Washing Machine Smells Like Mildew
A musty, sour, or mildew smell coming from your washer — especially common in front-load machines. The smell transfers to your "clean" clothes, defeating the purpose of washing them.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Try these fixes before calling a technician
Run a cleaning cycle
Run an empty hot water cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar OR 1/2 cup of baking soda (not both together). Many newer washers have a dedicated "Clean Washer" or "Tub Clean" cycle — use it monthly. This dissolves soap residue and kills mildew.
Clean the door gasket (front-load)
Pull back the rubber door gasket and clean inside the folds with a rag soaked in a 50/50 vinegar-water solution. You'll likely find trapped hair, coins, and black mildew. This is the #1 source of front-load washer smell.
Leave the door open after use
Always leave the washer door ajar after a load finishes. A closed door traps moisture inside the drum, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. Even an inch of gap makes a huge difference.
Clean the detergent dispenser
Pull out the detergent drawer and wash all compartments in warm soapy water. Scrub the housing where the drawer sits — soap scum and standing water breed mildew here. Clean it every 2-4 weeks.
Use the right amount of detergent
Excess detergent doesn't rinse out completely and leaves a residue film inside the drum that feeds mold. Use HE detergent in HE machines, and use only the recommended amount — usually far less than you think.
When to Call a Professional
If deep cleaning doesn't eliminate the smell, mold may have penetrated the outer tub, drain hose, or pump housing. A technician can disassemble the washer, clean or replace the affected components, and fully eliminate the odor source.
West Metro Appliance Repair has completed 3,530 washer repairs across 70+ Twin Cities communities. Our technicians see this exact problem regularly and can diagnose it quickly.
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