave the washer open enough for moisture to evaporate after cleaning.

For a complete step-by-step cleaning routine, see our guide How to Clean a Washing Machine: Step-by-Step Guide.

Front-Loading vs. Top-Loading Washer Odors

Both types of washing machines can develop odors, but the trouble spots can differ.

Front-Loading Washers

Pay particular attention to:

• Rubber door gasket

• Detergent dispenser

• Drain-pump filter, if accessible

• Moisture trapped around the door

• Detergent residue

Top-Loading Washers

Check:

• Detergent and fabric-softener dispensers

• Upper edges of the tub

• Under the lid

• Areas around an agitator or impeller, where accessible

• Detergent residue

• The washer's cleaning-cycle schedule

No matter which type you own, follow the instructions for your particular model.

How to Prevent Washing Machine Smells

Once the odor is gone, a few habits can help keep it from returning.

Remove Laundry Promptly

Don't let wet clothes sit in the washer longer than necessary.

Let Moisture Escape

If your manufacturer allows it and it's safe in your home, leave the washer door or lid slightly open between loads.

Measure Your Detergent

Use the type and amount recommended for your washer and laundry load.

Keep Dispensers Clean

Check detergent and fabric-softener dispensers regularly instead of waiting until buildup becomes heavy.

Wipe the Front-Loader Gasket

If you have a front-loading washer, periodically check the gasket for trapped moisture and debris.

Run the Cleaning Cycle Regularly

Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. Many machines benefit from a regular cleaning cycle, particularly when used frequently.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mixing Cleaning Chemicals

Never combine household cleaning products in an attempt to make them stronger.

Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or other cleaners.

Use one manufacturer-approved cleaning method at a time.

Assuming Vinegar Is Safe for Every Washer

Vinegar is popular in household cleaning advice, but that doesn't mean every washing-machine manufacturer recommends putting it inside the appliance.

Check your manual first.

Using Too Much Detergent

Excess detergent can contribute to residue rather than giving you cleaner laundry.

Cleaning Only the Drum

The smell may actually be coming from the gasket, dispenser, filter, or another area.

Ignoring Persistent Drainage Problems

If water isn't draining correctly, cleaning alone may not solve the problem.

When a Smelly Washer May Need Service

Sometimes an odor isn't simply a cleaning issue.

Consider contacting the appliance manufacturer or a qualified repair professional if:

• Water remains in the drum after cycles.

• The washer isn't draining properly.

• You notice repeated error codes.

• The odor returns immediately after proper cleaning.

• You see leaking.

• A gasket, hose, or other component appears damaged.

• The smell resembles burning or an electrical odor.

A burning or electrical smell should not be treated as a normal cleaning problem. Stop using the appliance and follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my washing machine smell musty?

Trapped moisture and residue are common causes. Check the drum, gasket, detergent dispenser, and filter if your washer has one.

Why does my washing machine smell even after I cleaned it?

The odor may be coming from an area you haven't cleaned, such as the gasket, detergent drawer, filter, or drainage system.

Run the manufacturer's recommended cleaning procedure. If the odor continues, consult the manufacturer or an appliance professional.

Can I use vinegar to clean a smelly washing machine?

Don't assume vinegar is appropriate for every washing machine.

Check your owner's manual before putting vinegar or any other household cleaning product inside the washer.

Can I use baking soda?

Again, follow the cleaning instructions for your specific model. A common household product isn't automatically approved for every appliance.

Should I use bleach?

Only use bleach if your washer manufacturer specifically recommends or permits it for the cleaning procedure you're performing.

Never combine bleach with other cleaning products.

How often should I clean my washing machine?

Follow the maintenance schedule for your model. For many households, checking and cleaning the washer about once a month is a practical routine, particularly when the machine is used frequently.

Why does my front-loading washer smell worse than my top-loader?

Front-loading machines have a rubber door gasket that can trap moisture and debris. That doesn't mean every front-loader will smell, but the gasket is an important area to inspect and keep clean.

Does leaving the washer door open help?

Allowing the interior to dry between loads may help reduce trapped moisture. Follow your manufacturer's guidance and only leave the door open when doing so is safe in your household.

Final Thoughts

If your washing machine smells musty, sour, or stale, don't immediately assume you need a new appliance.

Start with the most common trouble spots: trapped moisture, excess detergent, fabric-softener residue, the door gasket, detergent dispenser, filter, and forgotten wet laundry.

Then run the cleaning cycle recommended for your particular machine.

Once the washer is fresh again, small habits—using the right amount of detergent, moving wet laundry promptly, keeping key areas clean, and allowing moisture to escape—can make a big difference.

A little routine maintenance can help keep both your washer and your laundry smelling fresher.