Front Load Washer Smells: Causes and How to Fix It

Front load washers seal tightly, which saves water but traps moisture. In Greer's humid summers, a musty smell can appear quickly.

Where the smell comes from

• The rubber door boot, where water and lint sit in the folds
• The detergent drawer and its housing
• The pump filter and drain path
• Residue from too much detergent or fabric softener

How to clear it

1. Wipe inside the door boot folds with a mild cleaner and dry them.
2. Remove and rinse the detergent drawer.
3. Clean the pump filter at the lower front of the washer.
4. Run the Tub Clean or Self Clean cycle with a washer cleaner.

How to keep it away

• Use the recommended HE detergent dose; Greer's soft water needs less.
• Leave the door and drawer ajar between loads.
• Move wet laundry out promptly.
• Run a cleaning cycle monthly.

When it is a repair

If the smell returns quickly and the washer drains slowly, the pump or drain path may be partly blocked. A torn door boot can also hold dirty water. Tyger River Appliance handles front load washer repair in Greer and nearby towns. Call (864) 428-6288 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.