Where the smell comes from
The rubber door seal
Water, hair and fluff collect in the folds. Look for black spots.
The detergent drawer
Softener and detergent build up into a sticky, mouldy layer.
The filter
Usually behind a small flap at the bottom front. It catches fluff, coins and hair.
The drum
Cool washes and too much softener leave a film that bacteria feed on.
Step by step
- 1Wipe the door sealPull back the folds and wipe them with warm soapy water and a cloth. Dry them afterwards.
- 2Clean the drawerPull it out (most have a release catch), soak it in warm water and scrub off the build-up. Wipe inside the drawer housing too.
- 3Clear the filterPut a towel and a shallow tray down first: water will come out. Follow your machine's manual, clean the filter and screw it back firmly.
- 4Run a hot empty washRun the machine empty on its hottest cycle or its drum-clean programme, with detergent or a washing machine cleaner as the maker recommends.
Stop it coming back
Leave the door and the drawer open between washes so they can dry. Take washing out as soon as the cycle finishes. Use the detergent dose on the pack, not more, and go easy on softener. Run a hot maintenance wash about once a month.
Top tips
- Check your machine's manual before cleaning the filter.
- Don't leave wet washing in the drum overnight.
- If the smell comes back quickly, the drain hose or pump may need a service.
Questions
Wipe the door seal every week or two and run a hot maintenance wash about once a month. Clean the drawer and filter every month or two.
Usually a dirty machine, washing left in the drum too long, or clothes put away before they're fully dry.
Not always. A hot empty wash and a good wipe of the seal, drawer and filter usually do it. Follow your machine maker's advice.