Washing Machine Smells Bad? Here's How to Fix It

You put dirty clothes in and they come out smelling... worse? A smelly washing machine is a common problem, especially in Malé's humidity. The culprit is almost always mould and bacteria thriving in warm, damp conditions inside the drum.

Why It Happens

Three things cause washing machine odour:

1. Using too much detergent — excess soap leaves a residue that bacteria feed on
2. Keeping the door closed between washes — traps moisture inside
3. Always washing on cold or low temperatures — never kills bacteria buildup

In Malé's tropical humidity, the problem develops faster because nothing ever fully dries.

Step 1: Run a Hot Empty Cycle

Run your machine on the hottest setting, completely empty, with two cups of white vinegar in the drum. This kills bacteria and dissolves detergent residue.

Step 2: Clean the Rubber Seal (Front Loaders)

If you have a front-loading machine, pull back the rubber door gasket and look inside. You'll likely find black mould, hair clips, coins, and residue.

• Wipe the entire gasket with a cloth soaked in a 50/50 water-vinegar solution
• Use an old toothbrush to get into the folds
• For stubborn mould, use a paste of baking soda

Step 3: Clean the Detergent Drawer

Pull out the detergent drawer completely (most slide out — press the release tab). You'll see buildup of old detergent and possibly mould.

• Soak the drawer in hot water with vinegar
• Scrub all compartments with a brush
• Clean the cavity where the drawer sits — use a toothbrush and spray bottle

Step 4: Clean the Filter

Most front-loading machines have a small door at the bottom front. Behind it is a filter that catches coins, buttons, and debris.

1. Place towels on the floor — water will come out
2. Open the cover and unscrew the filter slowly
3. Clean out whatever is inside (prepare to be disgusted)
4. Rinse the filter under running water
5. Replace and close the cover

Step 5: Run One More Hot Cycle

After cleaning all the parts, run one final hot empty cycle — this time with half a cup of baking soda. It deodorises and rinses everything clean.

Preventing the Smell from Coming Back

• Leave the door open after every wash — let the drum air out
• Use the right amount of detergent. More soap ≠ cleaner clothes. Follow the label
• Run a hot wash once a month — even just towels or bedsheets at 60°C kills bacteria
• Remove clothes immediately after the cycle ends — don't leave them sitting in the drum
• Wipe the rubber seal dry after each wash (front loaders)

Still Smelly?

If the smell persists after a thorough clean, the issue might be in the drain hose or pump — bacteria can colonise areas you can't reach easily. Easy Fix can deep clean your washing machine or check the drainage system to solve the problem for good.