Why does my washing machine smell?

Opening the door to your washing machine to be met with an unpleasant smell can cause concern, but it's not uncommon. Many homeowners will likely experience this, especially if your washing machine is due to be cleaned. You may notice a few common odours when putting a wash on, including the smell of eggs, dampness, and even sewage.

So, what does this mean? Different odours can point to different issues within your washing machine, so whilst the smell may be unpleasant, identifying them will allow you to deal with the problem for fresh washing every time.

Common causes of washing machine smells

If you're about to set off a load of washing and you notice your washing machine smells, you may not know why. Whilst it's unpleasant, identifying the smell emitting from your washing machine will allow you to deal with the problem effectively.

Your washing machine deals with dirty clothes, meaning body oil, dirt and hair can become trapped within the machine. Plumbing issues, blockages, and a build-up of residue can all contribute to washing machine odours. Some of the common smells and causes for them include:

Mould and mildew:
If you notice your washing machine smells mouldy or musty, this could point to several issues. Firstly, check the dispenser for a build-up of detergent. Mould and mildew smells could also be caused by a mouldy washing machine seal.
Eggy smell:
If your washing machine smells eggy, this may be caused by a blocked drainage system. Soft debris like lint and hair can become clogged in the drain hose, emitting a foul smell.
Sewage smell:
If you find your washing machine smells like sewage, this is likely to be caused by a drainage issue. The smell is caused by bacterial build up which emits unpleasant gases. It could also be caused by a clog in the standpipe or backflow problems.

How to get rid of washing machine smells

Once you've identified the smell coming from your washing machine, you can deal with it effectively. And there are ways you can tackle this yourself without needing help from a plumber. Here are a few ways you can deal with washing machine smells depending on the odour:

Mould and mildew smell

Clean your washing machine inside and out, including the drum, drawer, and seal for the best results. This smell could be coming from a build-up in your detergent drawer, so make sure you clean and rinse this with warm water. You could also use a soft toothbrush to loosen any tough grime.

This smell could also be caused by a mouldy washing machine seal around the door. You can clean this easily with a paste made from bicarbonate of soda and warm water. Apply the mixture to the seal, leave for 15 minutes, and remove with a damp, clean cloth.

Eggy smell

This smell is typically caused by a build-up of microorganisms producing unpleasant-smelling gas. If your washing machine drum is due to be cleaned, conduct a service wash - most washing machines have this setting built in. To deep clean the drum, add white wine vinegar or use an antibacterial washing detergent at a high temperature. It's advised that you do this once a month to keep your washing machine in good condition and free from odours.

Drain or sewage smells

To get rid of any drain or sewage smells that may be coming from your washing machine, make sure that the standpipe of the appliance is not blocked. The standpipe connects the washing machine to the wall. It has a U-shaped base and helps to drain away water, as well as prevent any gas from returning through the pipe.

To check if your standpipe is blocked, run a drain cycle. If you notice water backing up through the standpipe, it's likely obstructed. Whilst you can deal with this yourself with a drain snake to remove any soft debris, it's best to consult a plumber to prevent damage to your washing machine.

Tips for preventing washing machine smells

Whilst washing machine smells can be fixed at home and on a budget, knowing how to prevent them means your washing machine can run efficiently and effectively each time. To benefit from fresh-smelling laundry with every wash:

Leave door open between washes:
Leaving the washing machine door ajar between washes allows air to circulate, preventing the build-up of mould and mildew.
Use the right amount of detergent:
Detergent buildup can be one of the main causes of washing machine smells, especially in the drawer and drum. Only use a small amount of detergent with each wash to prevent this.
Remove wet clothes promptly:
Try and time your washes so that you can empty the drum as soon as the cycle ends. Removing wet clothes from the drum prevents dampness and mould from forming.
Run hot water cycles periodically:
Most modern washing machines have a cleaning cycle. Run this cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a mixture of white wine vinegar and baking soda to eliminate the build-up of residue.

Benefits of maintaining a clean washing machine

Washing machine cleaning may not be at the forefront of your mind, but maintaining your appliance comes with a range of benefits.

Improved laundry hygiene

Generally, cleaning your washing machine regularly makes for improved laundry hygiene, removing dirt, bacteria, and allergens which can benefit your health, as well as producing fresh-smelling clothes. It reduces the risk of freshly washed items becoming streaked with detergent which can be the result of build-up in the dispenser.

Effective washing

It's not just your clothes that will benefit from a clean washing machine. The appliance itself will function more effectively, resulting in an overall better performance. Cleaning can also increase your washing machine's lifespan, reducing the chance of blockages and clogs that can require costly repairs or even result in you having to replace your washing machine altogether.

Improved energy efficiency

A clean washing machine can save you money on bills. Cleaning your appliance means it will work more efficiently, using less energy to operate. Not only does this save you money, it also makes for a more eco-friendly wash cycle.

Addressing the issue of a smelly washing machine not only helps improve the longevity of your appliance, it also means hygienic, fresh laundry with each wash. Knowing why your washing machine smells and what causes it, along with regular cleaning and maintenance allows you to maintain your appliance and benefit from clean, fresh clothes with every wash.

At Marks Electrical, we have a range of both integrated and freestanding washing machines to suit your home. With brands like Bosch, Samsung, and LG, you can choose an efficient, reliable washing machine for fresh, hygienic laundry with every load.