Clean the Washer Tub: Clean the tub once a month to keep the wash basket free from soap and fabric softener residue that can build up and cause an odor. For models with a BasketClean cycle: Use the BasketClean cycle and 1 cup of bleach or a commercially available product manufactured for this purpose.

To Clean and Get Rid of Odors Inside of the Washer

1. Set the washer to fill with hot water and select the longest wash cycle.
2. Add a 1 cup of bleach (baking soda or vinegar can be substituted).
3. Allow the washer to complete an entire wash and rinse cycle.
4. If an odor lingers, repeat the entire process.

Unfortunately there's no guarantee that you can prevent mold from developing in a front load washer. Your best bet. Follow these tips.

Due to the nature of a front loading washing machine's design, there is a rubber gasket that lines the door. This prevents leakage but is also a breeding ground for bacteria and mold to build. Any residual water left in the machine has nowhere to go which is how mold and mildew forms causing the machine to smell.

If the transmission is locked up or the pulley is worn or damaged, the belt can slip on the pulley and produce a burning rubber smell. Inspect the drive pulley for any wear or damage and replace as necessary.

Then your washer has a pump filter. Using a small screwdriver or coin open the pump filter access.

Solutions When a Washing Machine Smells Like Rotten Eggs This is one of the most common causes of a front-load washer smell. You can clean the seal of your washer with a mixture of water and vinegar, which will remove debris without harming the rubber. The next issue could be related to your drain or pump.

This is often due to mold and mildew buildup in the gasket around the door. You must regularly clean the gasket to stop your front load washer from smelling.

Sprinkle 1/3 cup baking soda in an empty washer drum. Pour 2 cups white vinegar in the detergent tray. Run a cleaning cycle or regular wash with hot water. For persistent mildew, pour 2cups bleach in the bleach dispenser and run a second wash cycle.

Every time you finish a load in your washer, keep the door open instead of closing it - yes, even if you're not using it. Gazzo says the fresh air will cause the water to evaporate faster, ultimately ensuring your washer stays dry and mold-free and your clothes smell the way you want them to.

Sprinkle 1/3 cup baking soda in an empty washer drum. Pour 2 cups white vinegar in the detergent tray. Run a cleaning cycle or regular wash with hot water. For persistent mildew, pour 2cups bleach in the bleach dispenser and run a second wash cycle.

And 15 percent of front-loaders were cited for odor, compared with 5 percent of HE top-loaders and 2 percent of top-load agitator washers. Mold can develop in various parts of the washer, including in the dispensers and the rubber gasket around the opening.