Washing Machine Stinks

TrapperChamonix

In recent weeks, my washing machine has developed a strong smell. The clothes smell a bit when they come out. Hanging on the line removes this smell.

I've tried cleaning out the filter and the detergent drawer but it hasn't helped.

Any suggestions? Is there a cleaning product I can use on an empty cycle?

TX

tbh

are you sure that the dirty water is able to drain out?

StandnDeliver

there is a filter at the bottom of your washing machine,unscrew it and clear the blockage,that may help

TrapperChamonix

StandnDeliver: I have unscrewed and cleaned the filter.

tbh: as far as I can tell all the water is draining out. None left in the machine.

Alun

Take a look here http://www.ukwhitegoods.co.uk/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=43

TrapperChamonix

Alun, sounds like a plan. Thanks very much.:)

miju

if you have a stand pipe check to se if your waste hose hasn't slipped down into it and is syphoning the water from the drain back into the outer drum.

Always leave the door open to 'air' the machine for at least an hour after every wash.

I was told to do this and my machine smells fresh as a daisy after five years.

KatCookie

The mother had the same problem, so she put just a few sheets or something that wouldnt get damaged in the wash and she put in on at 90 which seemed to work!.. even if its not eco-friendly

TrapperChamonix

As per a suggestion on the link Aluns gave, I put 1/2 cup of white vinegar in on a 90 degree wash and it seems to have done the trick. Tx Alun.

Interestingly it suggests that Liquid / non bleach detergents at low temp are the problem.

Alun

Glad it helped. We now do one of those dummy 90 degree washes every 6-8 weeks and it certainly helps keep the pong to a minimum.

Another place where we found quite a bit of smelly gunk in ours was in the folds of the flexible rubber seal between the drum and the door opening. Just went in there with a paper towel and wiped around the inside a bit.