Get Rid of Front Loader Washer Stink!

While doing the laundry can be thankless, it can now be "stank"-less as well! Get your front loader smelling - and performing - like new again!
#laundry #washingmachine #frontloadwashingmachine
Do you love your front loader washer, but it gets really stinky? Don't just cover up odors - we'll show you how to eliminate them and keep the stench at bay!
There are 3 main areas in your washer where odors can start - they are all easy to access and quickly get rid of moisture where mold and bacteria can really flourish.
If you have a REALLY stinky washer now, spritz the three areas with highly diluted bleach water (a teaspoon in a standard spray bottle filled with water) before wiping them down, as well as running a complete cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar being put in the dispenser area.
If you have a method you use that has worked really well for you, share it in the comments below!

[@biddydibdab9180]

I used to have a top loading Maytag and my clothes never smelled over the 30+ years I used it. I never had to go through the hassles described in this video. Now I have a front loader and the clothes always stink. Funny that our labour saving conveniences just give us extra work.

[@petrusslaghekke485]

Just leave the door open after washes to air it out. Never fully close the door when not washing clothes.

[@americacachetona8019]

@@petrusslaghekke485 ido leave it open, but… I guessI need dry it too?

[@UsandEveryoneWeKnow]

How weird, this is the only type of washing machine that I've ever known in the UK, and none I've had ever had a bad smell. Out of interest do you use liquid or powder detergent?

[@biddydibdab9180]

@@UsandEveryoneWeKnow Liquid.

[@UsandEveryoneWeKnow]

@@biddydibdab9180 that might build up a gunk inside, I've only ever used powder myself. Who knows, a theory though.

[@franklinkarrass5830]

These companies should supply this info in the manual, or a separate leaflet when you make the purchase. I found this extremely valuable. Thank you.

[@hansgrubber5753]

Jay, here is another good tip. When you pull the Landry detergent tray out, look at the inside with a flash light at the ceiling of the tray slot reservoir and you will find tons of mold and mildew in there. Took me about 2 hours to clean it when I first discovered it. Nobody ever bothers to look at the reservoir ceiling and they normally just look down the detergent reservoir. I used a Clorox mold and mildew shower cleaner with a long firm bristle brush due to my hand and forearm being too big to fit in the reservoir opening. Any strong household cleanser will do as well. I prefer a cleaner with bleach to help kill the stuck on mold and mildew. After cleaning my washer reservoir I ran my HE washer in a clean cycle to get rid of any cleaning chemicals that went down the reservoir.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Great tip! Thanks for the info. I looked this morning when I pulled out the drawer and there was nothing. Whew!! I'll keep checking on a regular basis from now on! Best to you, Dirt Farmer Maggie

[@lmo1131]

@@DirtFarmerJay I just checked ours. WHOA! Nasty, nasty, nasty. .. . This is not going to be fun....

[@stephenbrown7545]

@@lmo1131 You can try spray bleach and a circular brush like you use for cleaning the wheels on your car.

[@DustinBarlow8P]

Good call, I looked in mine and the mass of gunk, opened it's eyes and said it wanted my soul! Lol not really but it was a mound. Welp back to it, good luck with your Score at Nakatomi Tower!

[@angelistringfellow]

@@DustinBarlow8P 🤣🤣🤣

[@ercost60]

Thanks, you just talked me into keeping my old top loader washer going for another 20 years. Much easier than all this daily nonsense maintenance.

[@michaell6645]

This is over kill. I have same model as his, you basically just leave door open to dry after the last wash of the day, add cleaner tablets every few months.

[@michaell6645]

Also, these front loaders can do a load of towels wash and dry in about 30 min total, and 1 last min outfit in about 20.

[@Sheila-cm4jy]

Well, ercost60, you can keep it another 20 years as long as it doesn't break down and you can no longer get parts! That's what happens to old appliances - they work great until something breaks and can't be fixed! I'm nursing a GE toploader along in its 19th year and cross my fingers every time I do a load that this will not be my last and I have to shop for a new front loader! ;)

[@fishhead3333]

If you are washing daily, you will not have to do all this because mold or smell will not have time to form. When you only wash like once a week you need to do this.

[@crand20033]

@@michaell6645 True, I do that I and don't have any mold.

[@5lo0odee]

I don’t know why KZbin recommended this video to me, but it might’ve been the best recommendation of the month! Thank you!

