2. Scrub the Detergent Dispenser Drawer and Housing
The detergent drawer seems like an unlikely place for foul odors since only cleaning products pass through it. However, liquid laundry detergents and especially concentrated fabric softeners leave behind a thick, sticky residue. Over weeks and months, this buildup hardens inside the compartments and the hidden housing cavity behind the drawer.
When fresh water flushes through during a cycle, it passes over this damp, decaying soap buildup, creating a sour, musty smell that gets blown into the main washing drum.
To clean the detergent drawer effectively:
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Locate the release tab (usually in the middle compartment) and pull the entire drawer completely out of the machine.
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Submerge the drawer in a sink filled with hot water and dish soap or white vinegar.
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Use an old toothbrush to scrub away all softened soap crust from every compartment, paying close attention to the underside and narrow liquid siphon tubes.
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Before reinserting the drawer, look inside the cavity where the drawer sits. You will likely see mold or soap scum on the top spray nozzles and interior walls. Spray a cleaning solution inside and scrub it clean.
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Rinse the drawer thoroughly, dry it, and slide it back into place.
Switching from heavy liquid fabric softeners to white vinegar or using powdered detergents can dramatically lower soap buildup in the dispenser over time.
3. Run a Deep Service Cleaning Cycle on the Washing Drum
Even if the visible parts of the drum look shiny and clean, the outer stainless steel tub that holds the water is hidden from view. The space between the inner drum and the outer tub collects layer upon layer of body oils, lint, mineral deposits, and soap scum known as “scrud.”
Modern washing machines frequently run cold or eco-friendly warm cycles to save energy. While cold water is great for fabric care and energy bills, it fails to melt away heavy grease and detergent residues or kill bacteria. Over time, these bacteria colonies multiply on the outer tub, releasing a distinct rotten or stale odor.
To perform a thorough deep clean of the drum:
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Ensure the washing machine is completely empty of clothing.
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Add specialized washing machine cleaner tablets directly into the drum, or pour two cups of distilled white vinegar into the drum and half a cup of baking soda into the detergent compartment.
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Select the hottest cycle available on your machine—often labeled as “Sanitize,” “Tub Clean,” or a 90°C cotton cycle.
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Let the cycle run completely. If your machine allows you to pause the cycle once it fills with hot water, pause it for one hour to let the cleaning solution soak into the buildup before finishing the run.
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Run a second short rinse cycle with plain water to flush away any remaining loosened debris or vinegar odor.
Performing a hot service wash once a month prevents the buildup of bacteria and keeps the interior drum smelling fresh.
4. Clear and Drain the Drain Pump Filter
Most front-loading and many modern top-loading washing machines feature a drain pump filter located behind a small access door at the bottom front corner of the machine. This filter is designed to catch lint, stray coins, hair clips, keys, and small items like socks before they can enter and damage the drain pump.
When the filter catches debris, organic matter becomes trapped in standing water inside the filter housing. Over time, this stagnant water rots, creating a powerful smell reminiscent of rotten eggs, sewage, or sulfur.
To check and clean the drain pump filter:
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Place a shallow tray or old towels on the floor beneath the filter access panel, as standing water will spill out when opened.
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Open the small access door at the bottom front of your appliance.
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If your model includes a small emergency drain hose next to the filter, unplug its cap and drain the trapped water into a container first.
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Slowly unscrew the filter cap counterclockwise and pull it out.
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Remove all trapped debris, hair, and lint from the filter basket.
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Wash the filter under warm running water with a brush.
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Reach your finger into the filter housing cavity to check if the pump impeller spins freely and clear any hidden debris.
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Reinsert the filter securely, turning it clockwise until tight, and close the access door.
Cleaning this filter every two to three months keeps your machine draining smoothly and prevents stagnant water smells.
