Whirlpool Washer Smells Like Mildew? Here's How to Clean It

So, is your Whirlpool washer smelling bad?

I know it is frustrating when clean laundry picks up a musty smell. I would look for damp residue around the tub, seal, drawer, and drain. In my experience, trapped moisture and too much detergent can make the smell return.

How to Clean a Smelly Whirlpool Washer

To clean a smelly Whirlpool washer, air the tub, wipe damp areas, run the cleaning cycle, clear old water, and reduce detergent buildup.

Also, these checks show how to get rid of mold when the Whirlpool washer smells like mildew, and where to look if it smells like rotten eggs.

Wipe the Seal and Tub Edges

As you work, use a soft cloth and a cleaner approved for the Whirlpool washer. Wipe reachable seal folds on a front loader, or the tub rim, lid, and reachable wash plate area on a top loader.

Before moving on, wear gloves and never scrape a seal with a sharp tool. A cracked or deeply molded seal should be replaced by a technician.

One of these seal area check can reveal what changed during a careful check.

Clear Old Water From the Drain

In many cases, standing water can make the Whirlpool washer smell like rotten eggs. If the manual shows a user accessible pump filter, unplug the machine, prepare for water, and clean it as directed.

Also, straighten the drain hose and check for a reachable blockage. If the smell is strongest at the wall drain or other fixtures, ask a plumber to inspect the household drain.

The drain path on your Whirlpool often show a useful clue before the next test.

Air the Washer After Each Load

For this check, take wet laundry out of the Whirlpool washer soon after the cycle. Wipe visible moisture and leave the door or lid open when the machine is unused, as long as children and pets cannot get inside.

As you work, a closed damp tub lets a mildew smell return quickly. Giving it time to dry can clear a light odor and slows new growth.

A few minute spent on the Whirlpool damp tub can be useful while the washer is empty.

Use the Right Amount of Detergent

At this point, use the detergent type and amount listed for the Whirlpool washer. Too much soap leaves a film that traps lint, moisture, and odor.

Also, if the drawer is stuck, wet, or leaving soap behind, follow the full steps for a Whirlpool washer that is not dispensing detergent. That guide explains how to clean a smelly washer drawer without forcing it.

On a Whirlpool washer, this detergent buildup are easy to overlook as you check the simple causes.

Run the Washer Cleaning Cycle

Before moving on, run the Whirlpool cleaning cycle with an empty tub and only the cleaner or bleach amount allowed in the manual. If there is no named cleaning cycle, follow the model's regular cleaning directions.

For safety, never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or another cleaner. Extra product does not clean better and may leave more residue.

Conclusion

Try the safe Whirlpool checks first for a fresher tub, then leave internal repairs to a technician.

• Wipe the Seal and Tub Edges
• Clear Old Water From the Drain
• Air the Washer After Each Load
• Use the Right Amount of Detergent
• Run the Washer Cleaning Cycle