[@jmatt98]

KZbin knows you have a stinky washer

[@yosemitesam9322]

@@jmatt98 😂

[@JohnRice-qp6on]

If you push down on the blue tab in the soap dispenser, you can pull the entire drawer out. This allows complete cleaning of the dispenser and the “cave” in which it resides.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Dvr Jon - you are correct. We do that as well and in retrospect, it would have been additive to include that in the video. Thanks for your insight! Best, DFJ

[@brucetalley3798]

I remove the dispenser drawer after my last load is finished, and I leave the washer door open with a fan blowing air into the washer while my last load is in the dryer.

[@malcolmgeffon8072]

Bruce Talley how do you remove it?

[@JohnRice-qp6on]

@@malcolmgeffon8072 Go to 2:30 on the video. Look at the blue tabs inside the drawer. One is labeled "Push". Push it down, and pull the entire drawer out. When replacing, you have to insert the drawer and again, push the blue tab down, then push the drawer all the way in. Release the tab, and the drawer stays in place.

[@brucetalley3798]

@@malcolmgeffon8072 My machine is made by Whirlpool. I pull out the dispenser tray until it stops. On the top of the tray near the back there is a raised tab that prevents it from sliding out any further, but I can push the tab down (it actually has the word "PUSH" printed on the tab), and while holding it down I can continue sliding the tray forward and remove it completely from the machine. To reinstall, I simply align the tray in the slots and push it back in.

[@gregsimpson621]

LG says not to use vinegar! Use bleach in the bleach dispenser and use the "tub clean" monthly. I do that monthly, along with draining the water from the reservoir and filter. And, your correct that LG recommends wiping the door glass after every wash. It also has a magnetic on the door so it stays slightly open. Good video.

[@1DaTJo]

I just watched this and then went and cleaned my FL with carb soda and white vinegar at midnight. Although I always leave the door open between washes, there was definitely sludge in the door seals etc. Thank goodness I watched this - I had no clue!

[@politicaljunkie4ever]

I always leave the door open after a load. Never had a problem. Easy peasy.

[@ron0126]

Same here. We also have a fan in the laundry room that blows air towards the washer.

[@VladTheImpalerTepesIII]

I do the same when I dump a load. :)

[@JohnHill-qo3hb]

@@VladTheImpalerTepesIII I laughed so hard now I have to get rid of a load....

[@VladTheImpalerTepesIII]

@@JohnHill-qo3hb Remember to keep the door open when you're done.

[@OneLiterPeter]

Bingo, been doing that for the last 8-10 years or so. Never a problem.

[@lauragillespie189]

Oh, my, goodness, I’ve never cleaned that little drawer - in 4 years! Now I’m scared to open it! My washer is getting CLEANED today! So much appreciate your video.

[@krissp8712]

How did it go? :)

[@len9483]

@@krissp8712 I think she died from the smell? Maybe someone should check?

[@FirstYT40]

Thank you sir for this video. I cleaned the filter and that was the source of the odor. I had been cleaning the other areas you mentioned and the moldy odor still lingered. I couldn't believe how much grime the filter had when I pulled it out. My only struggle was my washer wasn't high off of the ground as yours so it was a bit challenging when I got to working on it (that's where I saw the notice about changing the filter every two months lol). I managed to find a fairly flat tray that I found around the house to catch the water. It was quite a spill initially so there a lot of wiping up water. But I'm so thankful that I came across your video!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

FirstYT40, you're welcome. We're glad we could help and you found the source of the problem in your machine. Also, if your machine has a "tub clean" cycle, use that from time to time, either with a commercial machine wash product or bleach water in the tub, to clean out the inner tub. Junk can really build up there as well. Thanks for writing! Best, DFJ

[@galechicago325]

Our apartment has all the latest and greatest stuff. The front load washer that’s smelly. The toilets that have to be flushed 3 times. The low flow shower head that takes 28 minutes to rinse my hair. The “Nest” thermostat that turns off the heat or a/c for the entire apartment except when someone walks past the thermostat, then it turns on. The fire alarm that goes off when there is no fire, cooking or smoke. The burglar alarm that runs down “10-year” batteries every six months. Luckily we have many good maintenance men who work here! Because it takes a village to keep an apartment in good working order!

