Electrolux Washer Dryer: mold smell

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a persistent mold smell from your Electrolux Washer Dryer? This musty odor can linger in the drum and on laundry even after drying. Common causes include mold buildup, residual water, and detergent residue. Addressing these issues promptly can help restore freshness to your laundry.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Electrolux Models

  • Electrolux troubleshooting specifically suggests cleaning corners and edges and contacting service if DIY cleaning doesn’t remove smell.

Possible Causes

Mold and biofilm build‑up in drum, door gasket, and detergent areas

How to Identify: Musty/moldy odor especially after wash cycles; visible black spots or residue on gasket and detergent drawer

Part: Drum interior, rubber door gasket, detergent dispenser

Residual water and poor ventilation after wash

How to Identify: Smell is stronger when door is kept closed after cycles and machine remains damp

Part: Internal drum and seals

Detergent or softener residue buildup

How to Identify: Sticky or filmy texture around dispenser and drum walls, smell persists despite regular cleaning

Part: Detergent dispenser, internal surfaces

Drain and sump clog trapping dirty water

How to Identify: Standing water in machine after cycles, slow drainage, foul smell persists after cleaning drum

Part: Drain hose, sump, pump area

DIY Solutions

Deep clean door gasket and drum

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: rubber gloves, old toothbrush, vinegar or diluted bleach solution, clean cloths
  1. Open the washer door and peel back the rubber gasket.
  2. Remove any lint, debris or visible mold spots with a brush.
  3. Spray gasket and drum interior with vinegar or mild bleach solution (follow safety instructions).
  4. Wipe thoroughly with a clean cloth and allow to dry.
⚠️ Safety First: Wear gloves and ensure good ventilation when using bleach

Run a hot clean cycle

Easy 1-2 hours
  1. Ensure drum is empty.
  2. Run the highest temperature wash cycle available.
  3. Add white vinegar or a washer cleaning product according to instructions.
  4. Optionally follow with a cycle including baking soda to neutralize odors.
⚠️ Safety First: Follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning solutions

Clean detergent dispenser

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: warm water, toothbrush
  1. Remove the detergent drawer if possible.
  2. Rinse under warm water and scrub with a brush to remove residue.
  3. Dry thoroughly and replace.

Professional Repairs

Drain system and pump inspection/cleaning

Estimated Cost: $100 - $250

When to Call a Professional

Persistent foul odor after thorough cleaning attempts
Visible mold deep within inaccessible parts (internal seals or drain sump)
Slow drainage or water remains in drum after wash cycle

Preventive Maintenance

  • Leave washer door ajar after each cycle: Residual moisture build‑up that fosters mold growth
    Frequency: after every cycle
  • Run monthly hot clean cycle: Mold, biofilm and smell build‑up
    Frequency: monthly
  • Clean detergent dispenser regularly: Residue accumulation that can harbor mold
    Frequency: every 1-2 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Electrolux Washer Dryer mold smell?
Common causes include mold buildup in the drum and door gasket, residual water, and detergent residue.
How do I fix Electrolux Washer Dryer mold smell myself?
You can deep clean the drum and gasket, run a hot clean cycle with vinegar, and clean the detergent dispenser.
How much does it cost to fix mold smell?
Professional repairs for mold smell typically cost between $100 and $250.
When should I call a technician for mold smell?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue, or if you suspect a drain clog, it's time to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

80%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Residual moisture in the door seal and drum leading to mold growth
  • Infrequent cleaning cycles and lack of maintenance
  • Using cold water settings which can prevent proper cleaning and drying

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Run a cleaning cycle using a washer cleaner like Affresh. Ensure the washer door is left open after use to allow air circulation.

  2. Inspect and clean the door seal and gasket thoroughly with a mixture of water and vinegar to remove mold and mildew.

  3. Consider replacing the door gasket if it is heavily soiled or damaged, which can trap moisture and contribute to mold growth.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. New condo - gnarly mold on washer rim

Community Discussions

gnarly mold on washer rim, heavy mold smell

Running a clean cycle with Affresh reduced the smell; replacing the gasket may be necessary.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or solution below.

Be the first to comment!