Washing machine smell

j1n

Not sure if this is the best place for this....

Our washing machine is about 2 years old. It has a very musty smell, so much so that the kitchen is smelling now. I have run the machine on 90 degrees as per their booklet, I have run it with a whole tub of bicarbonate soda, I have also run it empty with vinegar. Nothing seems to be working.

HELP! What can I do to get rid of the smell? My washing us starting to smell too :mad:

Thank you.

girlsmum

have you cleaned the seal also have you removed the soap drawer and cleaned the cavity and the filter?

Rainy-Days

I had something similar about five years ago during a very hot summer and did all the things you have done. Out of desperation I ran through a tablespoon of bleach. I placed it directly into the drum, put it on a 95 degree hot wash and I never had the issue again!

If it is bad, do it because there is nothing worse than a stinky smelling mahine! I did not harm my machine at all by the way

Ayeshalush

Do you use liquid detergent?


I had this problem and was advised that using liquid detergents can cause this problem, unlike powders, as they don't contain bleach and this allows mould etc to grow in the plastic components which most machines are made of these days.


HTH

Kendall80

You can buy washing machine cleaner. We have to do ours every year or so to avoid any unpleasant smells (sometimes damp, sometimes sewage). We also clean out the bottom tray. It has got so bad previously that i've run bleach through it as suggested above.

Nile

I use washing powder, haven't ever used liquid detergent. To help to prevent mould and smells, I always keep the washing machine door and soap dispenser drawer open when it's not in use.


I think it's a bit like if you switch the power off for a fridge and keep the door closed.............mould develops.;)

jk0

Yes, I was going to say about keeping the door open. One of my tenants has more or less destroyed the seal on his Miele by keeping it closed. It is black with mould.

j1n

I do clean the drawer every month and it is spotless. The seal is as clean as I can get it. And yes, I do use liquid detergent. The drawer and door use to be open but because of the smell, I have started closing it.
The only things I have not used are bleach and the washing machine cleaner. I will check the cleaner out first.
Thanks for your responses. I shall report back.

peachyprice

I find mine actually smells worse after a 90c wash, not better. I avoid boil washes as much as possible. The worst mistake I made was washing the dogs bedding at 90c, the machine being a bit whiffy and thinking a 90c tub clean program would sort it. It was rank after that for weeks.

It takes ages to get back to normal, no amount of cleaner, bleach or vinegar helps, just time and plenty of fresh air.

j1n

Haven't been able to find washing machine cleaner in the local Sainsbury's. I will try a larger store.
Thanks all.

LadyDee

A couple of handfuls of soda crystals and a hot wash, willl probably clear out the gunge that detergents leave behind.