Get rid of bad odour in the washing machine

Is there anything worse than a smelly washing machine?

After all, it's something you use to get your clothes clean. However, if your washing machine has a bad odour, it doesn't seem very likely that your laundry will come out clean. But don't worry! We've prepared some simple tips to get rid of bad odour in your washing machine.

What actually causes bad odour in the washing machine?

It's because all the dirt washed off your clothes can, over time, get stuck in various parts of the washing machine. As we have become more environmentally conscious, we have started washing at lower temperatures. Good for the environment, but unfortunately, it can increase the risk of bacterial growth in the washing machine.

7 quick tips to get rid of bad odour in the washing machine

1. Clean the detergent drawer

Most washing machine manufacturers recommend cleaning the detergent drawer regularly. However, it's easy to neglect it as long as the machine works as it should. When the washing machine starts to smell musty, it is a simple first step to tackle the bad odour.

To easily clean the detergent drawer, pull the drawer out completely. Use, for example, an old toothbrush to scrub away any mould and detergent residues. If there are stubborn stains on the drawer, we recommend soaking the whole drawer in warm water for a few hours.

Once you have removed all stains, it is very important to let the entire drawer dry thoroughly before putting it back.

2. Run an empty machine on high heat

To ensure all bacteria inside the machine die, run the machine empty and at the highest possible temperature, preferably 90 degrees. Use a normal dose of laundry detergent before starting the machine.

This doesn't require much energy and can advantageously be done at least every month or every other month, depending on how often you wash.

3. Clean the rubber seal

A common place for dirt and bacteria to gather is the rubber seal around the door opening. In a perfect world, you would clean this part of the washing machine after every wash. However, not many have the energy to do this so often. Cleaning the seal every other month can be a good starting point.

Put some cleaning agent on a washing sponge and scrub inside the entire rubber seal to remove all the dirt hiding in there.

4. Vinegar against bad odour

A very popular home remedy is to use vinegar to tackle bad odours in the washing machine. It neutralises bad smells but also removes limescale deposits. A little spa treatment for your washing machine, in other words!

Pour 3 dl of vinegar into the detergent drawer and run a 90-degree programme. After the programme has finished, it's important to leave the door open to let the machine dry properly.

5. Use correct dosing

By using the right amount of detergent each wash, you significantly reduce the risk of detergent residues sticking inside the machine and causing bad smells. Grumme has prepared a good guide for using the right amount of detergent.

6. Hang up laundry quickly

Even the best of us sometimes leave the clean, wet laundry in the machine for several hours after the programme has finished!

However, don't make it a habit. It can contribute to the washing machine starting to smell sour and musty afterwards.

7. Leave the door open

Last but not least, leave the door open after the programme has finished. The same applies to the detergent drawer. It is a simple way to avoid mould growth.

Try to make it a habit to let the washing machine dry properly in between uses. If you don't have small children or pets at home, you can keep the door open all the time when you are not using the machine.

There you go! Now your washing machine should smell nice again! These 7 steps can be repeated regularly to prevent bad odour in the washing machine from returning.

Cleaning the washing machine is often something you easily postpone. Then you end up with a long list of chores to do. Everything from cleaning the fridge, bathroom tiles or shower walls.

That's where Stadade Hem comes in.

When your list gets too long and you feel like you can't keep up, just contact us for deep cleaning in Stockholm.

Treat yourself to the luxury of a really clean home without lifting a finger!