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Eliminate Bad Smells from Your Washing Machine with This Proven Baking Soda Method

Eliminate Bad Smells from Your Washing Machine with This Proven Baking Soda Method

Does your washing machine develop unpleasant odors after washing? It's a common issue as residue builds up over time.

Fortunately, as a home appliance maintenance expert with years of experience helping households tackle this problem, I recommend a simple, natural fix: baking soda.

Run an empty cycle using baking soda in place of detergent for reliable results.

Eliminate Bad Smells from Your Washing Machine with This Proven Baking Soda Method

Contents
  • How to
  • Result
  • Bonus tip

How to

1. Ensure the drum is empty—no laundry.

2. Add 1 glass of baking soda to the detergent compartment or directly into the drum.

3. Select a short cycle at up to 30°C with slightly warm water.

4. Run the cycle.

Result

Your washing machine is now odor-free! This trusted method not only neutralizes smells but also disinfects and prevents scale buildup.

If you don't have baking soda, you can find some here.

Why does it smell? Residual moisture fosters mold in the drum, detergent drawer, or drain hose, leading to musty or sewage-like odors that transfer to your clothes.

Regular cleaning is essential. Baking soda, a natural disinfectant and descaler, effortlessly restores freshness without harsh chemicals.

For enhanced results, alternate with white vinegar occasionally.

Bonus tip

Stubborn odors lingering on clean laundry, like sweat smells? Try our proven tricks to eliminate them for good.