Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?

1. Washing Machine Needs To Be Cleaned

Over time, soap scum, dirt, lint, water minerals and fabric softener can build up in your washing machine and create the perfect environment for grime and bacteria to grow. This buildup can occur in various parts of the washing machine including: the gasket, drum, in the dispensers, around the door, under the washer’s lid and in any area on the appliance where wash water reaches. If left un-cleaned, this buildup can result in an unpleasant, wet dog smell.

Clean Washing Machine Regularly

To avoid your washer smelling like a wet dog, make sure to keep your washer clean by regularly washing the appliance monthly or after every 30 wash cycles. Using washing machine cleaner tablets can help ensure buildup is removed and that the washer is thoroughly cleaned inside resulting in an odor-free appliance. Liquid chlorine bleach is another possible cleaning agent to try in your appliance to help fight off unwanted odors.

2. Using Too Much Detergent

Another reason you might notice an unpleasant smell coming from your washer could be due to using an excess amount or wrong type of detergent. A traditional high sudsing detergent will usually result in detergent residues throughout the water.

Excess detergent can sometimes accumulate in or around the drum or filter of the washer. This accumulation combined with the damp environment inside of the appliance can sometimes produce a foul smell. A washer that hasn’t been properly maintained may have detergent buildup that only becomes apparent when running a washer maintenance cycle, so regular maintenance is key to keeping a buildup-free washing machine.

Precisely Measure Detergent

To avoid excess detergent in your laundry loads, make sure to measure out the amount of product for every wash. By using an accurate amount of detergent you will be able to ensure your clothes are cleaned properly and avoid buildup of excess detergent in your appliance. 

4. Washer Is Damp For Too Long

Another common cause of a wet dog smell coming from your washer is leaving the appliance damp for extended periods of time after running a wash cycle. Leaving a washer wet for too long can lead to unpleasant smells and even the growth of mold due to the moist environment that can sometimes be created. 

A washer that contains residues may cause the entire clothes load to develop malodors if the load is allowed to remain in the washer overnight or for extended periods of time. If a load of laundry is in the washer for too long, you might also need to rewash or re-rinse the clothes. 

Empty Washer Immediately After a Wash Cycle

To prevent this from happening, it’s important to make sure you don’t leave your washer wet for too long and clean it regularly between washes. A great way to further avoid the washer being damp for too long is to leave the washer door open when not in use. This is especially important if your appliance will be unused for extended periods of time. Doing so will help keep your washer smelling fresh and free of any unpleasant odors. 

5. Washer Isn’t Draining Properly

Water not draining properly from your washer could also be the reason you are noticing a wet dog smell coming from your appliance. Clogged drains or pipes are a common culprit behind unwanted smells because they can create a blockage and prevent the washer from draining properly.

Make Sure the Drain Pipe Is Clear

Check the washing machine drain pipe regularly to make sure it is free from blockages. Ensuring that water isn’t accumulating inside of your washer will result in proper drainage and help reduce the amount of mold, slime, soap scum and bacteria buildup.

1. Use Less Fabric Softener

Normal use of fabric softeners doesn’t necessarily cause unpleasant odors, but using an excess amount can sometimes result in unwanted buildup. Use less or avoid using fabric softeners in your washing machine to help avoid excess residue buildup in the appliance and on your clothes.

2. Make Sure The Lint Trap Is Clean

Take time to clean the lint trap on your washing machine after every wash cycle. Removing lint from your washer will help keep your clothes free from lint buildup and odors.

3. Create More Air Circulation in Laundry Room

Adding a fan to your laundry room can help improve the overall air circulation. Improving air circulation around your washing machine can help prevent mold and mildew growth and keep unpleasant odors at bay.