A musty-smelling washing machine can turn laundry day into a headache—and leave your rental property smelling less than fresh. Whether you’re a landlord maintaining appliances between tenants or a homeowner tackling stubborn odors, this guide will help you eliminate washing machine smells for good.
Why Your Washing Machine Smells (And Why It Matters for Landlords)
Common causes of washing machine odors:
✔ Mold & mildew buildup in damp seals and detergent drawers
✔ Bacteria growth from cold-water washes and leftover detergent
✔ Clogged drains or filters trapping grime and debris
For landlords: A smelly washer is one of the top tenant complaints—and can even lead to negative reviews or lease breaks. Regular maintenance prevents costly appliance replacements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Deodorizing Your Washing Machine
- Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar
What you need: 2 cups white vinegar
Steps:
- Pour vinegar into the detergent dispenser
- Run a hot water cycle (no laundry).
- Wipe down the drum and seals afterward.
Why it works: Vinegar kills bacteria and dissolves detergent residue.
- Scrub Hidden Mold & Grime
What you need: vinegar and lemon
Target areas:
- Rubber door seals (pull back and scrub with a slice of lemon)
- Detergent/bleach dispenser trays (remove and soak in vinegar)
- Drain pump filter (check your manual for location)
- Use Baking Soda for Deep Cleaning
What you need: ½ cup baking soda
Steps:
- Add baking soda to the drum.
- Run another hot cycle.
- Leave the door open to dry completely.
- Prevent Future Odors
✅ Leave the door/drawer open after washes to air out moisture
✅ Use less detergent (excess soap causes buildup)
✅ Clean monthly—add it to your rental property maintenance checklist
Landlord Pro Tips
✔ Include washer care instructions in tenant move-in guides
✔ Schedule deep cleans between tenants (or hire a pro)
✔ Consider odor-resistant models for new purchases (e.g., LG SteamWasher)
When to Call a Professional
- If smells persist after cleaning, you may need:
- Drain line servicing (for clogged pipes)
- Seal/gasket replacement (if mold is embedded)
How We Help Landlords Maintain Appliances
At Greater Boston Property Management, we:
🔹 Inspect and clean appliances during turnovers
🔹 Provide tenants with maintenance guides
🔹 Handle repair calls for malfunctioning washers
Need Help Keeping Your Rental Appliances Fresh?
Contact us at 617.394.8341 for hassle-free property maintenance!