A musty or mildew smell in your washer is caused by trapped moisture and detergent buildup, especially in front-load machines. Mold grows in the door gasket, detergent drawer, and drum. The good news: it is usually fixable with cleaning and a few habit changes, not a repair.
Why it happens
Front-loaders seal tightly, so water and residue sit in the rubber door gasket and drum between washes. Using too much detergent or only cold water makes it worse. Over time that film grows mold and bacteria that smell.
How to fix the smell
- Wipe the door gasket and remove debris from its folds
- Run a hot cycle with a washer cleaner or vinegar
- Clean the detergent drawer and drain-pump filter
- Use less detergent, and HE detergent in HE machines
- Leave the door and drawer open between washes to dry out
When it’s a repair
If the smell comes with standing water or a slow drain, the drain pump or filter may be clogged — that’s a repair, not just cleaning. We can clear it and check the pump if the odor won’t go away.
Lawrenceville coupon
Service Call Fee WAIVED With Any Repair
A $79–$129 value — you pay only for the repair. Just mention this coupon when you call or book.
Rather have a pro handle it?
Our Lawrenceville technicians give you the exact price before any work — and the service call fee is waived when we do the repair.