Hey everyone, welcome back to Appliance Helpers! So, does your washer smell like dirty gym socks—or worse? Don’t worry. Today, I’ll explain why your washing machine smells and show you how to fix it fast.

First things first, let’s figure out why washers smell in the first place. The main causes are pretty simple.

Mold and mildew – Warm, damp environments are perfect for them.

Soap and fabric softener buildup – Residue traps dirt and bacteria.

Clogged drain or filter – Standing water makes odors worse.

Leaving wet clothes inside – We’ve all done it, but it stinks fast.

Alright, let’s get that washer smelling fresh again. Here’s what you should do—step by step.

Step 1: Clean the gasket
For front-load washers especially, the rubber gasket is a mold hotspot. Wipe it with a cloth soaked in vinegar or a mild bleach solution.

Step 2: Run a vinegar cycle
Next, run a hot cycle with two cups of white vinegar. This kills bacteria and loosens buildup.

Step 3: Baking soda boost
After that, run another hot cycle with half a cup of baking soda. This deodorizes and leaves your washer smelling clean.

Step 4: Clean the filter and drain
Don’t forget the filter. Pull it out, rinse it under hot water, and clear out any lint or gunk. This prevents standing water and future odors.

Step 5: Keep it dry
Finally, always leave the washer door open when it’s not in use. This lets it dry out and prevents mold from coming back.

And that’s it! Just a little vinegar, baking soda, and some regular cleaning, and your washer will smell as good as new.

If this video helped you, hit that like button, subscribe to Appliance Helpers for more quick fixes, and drop a comment—what’s the worst smell you’ve ever had come from your washer? Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you in the next one!