Why Do Clothes Smell Bad After Washing?
Learn why clothes can smell bad after a wash and how to prevent it. Mold, mildew, and bacteria in your washer might be the culprits. Get practical solutions to keep your laundry fresh.
Learn why clothes can smell bad after a wash and how to prevent it. Mold, mildew, and bacteria in your washer might be the culprits. Get practical solutions to keep your laundry fresh.
Written by Andrew Shevchenko
Contributing Writer
Updated October 09, 2024
f you’ve noticed a lingering bad smell after running your washer, you’re not alone. Many homeowners experience unpleasant odors from their washing machines, even after a seemingly successful wash. The good news is, you can identify and fix the problem to keep your washer smelling fresh.
Here are some common reasons and fixes:
Over time, detergent, fabric softener, and dirt can accumulate in your washer, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. High-efficiency washers, in particular, use less water, which can lead to detergent residue buildup.
• Fix: Run a monthly cleaning cycle with hot water and a washer cleaner or use vinegar and baking soda. Be sure to wipe down the drum, detergent drawer, and rubber gasket after each use.
Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments, making your washer a prime location. The rubber gasket and door seals on front-load washers can trap moisture, contributing to foul odors.
• Fix: Keep the washer door open between cycles to allow air circulation, and regularly clean the rubber gasket with a mixture of vinegar and water.
A clogged drain or washer filter can prevent water from draining properly, leading to stagnant water that causes a musty smell.
• Fix: Check your washer’s filter and drain for clogs, and clean them regularly.
Cold water doesn’t break down detergent as effectively, leading to soap buildup and smelly bacteria.
• Fix: Occasionally run a hot water cycle to help dissolve detergent and kill bacteria.
Many people assume that because a washer cleans clothes, it doesn’t need to be cleaned. In reality, washers need regular maintenance to avoid the buildup of dirt and detergent.
• Fix: Run an empty load with a washer cleaner or hot water with vinegar and baking soda at least once a month to keep your washer clean and odor-free.
Forgetting to take wet clothes out of the washer can result in a damp, musty smell.
• Fix: Remove clothes as soon as possible after the cycle ends. If you accidentally leave them for a while, rewash with hot water and vinegar.
Preventing bad smells in your washer is all about regular maintenance and cleaning. By following these steps, you’ll keep your washer fresh and functioning at its best. If you experience persistent problems, Major at Appliance Repair can help with professional maintenance and repairs to keep your washer in top shape.
Why do my freshly washed clothes smell bad?
This could be due to mold, mildew, or bacteria buildup inside the washing machine. A washing machine drum, especially in front-loaders, can harbor moisture and dirt if not cleaned regularly, causing bad odors.
How can I get rid of the bad smell in my clothes?
Try washing them again with hot water and add vinegar or baking soda to neutralize odors. Ensure the machine’s detergent drawer and seals are clean, as dirt buildup in these areas can also contribute to the smell.
How can I prevent my clothes from smelling bad after washing?
To avoid unpleasant smells, leave the washing machine door open after each wash to allow airflow, clean the machine regularly, and avoid leaving damp clothes sitting in the washer for too long.
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