[@rhollyday]

Front loaders use much less water, so they don't rinse well. This is why they require "HE" soap to rinse out easier, but even with HE detergent it still doesn't rinse out all of the soap. The residue of soap and dirt that's left behind feeds fungus and causes the stink. The residue is not just in the machine, it's in the clothes too. They stink when they get damp. Pollution laws took the phosphorus out of the consumer laundry detergents and made it much harder to rinse, even though commercial laundries still use phosphate detergent. Add the "power of phosphates" back into the detergent by adding 1 teaspoon of trisodium phosphate (TSP) to the wash tub before each load. Clothes are cleaner because all the soap and dirt rinses out completely. The washing machine doesn't stink because the phosphorus kills fungus and rinses away all the residue that acts as food for germs. For those who have tried everything else, like leaving the washer door open, special cleaning cycle with cleaning tablets, bleach, vinegar, borax, none of it really stops the smell. TSP works! Just make sure you use the real, plain old TSP in the red box, not the "phosphate-free TSP" in the green box.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Rich, thanks for the great insights. Best, DFJ

[@marzander1]

Rich do I add it in the drum , or can I put it in the soap dispenser along with the powdered detergent?

[@apAvocado]

@@marzander1 put it in the drum

[@sandymagnan8823]

We had a top loader Maytag for over 35 years that never had a single problem. Raised two kids and you know how much cloths went thru that machine . . . TONS ! All we ever did was put clothes in, put detergent in . . . . and turn it on. This top loader never ever stunk up the laundry room or the house with funky moldy rotten smells. A few months ago we made the mistake of buying a new Maytag front loader and donated the old reliable top loader to the good will store. Our new front loader starts to smell like an open sewer after a few days of not being used. We tried running it empty with a quart of bleach as a disinfectant. That worked until we ran the next load thru it and then after a few days the stink comes back. We tried leaving the door open, but then the inside light and control panel stay on continuously. Plus the open door gets in the way of people walking thru the laundry room. Don't know what to do with this machine. Maybe we will try powdered detergent. We are very disappointed with this new Maytag

[@MKD-dd6ng]

They SUCK, plain and simple. Spin the drum out as much as possible. Keeps water from sitting in there. We do it after we take our clothes out. The door should just sit up against the latch without closing. Most are magnetic. Let's some air flow in. Follow videos suggestions. I was told by an appliance guy to do it every 2 weeks. The more, the BETTER. He said keep the bottom drained, and run those cleaners in them. (Affresh tablets or the liquid bleach stuff by clorox) It's a maintenance cleaner. Anyways, good luck. If I ever find an oldschool washer again....I'm gonna jump on it and hang on with dear life!!!!!!😞🤕

[@cleme2558]

You have also changed your washing style. At least one or more loads a day compared to 1 or two a week. Just saying. I just run drain and spin cycle.

[@michaeladamcik7475]

I had top loader Maytag for 33 yrs. Now a front loader. Worse machine ever. Getting a top loader Maytag or Speedqueen.

[@orithfrankel2151]

I not only keep the door of the machine open after I’m finished using it, I unplug it easily from the wall each time, so no light remains on and there’s no current running through it in the off hours.

[@apAvocado]

@@orithfrankel2151 That's very smart! By doing that, you are preventing power surges and lightning from destroying your machine.

[@patricialopez7830]

I can't tell you how much this helped. Thanks so much. I love my fron loader!

[@princessrejoicing9097]

Did all of the suggestions for keeping the washer clean and wiped down, using a small amount of detergent, and also removing all the excess moisture.... didn’t change a thing!!! Washer still stunk! BUT... the ONE thing that finally made my washer not stink AT ALL was switching to powder laundry detergent. I think that will work for everyone still struggling with a stinky washer. Give it a try!😊

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Sharon, thanks for sharing your experience and helping get the word out! As a matter of practice, we too use only powdered detergent, in addition to making sure let the machine dry out between laundry days, and running a tub wash cycle with bleach water about every month. Thanks for taking time to write! Best, DFJ

[@Anamarie157]

@@DirtFarmerJay I agree with all these tips, I always use powder instead of thick washing liquid detergent...but people who have just switched over may need to do a few hot 90 degree washes to get rid of existing build up... It's the thick liquid detergent that is the main cause of sludge build up..

[@judyhuber5093]

We did the same thing, BIG difference.

