How to get rid of unpleasant smell in the washing machine on your own?

Why does the washing machine smell?

The appearance of an unpleasant odor indicates improper use of the washing machine. It is necessary to immediately determine and eliminate the cause of the stench. Otherwise, systemic problems develop that worsen the quality of work and shorten the service life of the equipment. Often, an unpleasant odor negatively affects human health.

There are several sources of odor:

1. Pathogenic microorganisms (mold). When choosing the fast operation mode at a temperature of +30 … +40 ° C, housewives sometimes forget to take out wet laundry in time. Therefore, pathogenic microorganisms develop inside the machine, accumulating in hard-to-reach places and on the walls of the drum. High humidity also contributes to their development. If this process is not prevented, a damp smell will soon appear. Over time, it becomes swampy, musty.
2. Accumulation of dirt. Some of the sediment formed during active operation remains in the machine. Over time, dirt accumulates in hard-to-reach places, and if the tank is not cleaned regularly, it also accumulates on the walls. An unpleasant smell of decay appears.
3. Scale. The high concentration of salts in hard water contributes to sedimentation and the deposition of solid deposits on surfaces. Scale has a porous structure and absorbs all the smells of dirty water well.
4. Sewage. It gets into the drain hose due to its incorrect connection to the pipe, breakage, or clogging. Then an intense stench spreads from the machine.
5. Soot. It appears when internal elements and mechanisms are damaged. For example, when the control board contacts “burn out”, the wiring shorts out, and some mechanisms malfunction. Thermal damage is detected when it starts to smell burnt.

Cleaning with a service wash

A service wash is a full cycle of the machine (without loading laundry or detergents) in the maximum heating mode. Manufacturers of household appliances recommend carrying out this procedure at least once a month, as it helps clean the drain hose, drum and avoid dirt accumulation.

To carry out a service wash yourself, you should:

1. Start an empty cycle. Do not leave laundry inside the washing machine, or load detergents into the tray (drawer). You can use household chemicals if stubborn stains and calcium deposits are found on the components of the device.
2. Choose an effective detergent. Since the main purpose of service washing is to remove stains of all types and accumulations of pathogenic microorganisms, compositions with bleach are used. This component has bactericidal properties. It is not recommended to use regular liquid detergents and capsules, since they do not bring the expected effect.
3. Choose the right program. To ensure the best result, you should prefer a mode with a high heating temperature (at least 60 ° C). The program should not include a pre-wash stage.

General cleaning of all parts

Dirt accumulates not only inside the tank, but also on other components of the machine. For example, mold often develops in the folds of the cuff and the tray compartment, scale settles on metal elements. Therefore, it is necessary to remove dirt not only from the tank, but also from other parts.

Look at the main reasons why the washing machine jumps and how to fix it.

Rubber cuff

The cuff is a rubber seal located along the contour of the loading hole and allows you to seal the hatch. Often, inexperienced housewives do not pay attention to it. But moisture and dirt stagnate in the folds of the cuff, mold develops over time and a putrid smell appears. Therefore, it is recommended to clean the rubber gasket regularly.

If a persistent calcium deposit has formed on the cuff, it is removed using the following agents:

• fresh lemon juice;
• white vinegar;
• a cleaning agent with an “antinacin” effect.

Mold accumulations are eliminated using the following agents:

• chlorine-containing detergents;
• copper sulfate;
• nail polish remover.

The procedure is carried out after each wash. The selected agent is applied to a sponge (or piece of fabric) and the cuff is wiped. Hard-to-reach places are treated especially carefully. Then rinse with clean water and dry with a soft dry cloth.

Powder tray

The compartment for loading detergents (powders and gels) is an ideal place for the development of pathogenic microorganisms, especially black mold. High humidity and heat are always maintained here.

Therefore, it should be cleaned regularly (at least once every 3 weeks).

1. The tray is removed from the opening, after first turning off the power supply.
2. Immerse it in a large container with a soap solution and wash it with a sponge (hard-to-reach places are cleaned with a toothbrush).
3. Wipe the washing machine compartment with a rag soaked in a weak solution of vinegar.
4. Then rinse the removable part under the tap (under running water) and dry it.

