How To Fix A Washer That Smells

If your washing machine is not maintained properly it suddenly turns from cleaning yours and your beloved ones clothes into a health hazard. And since this happens quite often in Toronto homes we have created a short guide that will help you identify the cause and treat it as best as you can by yourself to prevent and treat such issues. 

1. Moldy Gasket on Front Load Washers

Front loaders have become very popular in the last few years. A rubber seal around the door is responsible for blocking the water from leaking all over the place. That gasket stays wet for a long time, and if moisture sits there, mold grows. Once mold builds up, the smell spreads to the whole washer (And potentially to your clothes). You will usually notice black spots on the rubber or slimy residue in the folds. Sometimes hair or small debris gets stuck in there too. 

Here is how to prevent it:

• Leave the washer door open after every cycle

• Wipe the gasket dry when you can (Preferably after every cycle)

• Remove any debris stuck in the folds

• Do not use harsh “mold remover” chemicals on the rubber

The reason we avoid strong chemicals is simple. They eat away at the rubber. If the gasket gets thin or weak, even a tiny hole can turn into a major leak. If the mold gets really bad or the smell does not go away, it might be time for a technician to replace the seal safely.

2. Drain Smell During the Drain Cycle

If the smell gets stronger when the washer drains, that usually means the odor is coming from inside the drain pump or drain hose. Detergent residue, lint, hair, and small debris can sit inside the pump housing. Over time this creates a buildup that starts to smell. Some washers have an accessible filter you can clean. If yours does, you should clean it every 60 cycles or as the manufacturer suggests. Always follow the manual because each brand has its own safe steps for opening the filter area and that will help you prevent flooding your laundry area.  If you clean the filter and the smell still comes back, go to point number three.

3. Detergent and Softener Buildup Inside the Washer

Modern washers use a lot less water than older machines. This is great for efficiency, but it also means not all detergent and softener gets fully rinsed out. Over time the leftover residue turns into a sticky film inside the drum and hoses that traps odor. This is extremely common, especially with scented softeners.

Here is how to safely clean the washer:

• Use a washing machine cleaning tablet approved by your brand

• Run it on the hottest cycle

• Choose a setting that fills the most water and on the highest temperature available, usually called Clean Washer or Clean Tub mode

Avoid running bleach, vinegar, or using strong chemical mixes. Newer washers are not built like older machines. Harsh chemicals can damage hoses and rubber inside the washer. Keeping the washer dry after use and avoiding too much soap helps prevent future smells. We all love when our clothes smell great and fresh after a washing cycle - Do not overdo it. Use carefully measured amounts of softer and detergent and your machine will thank you in the long run.  

When to Call a Technician

Call us if:

• The smell is strong even after cleaning

• The gasket has deep mold stains that won’t scrub out

• The drain pump area smells very bad and you cannot access the filter

A smelly washer can easily become a health hazard for you and your loved ones even if it only feels like an "unpleasant odour”. 

Why Toronto Homeowners Call Us

People call us because:

• We have 350+ 5-star reviews across multiple platforms

• Same-day or next-day repairs

• Fair, honest pricing

• Service call is waived with any repair

• Every part replaced comes with warranty

• Local, Family owned and operated

Book Your Washer Repair in Toronto

If your washer smells and nothing you try is fixing it, we can help.
We deal with this every day in Toronto and Vaughan.

Call: 647-424-1316
Visit: bestrepairs.ca

Serving Toronto, Mississauga, Vaughan, Aurora, Markham, Newmarket, Scarborough, Etobicoke, Richmond Hill, North York, East York, Whitchurch-Stouffville, King City, Maple, Thornhill, Woodbridge, Unionville, Aurora and Bolton.