[@Marlene-ii9zw]

Thank you, will give a try

[@printme2010]

I am so happy - SOMEBODY actually did a video with the same washer I have!!! YAY!!!❤

[@regalianpeaches1]

Thank you! lots of good tips I didn't know about... especially the filter!

[@mariacuevas8331]

I'm so happy to hear someone that DOESN'T suggest mixing vinegar and baking soda. My faith in humanity is restored

[@mistenaelliott8307]

Why?

[@zowie8888able]

I've used that combination for easily cleaning things like greasy oven doors. I'm interested to know why not a washing machine.

[@AxlAX]

They cancel each other out, duh. Believe the science people.

[@mpp7010]

I’ve had my front loader about 3 years, pretty happy with it, never looked under that rubber gasket until today, it was a horror show! Cleaned it out best I could.

[@karilynn3535]

Bought my first front loader 15 years ago...salesman taught me these tricks at the time of purchase....never had a stinky problem....

[@RosemaryTomlinson-Morris-wi5qb]

That’s an exceptional person to teach you those things!

[@jenniferjames7786]

I watched a bunch of videos on how to clean a front loader, and this was the best one. Thank you! Super helpful!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks so much Jennifer James. I appreciate your compliment. Best to you. DFJ

[@1SapphireBlue]

You did a great job explaining how to stink proof your LG washer. I just did the drain cleaning yesterday before I saw your video. One important tip, be sure to tighten the filter very tightly!! Once I did not do it tight enough. The first time I did a load my 4 year old grandson was visiting and was in our basement. He came up the stairs and asked me why it was raining in the basement. Needless to say we had a huge mess on our hands!!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad I could help! Sorry to hear of your "adventure!" Thanks for the tip! Best Regards, DFJ

[@TheSunGoethDown]

I am just finding this video in Feb 2020. I have had my front loader for 10 years and never knew about that filter! My washer had a smell even with keeping the door open. I paused the video and went to check my filter. Ewww! It was all gunked up! I found a dime though! Thanks for this video!

[@orithfrankel2151]

🤣😆🤣🤪

[@miniliebenberg9644]

I followed your advice today. I have the same machine! I didn’t even know I had that tube to drain the filter. I always put towels under the machine to catch the water. Thank you. I’ll let you know if our washing smells any different.

[@philipzanoni]

Thank you Robert what a wonderful deal I'll be doing all of those things when I get home cir and I'll let you know have a great day sir God bless you

[@jamnfred]

I have the same front loading washer in your video. Thank you for the tips.

[@cynbillings]

Excellent, quick, straightforward video. I performed all the tasks-and yes, the lower left secret door area is skanky!! But now I’ll do it more frequently! Our washer was so bad the laundry room smelled and the clothes nearly smelled worse than when I put them in there! Thanks for the quick DIY video!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

cynbillings, Glad it helped! Make sure to run the tub cleanse cycle 2 or 3 times a year with either bleach in the tub (about a cup), or a product made for that (Clorox has one that is usually on the shelf at the grocery store). This goes after the build up in the outer tub - the one behind the tub you see when you open the door. Build up commonly occurs in there and this is the way to assure the whole system really stays fresh. Glad to hear you don't need to plug your nose when you go into the laundry room any more! Be sure to subscribe if you haven't already! Best Regards, DFJ

[@Libertygal74]

We’ve owned ours for 11 years. I leave the door open 24/7. Pretty soon our clothes and towels were starting to smell NASTY. I ended up replacing the door boot seal. Better now! I will try these tips to hopefully keep it from getting so nasty again.

[@AndyB718]

Thankyou for the video and Education. I just drained what smelled like lowtide water,cleaned the filter and ran the machine with white vinegar as suggested .

[@strutman3]

Thank you -- had this washer 7 years and never cleaned or even knew about that filter! LOL. Big difference!

[@scotthamilton007]

Bet you smelled like a moldy-ass sock for six years. Now you just smell like a stinky kitchen sponge. Viva la difference!

[@kaohsiung99]

@@scotthamilton007 Tell it like it is!

[@SphereMaster001]

I just bought a 5 year old washer that the smell is caked on - were you able to get rid of the smell?