Drain pump filter and drain hose

A clogged drain hose or pump filter (where it connects to the pipe) is the most common problem when using a washing machine. Accumulation of debris and moisture are ideal conditions for the rapid development of pathogenic microflora (mold and bacteria), which emit a stench. Over time, blockage leads to disruption of the device’s functions, so the performance of the drainage system is carefully monitored.

1. If clogged, the hose and filter (its approximate location is shown in the photo) are carefully removed, after first shutting off the electricity and water supply.
2. The components are inspected and, if there is no mechanical damage, washed.
3. The hose is cleaned with a brush attached to the end of a metal cable.
4. The filter is freed from debris and washed in a soap solution.
5. Then the components are rinsed with clean water and installed in place.
6. Before use, run an “idle” cycle to better clean the hose and filter.

Electric heater

Most washing machines have a built-in water heater (TEN), which heats the water and improves the quality of the unit’s operation. Over time, calcified (lime) deposits form on its surface, which reduces efficiency and collects unpleasant odors. It is removed using special chemical solutions.

1. A dirty, poorly functioning heating element is carefully removed from the machine, after disconnecting the device from the power supply and water supply.
2. Place it in a narrow container (a plastic bottle without a neck, a bucket) filled with a solution of citric acid.
3. Leave it for a day, then rinse with warm water, dry it, and install it in its original place.

How to clean a machine with special products?

Professional commercial products are the most effective when cleaning a machine. They are designed taking into account the quality of materials and the operating features of the unit. To use the full potential of such high-quality compounds, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Descaling agent “Antinakipin”

A proven product that is produced in the form of a powder or liquid solution. It is able to remove old calcified deposits. It does not harm plastic components and is recommended for use by manufacturers of household appliances.

The composition is non-toxic and safe for humans.

Hygienic cleaner Mister DEZ

A product based on calcified (at least 30%), which copes with all types of dirt. It is part of the Eco Cleaning line of household chemicals and is environmentally friendly. It is poured into the drum of the machine before the service wash.

Tiret cleaner

A liquid cleaner based on citric acid that easily and quickly copes with the most difficult stains and unpleasant musty odors. It is used during the service wash, pouring a small portion into the tray after heating the water to +60°C. The composition can be used to wipe any components of the device, including metal, plastic, rubber (including the body).

Universal cleaner Domestos

The composition of universal Domestos gels includes sodium hypochlorite – a powerful disinfectant. Therefore, the cleaner copes well with the removal and prevention of mold. In addition, it helps to get rid of most dirt accumulations, incl. residues of fat.

Nagara drum cleaner (tablets)

Tablets from the Japanese brand Nagara eliminate and prevent the reappearance of plaque and mold on the components of the washing machine. They neutralize unpleasant odors and saturate the space with attractive aromas. The tablets are used during the monthly service wash.

Universal cleaner Dr. Beckmann

The hygiene product is produced in the form of a powder or gel. It is used to remove simple stains and plaque, neutralize bad odors. Load into a tank or tray.

Luxus Professional Cleaner

Universal cleaner from a Russian manufacturer that quickly and easily removes scale from a water heater and other metal components. Environmentally friendly, as it is made from plant components. Therefore, after cleaning the machine with Luxus Professionsl powder, wash the laundry immediately.

How to remove unpleasant odors using folk remedies?

You can quickly and effectively eliminate unpleasant odors using household products. Acidic and caustic substances are used in the work, which can destroy complex and old stains. However, do not forget that they are toxic, so wash the laundry only after completely rinsing the tank.

Citric acid

Mineral deposits and dirt dissolve well with citric acid. However, this substance is also effective in the fight against mold, because suppresses the development and destroys pathogenic microorganisms.

Cleaning steps:

1. Take the clothes out of the washing machine and make sure there are no foreign objects left inside.
2. In compartment II (for powder), simply pour 100 g (half a glass) of crystallized citric acid. You can also use a liquid substance.
3. Then run an empty cycle, selecting the mode with the maximum water heating temperature. During the main wash stage, citric acid will be distributed over the inner surface of the drum, and during the rinsing stage, it will be removed along with the deposits.
4. Before loading clothes, run a second rinse cycle to finally get rid of the remaining chemical substance.

Soda

The substance has pronounced alkaline properties and is the simplest and most effective means of removing mold and scale from washing machine components. In the work, mainly soda ash is used, sometimes it is mixed with a food analogue.

