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Ways to remove smell from clothes in washing machine
Samira Vishwas | August 23, 2026 8:24 PM CST

Why do clothes smell?

Many times, in a hurry or by mistake, we leave wet clothes in the washing machine for a long time. When we open the machine, a strange smell starts coming from the clothes. This problem occurs when clothes remain in a moist and closed place for a long time, due to which bacteria and fungus start growing in them.

Due to leaving clothes in the machine for a long time

When wet clothes remain in the closed drum of the machine, they remain warm and soft. Due to lack of air, fungus and bacteria start growing.

solution to the problem

Immediately after washing the clothes, put them in the sun or in a ventilated place to dry. If clothes are left out for a long time, run the machine without detergent by adding half a teaspoon of vinegar.

closing the machine door immediately

After taking out clothes, closing the machine door may cause a smell.

What to do

After removing the clothes, leave the door open for 15 to 20 minutes. This will remove the moisture and detergent smell present in the machine.

Dirt accumulation in rubber seal

Soap, water, and dirt accumulate in the rubber seals of a front-load washing machine. Black mold and bacteria grow due to lack of air.


Solution

Clean the rubber seal every week with a dry or vinegar-dampened cloth. With this you will not have to face this problem.

use too much detergent

Sometimes we put more detergent in the machine to wash clothes. This habit is not good, because it leaves soap residue in the clothes and drum.

What to do

Always add detergent as per the quantity of clothes. Use liquid detergent, as it is better than powder.

washing machine drum cleaning

Just as cleaning of other appliances is necessary, similarly cleaning of the washing machine is also necessary. After prolonged use, dirt accumulates in the drum and pipes of the machine.


Solution

Run the machine empty once a month. For this, add 2 cups of vinegar or baking soda with hot water in the drum and run the entire cycle. This will clean the machine and the clothes will not smell.


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