[@koopasayer5999]

@@SphereMaster001 do a cycle of bleach

[@jinnyl38]

Great video Jay. Thank you. I also had a terrible smell coming from my front-loading LG washer that I couldn't make go away. When I finally inspected the folds inside the rubber gasket I was surprised to see a lot of mold. This prompted me to go through the ordeal of removing the gasket entirely for a better look. I'm glad I did because there was an enormous amount of mold and mildew in the folds and crevices on both sides of the gasket. For those of you out there who, like me, failed to properly maintain your washing machine, you might want to think about thoroughly cleaning or replacing your gasket. There are thorough videos on KZbin that show you how to do so. (Pro-tip: you'll need to buy a spring expander tool if you value your sanity.)

[@kennethramsey4699]

Thanks for the real! I may just send my laundry out! Thanks for letting me know about this!

[@rachel9725]

Thank you so much. This video was incredibly helpful.

[@honeyc7771]

Oh my goodness!!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! Knowledge is power indeed! I had done everything I knew to do but for some reason I never even acknowledged the little door on the front at the bottom of the washer. I cleaned it out today for the first time in three years and the smell about knocked me over. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I am so glad I saw this video. God Bless you!!!!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

You are so welcome!! Glad we could help! Best, DFJ and Dirt Farmer Maggie.

[@user-li4hn3nb3z]

Thank you so much Jay! You are my life savor during dog shedding season! LoL!

[@TroyFutureExpat]

Thanks for the info. I'll be doing this to ours. About 1 month old now.

[@vincentrobinette1507]

This is good advice. I do EXACTLY the same thing with our Electrolux washer, and have NEVER had a problem. If you're in a hurry, at least, leave the door ajar. I always dry out the door gasket as well. My 'lux doesn't have a removable filter. it back flushes automatically, so it's self cleaning. We've had ours for a year, and have had no problems.

[@rottierumbles9451]

Same also have an Electrolux, THE best washer I've ever owned , always leave the door open , NEVER had a problem with it smelling.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

New sub! So glad YT recommended you. I had no idea my washer had a filter to clean!!!

[@mattgrissop1005]

Yes only several washing machines have a filter. Also if your washing machine isn't draining all of the water out after a drain and spin ,take the little tube end out drain the water and take the filter out and clean it , if the filter is clogged ,after cleaning it you will see a world of difference on how much more the washer drains out.

[@mdev4544]

Buying refurbished washer and dryer! The old machines out perform the new models out today. Price is soooo reasonable and they come warranted!

[@NipkowDisk]

As others have said, leaving the door open will prevent the odor problem in the drum from occurring. I've had a Miele W4842 front-loader since 2010 and zero issues because I've always left the door ajar. Also shown in the video was a good tip on leaving the detergent dispenser at least partially out.

[@therealvirgoqueen6553]

Everytime I leave the door open I have to replace the door lock & it's getting nerve racking and expensive

[@michaelshetler2326]

Best video for explaining the routine maintenance/cleaning that should be done on a monthly basis of a front-loading washing machine. I had no clue(embarrassing to say) that the little door on the bottom front panel was a filter and drain for the gasket/bellows of the washing machine. Cleaning the gasket/bellows with a mild bleach solution and making sure that the small drain holes are not clogged with hair and sludgy debris definitely removed the mildew odor that we were experiencing. Next, I ran an empty load with just vinegar as recommended. Drying the door and gasket after each use is a good practice to do. Also, thoroughly cleaning the detergent and fabric softener dispenser helps to keep the soap buildup and scum from occurring. Ours was definitely in need of cleaning. Keeping the door open when not in use will help to dry out the drum, gasket/billows, and door. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! FYI DON"T USE OR MIX VINEGAR AND BLEACH AT THE SAME TIME AS THE COMBINATION WILL FORM A TOXIC CHLORINE GAS.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Don't be so hard on yourself Michael Shetler. The thing is that NOW you are educated and will never have to worry about washer stink in the future. Lifelong learners like you are the happiest people! I know, I'm married to one!! Best, Dirt Farmer Maggie

[@JA-jm8bk]

Vinegar added to oxygen bleach results in water, and if the solution is allowed to sit for several days, a fraction of a percent of peracetic acid, (a corrosive that can cause burns and respiratory irritation in high concentrations). So, when "bleach" is referenced, the distinction between oxygen bleach and chlorine bleach needs to be made!