Cleaning steps:

1. Remove all foreign objects from the washing machine.
2. Mix 100 g (half a glass) of soda ash and 200 g (a glass) of baking soda, pour into the tray.
3. Then run the cycle idle, setting the mode with heating the water to a temperature of +40 … + 60 ° C and a washing duration of 30-40 minutes.
4. After 20 minutes, stop the process and simply leave the washing machine with a filled tank for 2 hours.
5. Finish the washing cycle and make sure that there are no foreign odors.

Vinegar

Table vinegar corrodes dirt as effectively and quickly as citric acid. It is a natural degreaser and antibacterial agent. It copes well with removing dirt residues, strong and persistent foreign odors.

Cleaning steps:

1. Prepare the machine: remove all foreign objects from the tank.
2. Pour 100 ml of white vinegar into the central compartment (marked with the “asterisk” symbol).
3. Start the main wash program.
4. When finished, make sure the interior surfaces are clean. If necessary, repeat the procedure a second time.
5. Open the door of the washing machine and dry the tank thoroughly from the inside.

Bleach or bleach

Bleach or chlorine-containing bleach does an excellent job of dealing with most stubborn stains and mold, and completely removes unpleasant odors in the washing machine. Since these are toxic substances, be sure to use the recommended amounts when working with them and use personal protective equipment (respirator, rubber gloves).

Cleaning steps:

1. Pour 100 g of bleach or chlorine into the empty tank of the machine. You can also pour the liquid solution into the appropriate compartment of the tray.
2. Close the hatch (lid) and start an empty wash cycle.
3. When finished, start the rinsing process to get rid of soap scum from the drum. If the washing machine still smells, repeat the procedure.

Copper sulfate solution

A weakly concentrated solution of copper sulfate (copper sulfate) not only effectively eliminates odors, but also helps to disinfect surfaces. If mold has formed on the inner surface of the tank, it will be completely removed after the first treatment with the substance.

Cleaning steps:

1. Prepare a working solution: dilute 30 g of copper sulfate powder in 1 liter of clean water.
2. Remove the laundry from the washing machine tank, remove all small objects.
3. Treat the inner walls with the solution, paying special attention to areas with visible accumulation of mold fungi. Also wipe the compartments for loading detergents, the hatch. Leave it like this for at least 24 hours.
4. Pour a portion of washing powder into compartment II (for powder) and start an empty wash cycle.
5. Repeat the procedure a second time, but without using detergent.
6. Wipe the inner walls dry.

Dishwasher tablets

Dishwasher tablets are considered an inexpensive and effective cleaning agent. They contain bleach and surfactants, so they can be used when servicing any household appliance. These products are good at removing simple stains, scale, and unpleasant odors.

Cleaning steps:

1. Empty the washing machine tank. Make sure there are no small objects left inside.
2. Place the first tablet in the tank cavity and the second in compartment II (for powder) of the tray.
3. Run an “empty” wash cycle at maximum water heating. Be sure to select the double rinse option, but turn off the spin.
4. When the process is complete, open the hatch and wait until the tank is completely dry.

When should you call a plumber?

Sometimes an unpleasant odor from the machine is associated with more complex problems than dirt and mold. For example, these can be severe blockages, mechanical damage to components, or a broken control board. In this case, it is better to call an experienced plumber.

It is recommended to contact a specialist if:

• the smell of sewage (like in a pipe), burning appears;
• a leak forms;
• the quality of washing deteriorates in the absence of visible reasons;
• no cleaning results (if the laundry continues to smell unpleasant after washing);
• errors in the washing program associated with the appearance of a bad smell.

Preventive measures

Unpleasant odors in the washing machine are often associated with long and difficult work to eliminate them.

Therefore, to avoid their occurrence, it is recommended to follow the rules of proper operation:

• do not store dirty laundry in the washing machine tank;
• use high-quality detergents (powders, gels);
• follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the dosage of household products;
• at the end of the washing cycle, leave the hatch open until the cavity dries;
• clean the cuff (rubber) after each wash;
• carry out a service wash monthly;
• check the condition of the drainage system every 3 weeks and clean it if necessary.

If problems arise during servicing the machine that cannot be solved due to a lack of knowledge and skills, then simply seek help from experienced plumbers. Of course, you can watch a video with lessons on self-repair, but this does not always help to correct the situation.