Why does my washing machine smell?

Mold in the door gasket, soap scum in the drum, or a clogged filter. Clean all three areas and leave the door open between loads.

Can I use bleach to clean my washing machine?

Yes, but not with vinegar at the same time. Run a bleach cycle on hot, then follow with a vinegar cycle separately.

Yes. White vinegar is safe for all washing machine types and effectively dissolves mineral deposits and soap scum.

Check your manual for the filter location (usually at the bottom front). Unscrew the cover, remove debris, rinse the filter, and replace.

Household

A clean washing machine makes a bigger difference than you'd think. Here's the most effective method, plus the mistakes most people make.

1
Run a hot vinegar cycle
Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser and run an empty hot water cycle. This dissolves soap scum and mineral deposits.
2
Scrub with baking soda
Sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot cycle. This deodorizes and removes remaining residue.
3
Clean the gasket and dispensers
Pull back the rubber door gasket on front-loaders and wipe out trapped grime with vinegar and a cloth. Remove and scrub detergent dispensers.
4
Wipe the exterior
Clean the outside, door, and control panel with Vibes Multi-Surface Cleaner and a microfiber cloth.

TIPLeave the door ajar after every wash to let the drum dry and prevent mold growth -- especially critical for front-loaders.
TIPClean the filter trap monthly. It catches coins, hair, and lint that reduce drainage and cause odors.
TIPUse the right amount of detergent. More soap doesn't mean cleaner clothes -- it means more residue inside the machine.

XNever cleaning the rubber gasket on front-loaders, which is the number one source of washer mold and odor.
XUsing too much detergent regularly, which leaves soap scum buildup that traps bacteria and causes smells.
XClosing the door immediately after every wash, which traps moisture and creates a mold-friendly environment.

Run a cleaning cycle monthly. Wipe the gasket and dispensers weekly. Leave the door open after every load.