[@kelleywellman8032]

Finally! Someone fixed my problem! Your demo machine is my machine so now I know EXACTLY what to do! Thank you!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad I could help! Best Regards, DFJ

[@karenmusic2166]

I have that same washer. The installation guy went over all of this with me. It is really easy to do and never had a problem. Love, love, love our washer!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for watching and writing Karen. Best to you. DFJ

[@mariechristensen8390]

Thank you I have that exact machine and was wondering what that door was😳 I will clean it today. Thanks again

[@eternalfizzer]

Egad! I thought I already had that nailed ... but didn't know about the filter *doh!* Thanks for the tip!

[@patricioaguayo9088]

This is the best advise so far,thank you

[@philipmontana9033]

Thank you so much! Cant wait to go home after work and get it unsmelly!!!

[@KevParlee]

You are the unsung hero that I aspire to be. thank you so much for the info

[@DirtFarmerJay]

ProbablyAFK, aw garsh. Thanks for watching and commenting! - DFJ

[@skybluespirit333]

Awesome! I just got one of these LG washers yesterday, and I have been wiping down the door and the gasket, and now you have taught me how to clean the rest of the machine! Thanks SO MUCH - I really appreciate it. BTW, the LG WM3400WC is a really nice washer!

[@ssampadian]

I have never wiped down my gasket but always leave the door ajar after washing. Never had a smell issue.

[@collinanderson335]

You should always run a clean cycle on your washer as well, because the gunk you see in the filter and in the seal is all on the tub on the inside of your machine. Run once a month with a couple cups of vinegar and it will surely help with any odour issues you have.

[@dorothydavidson5144]

👍

[@godchangedmylife-tedbetz19]

THANKS FOR YOUR HELP SIR - YOU ARE A GOOD MAN! MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!

[@wendywarnick1750]

I have had a high efficiency front loading washer for 25 years (an Asko) and it has never ever had a smell problem. When I got the machine I read the manual, which told me "Never leave the washer door closed when it is not in use." I followed the directions. I have cleaned the drain filter about 4 times in 25 years, and I run some vinegar through the machine (with my laundry) every once in awhile. No mold, no smell, ever. My washer has one feature that seems to be unique to the brand, and is different from any other front loaders I know about-the door seals directly to the drum and does not have a giant rubber gasket to collect moisture, hair, bacteria, and slime. Flawless operation for 25 years. #Ifeelblessed.

[@PrincessMicrowave]

What brand is that! I haaate my gasket. It is not simple to clean, it's nearly impossible to do it thoroughly

[@buca9696]

@@PrincessMicrowave to do a thorough cleaning of the gasket unfortunately you need to take the whole damn thing apart.

[@missmatt2010]

I believe this place to be the real location of most people smell problems due to the drain in the gasket

[@emmynicole99]

So helpful!!! Going to clean my washer right now lol! Much needed video. I was so worried about that stink!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Emily, glad we could help you! Be sure to subscribe for upcoming helpful videos like this one. Best to you and yours! DFJ

[@zapooka]

When he said the reservoir needs to be cleaned each month, I gulped... My family hasn't cleaned that out in at least a year. Ew!!

[@lonewulf0328]

Only a year? Mine hasn't been cleaned it before, and I've had the washer 10 years... I'm scared of what I'm gonna find, and the smell is bad enough I'm debating replacing the whole thing

[@DIGITAL7Media]

@@lonewulf0328 I know right.....I'm worried about what might be.....

[@naliaefil]

Ikr

[@edwarddmello9003]

Thanks for sharing, Jay. I have the exact same model and was able to clean my machine easily.

[@MichaelNewmanII]

This was so informative, I recently found the rubber seal grime...

[@anjali_1088]

I always leave the front door open, but these tips will be super helpful as well. Thank you!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad it was helpful! DFJ

[@ladyjz]

Thanks so much!! I bought a used set and truly love it, but that mildew odor was concerning! I appreciate your tips!

[@ifixit]

I fix appliances for a living. On these, I also take a Turkey baster with hot water in it and make sure the drain is open at the bottom of the boot by squirting the hot water into it several times.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

ifixit - what a great idea! Thanks for taking time to share your expertise! Best Regards, DFJ

[@Yardieboss]

Pro tip: on every cycle do an extra rinse. After removing the laundry leave open the drum and detergent doors. The stink is usually caused by remaining detergent and/ or fabric softener below the drum. Older washing machines used more water in a cycle so the usually didn’t stink. New eco friendly machines use so little water that softeners an detergents can build up and start to stink in the machine. Greetings from Germany :)

[@dannysanchez6625]

Love it Jay. Great job, my wife enjoyed how simple it is.

