A washing machine collects detergent residue, fabric softener film, lint, body oils, and trapped moisture. Front-loaders are especially prone to musty odor because the rubber door seal holds water after loads.
This applies to front-load and top-load washers from Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, Maytag, GE, Speed Queen, and similar brands.
Does this affect you?
Use this if the washer smells musty, leaves film on clothes, has a slimy detergent drawer, or has not had a cleaning cycle in months.
Run a cleaning cycle
- Empty the drum completely.
- Select Tub Clean, Affresh, Self Clean, Sanitize, or the hottest longest empty cycle.
- Add a washing-machine cleaner tablet, or use 2 cups white vinegar in the dispenser plus 1/2 cup baking soda in the drum.
- Run the cycle empty.
- Wipe the drum afterward with a damp cloth.
- Leave the door or lid open for several hours.
Clean the front-load door seal
- Pull back the rubber gasket and inspect the hidden folds.
- Wipe with equal parts water and white vinegar, or use a mild bleach solution for stubborn mold.
- Scrub spots with an old toothbrush.
- Clear small drain holes at the bottom if present.
- Rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
- Leave the door open between loads.
Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or other cleaners. Use one cleaner at a time, ventilate the room, wear gloves with bleach, and keep products away from children and pets.
Clean the detergent drawer
- Pull the drawer out using the release tab or catch.
- Soak it in warm water with dish soap for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Scrub detergent, softener, and siphon tube buildup.
- Use a flashlight to inspect the drawer cavity.
- Wipe buildup from the cavity.
- Rinse, dry, and reinstall the drawer.
Too much detergent feeds residue and odor. Use the recommended amount, especially in HE machines. After a deep clean, run a monthly hot maintenance cycle to keep buildup from returning.
Sources
- Whirlpool – How to Clean a Washing Machine (2025)
- LG – Tub Clean Cycle Instructions (2025)
- Samsung – Removing Odor from Front Load Washers (2024)