[@diannablong607]

Thank you that was so helpful I had no idea about the filter

[@robwray624]

This video was great! There was a repulsive smell coming from the machine and sure enough it was from the filter. The filter has never been cleaned… over 3 years. With two dogs and two kids in the family. Thank you!

[@dougprentice1363]

I'll keep my 1980 plain jane top loader.

[@amiegamble1678]

I use Odoban in my top loader and they helps w mold, mildew, antibacterial, etc. I bought a house that includes front loaders. In process of cleaning them and seeing how well they work.

[@JulianSloman]

I'd take it as a complement that the follow up video only got 50k views (means this one covered most people's question well enough!)

[@lynnelowe8461]

Brilliant. Just what I was looking for. Going to follow all your tips now. Thank you. X

[@frankbiz]

Great advice, thank you! 👍🏻

[@monicas2269]

I had this problem years ago and called someone out to renew the back drainage pipe because I thought that was the smell. I used to clean out the drawer and it's surprising how much washing powder and fabric softener stays in the drawer. The technician suggested putting any cleaning powder or gel directly into the machine. I have been doing this ever since ,plus I wipe the rubber seal every time I take washing out and the machines I have had since doing this, never smell. I never leave clothes stay in the machine, they are taken out immediately the cycle ends. I don't use fabric softener any more, only when hand washing. Although the machine or pipes used to smell, this never affected my clothes, they always smelled clean and fresh.

[@SK-qx7ri]

Hey I have watched so many tutorials and diy videos, yours by far simple to the point, short and sweet. Thank you. you've given me info that will probably save me from having to purchase a washing machine much sooner than needed.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad we could help S K. Be sure to switch to powdered detergent and dryer sheets instead of using liquids that will leave traces of tallow (animal fat) in your machine and make it stink! Best to you, Dirt Farmer Maggie

[@OhiominkCoates]

Thank you so much I was using my mother in law washer it stank so badly .you have saved us a lot of money. Again thank you!

[@aytviewer2421]

I have had the same front loading washer for 19 years now. Never had an issue with stink. I always do a white load with beach as my last load, and have always left the door open when done. Never had an issue...

[@toniwade4204]

Awesome tips.....trying them out today after I wash loads of vacation laundry. I never even knew what that little drawer down there was for!! Thanks for sharing 👌🏽

[@leslies.6292]

Thank you. I learned a lot. This will save me a service call.

[@yvonnesiber9803]

Good to know. I especially like knowing how often to clean the filters. Thank you for posting! Appreciate it very much!

[@gabriellah5933]

It’s recommended to clean filter and drain water once a month.

[@grandpatzer]

What an incredibly useful video! I have this exact same unit at home and experiencing odours and even mould growth. Now I know how to fix it. Thank you very much!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for watching and commenting Sean Lacap. If you have any other questions regarding the front loader you can send them directly to [e-mail].

[@djgrit7373]

😢😢

[@Aaron-xr4vv]

best video. exactly what i needed. thank you

[@shahnaallen2540]

I’m doing this right now! Thank you, Mr. Dirt.

[@meganrasey4377]

Thank you! Exactly what I needed!

[@cheatednomore6430]

Thank you so much for this easy to follow & simple to implement information. I just subscribed! You came up in my feed because my washer just flooded the garage. I found out why & reconnected the particular dislodged hose. Now I know to double the amount of vinegar to run through the system & will follow your other tips.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for subbing! We look forward to communication with you for a very long time!! Best to you, Dirt Farmer Maggie

[@bobc3895]

I only do one and occasionally two loads a week. Leaving the door open when the machine is not being used will solve most odor problems, the key is for the water to evaporate before anything starts to grow in it..

[@jfcustomfab]

This ☝️

[@msavina9129]

Excellent. I didnt know about the monthly filter. I asked previous homeowner to leave the manual to appliances n she didnt, or I suppose I wouldve known about that. Thanks. Excellent video.

[@verysuccessfulmom]

Thank you!!!!! We were literally going to toss them and get another set of used washer/dryer

[@retiredatlast6206]

Thank you for all this information! I just watched another video which showed another interesting item to clean on the front loader gasket. I always had 2 inches of standing water at the bottom of the rubber gasket and I thought what a bad design flaw that was! I would diligently paper-towel all the water out of the base of the rubber gasket to dry it all out and leave the door open, but my machine still smelled like 15 sewer rats lived in there. My machine is 9 years old and It came with the duplex when we purchased it 3 years ago. This other video showed that there is a little hole at the base of the gasket that must be cleaned out to allow drainage. Lol! I went to check mine and couldn’t even see the small hole until I started digging! We’ll see what happens when I do all these maintenance checks.

[@retiredatlast6206]

As an update - OMG! The mold and mildew in every crevice was unbelievable! I cleaned inside the rubber gasket, pulled out the detergent tray, pulled out the lower drain area and everything was black inside and out! 😳😳😳 All were scrubbed, I ran a bleach water-only load and left door open to air dry all night. I didn’t fully close the front door in the morning and opened it again at lunchtime - just fresh clean smells!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Yay!!!

[@05subisti]

I am glad that I found this video! My sister-in law's washer had an awful smell that made me gag! Thanks to this it is all cleaned out now. I did have to take the drain tube completely off of the filter because it was 100% plugged with sediment. Took forever to unclog it but it was worth it being fixed. Thank you!!

[@azizurkhan1153]

Great. Now I know, how to clean washer. Thank you .

[@misterjoe3]

Great advice - Thanks !!!

[@clmierau]

Good video, I do most of those things with ours but didn't know about that filter.Now I have to go and look. Thanks.

[@SteveMillerhuntingforfood]

I bet when you pulled that filter it was really full.

[@susanhutchinson5305]

Yes I leave the door open too!

[@kathleenolsen9590]

Holy crap! I had no idea what that little door on the bottom left was (& that there were areas for me to clean in there). Thank you!!!

[@cokeqnutbuttah1794]

Thank you for this! I NEVER knew I was suppose to do this. Smh

[@sjws89]

I took peroxide and dumped it inside the gasket, right in the front, where the small drain hole is, to soften up the gunk accumulated there. It puddles badly in that spot because the drain hole gets thick with slime prohibiting water flowing down the hole. I took a brush to try and break up the mildew and gunk in that area, and then took canned air inserting the tube down the hole to blow any clogs loose. I blew air all over in the front gasket area to further eliminate slimy mold and mildew that was sitting there. Then, wiped it well with water and bleach and ran hot water in that area. Ran a cleaning cycle too. Took Farmers advice and wipe down the door and gasket with a cloth and will do so after the final laundry load of each day. I keep the door wide open whenever I can.

[@cathydillon2927]

sjws89 THANK YOU very MUCH . Yours is the first comment I have seen that mentions the exact problem I am seeing. Love the idea of canned air. I am SURE that my same little outlet must be terribly clogged. I discovered standing water in that area of the bottom of the big rubber gasket, at the end of the tub clean cycle using the fancy dancy oxy-cleaner. I have been struggling to figure out how to clean that tube which must be the drain. The clog is probably dog hair, in my case, and I am a bit worried about just shoving it in tighter and tighter. It seems that I need something to dissolve (or remove) the hair, rather than just packing it together until it becomes a total blockage. I will also try a small / tiny Bristle brush and perhaps a tweezers. Looks like I need bristle brushes in several sizes. Bristle brush should also work well for 'ceiling of' the soap dispenser and the " drain filter". I will try removal of whatever is gumming up the works First - and them I will try " dissolve" and as a final step push through.

[@bethwaitrovich2100]

Dirt Farmer Jay is correct! I also always leave the door open after a load but odor still occurs unless the places he described are cleaned on a regular basis.

[@animallife3038]

The stink is gone! Thanks for the great tips. That bottom drain was the biggest culprit...

[@swebster78]

Thank you SO much for this information!

[@stevenprice2729]

I do all of this regularly, most of which is detailed in the machine manual. One caution, I was pressing down too hard wiping the bottom on the big gasket (as you showed), eventually poking a hole from abrasion on a part sticking up underneath. Wipe gently! A repair guy said only LE models had this unfortunate situation.

[@UTAH100]

yes

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for the warning on this potential problem!

[@gill834]

just cleaned the filter at the bottom,it really smelled bad but all good to go now,thankyou x

[@porfiriomendoza4187]

Thank you,. I did what you said to do with my washer, now it's clean...

[@noplanetb2293]

What a clear , concise explanation...to the point...Thank You :)

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much for watching and commenting. We love to hear from our viewers! Best, DFJ