Electrolux Washing Machine: odor in washing machine

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Electrolux washing machine emitting a musty or sour odor? This unpleasant smell often arises from mold and mildew growth due to trapped moisture and residue. It's commonly noticed after low-temperature washes or when the machine has not been deep cleaned regularly. Don't let foul odors ruin your laundry experience; read on for effective solutions.

Urgency: Low

Important Tips for Electrolux Models

Electrolux recommends regular maintenance/highâ€‘temperature service washes and cleaning of dispensers and filters to prevent unpleasant smells.

Possible Causes

Mold & mildew growth due to trapped moisture and residue

How to Identify: Musty or mildew-like smell, visible dark mold spots on gasket, damp residue around seal and dispenser

Part: Rubber door gasket, drum interior, detergent drawer

Soap/detergent or fabric softener residue buildup

How to Identify: Sticky residue in detergent drawer or drum; sulky smell after cycles, especially with excess or wrong detergent

Part: Detergent dispenser, drum surfaces

Infrequent highâ€‘temperature maintenance cycles

How to Identify: Persistent odors when machine mostly run on cold/short cycles without periodic hot cleaning washes

Part: Drum and internal surfaces

Clogged or dirty drain pump filter/trap

How to Identify: Odor accompanied by slow drainage or residual water at cycle end

Part: Drain pump filter

Poor drying/ventilation after cycle

How to Identify: Lingering moisture after wash, musty smell if door/drawer closed immediately after cycle

Part: Drum interior and gasket

DIY Solutions

Deep clean door gasket and drum

Moderate 30â€“60 minutes

Tools Needed: rubber gloves, soft brush/toothbrush, hot water, mild detergent or washing machine cleaner

Open washer door, pull back gasket folds and inspect for debris/mold
Use hot soapy water or appropriate cleaner with brush to scrub gasket folds and drum interior
Wipe clean with damp cloth and allow to air dry

⚠️ Safety First: Avoid abrasive cleaners which may damage gasket

Run highâ€‘temperature maintenance wash

Easy 2â€“3 hours

Tools Needed: none aside from washer controls, optional washing machine cleaner tablets

Empty the washer drum completely
Select the hottest cycle available
Start cycle; add recommended cleaner or washing machine cleaner tablet for best results

⚠️ Safety First: Do not open door during hot cycle

Clean detergent dispenser and leave components to dry

Easy 15â€“30 minutes

Tools Needed: hot water, soft brush, towel

Remove detergent drawer according to manual
Rinse drawer under hot water and scrub compartments with brush
Dry thoroughly and leave slightly open after replacing to air out

Clean drain pump filter

Moderate 20â€“40 minutes

Tools Needed: bucket/towel, screwdriver (if needed)

Turn off and unplug the machine
Access the drain pump filter cover at base
Place a shallow pan to catch water, unscrew filter, clean debris and rinse
Reinstall filter and run a short rinse cycle

⚠️ Safety First: Be prepared for water spillage

Professional Repairs

Internal component sanitization/service

Estimated Cost: $100 - $250

Inspection and repair of drainage system

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Odor remains after thorough cleaning cycles and DIY maintenance

Signs of water leakage, drainage failure, or electrical faults

Preventive Maintenance

Run maintenance wash at high temperature: Bacterial and mold growth leading to odor
Frequency: monthly
Clean gasket and detergent drawer: Residue and mold accumulation
Frequency: monthly
Leave door and dispenser ajar after use: Moisture retention and mildew growth
Frequency: after every wash

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Electrolux Washing Machine odor in washing machine?

Common causes include mold growth, detergent residue, and infrequent high-temperature washes.

How do I fix Electrolux Washing Machine odor in washing machine myself?

You can deep clean the drum, run a hot maintenance wash, and clean the detergent dispenser.

How much does it cost to fix odor in washing machine?

Professional repairs for odor issues can cost between $100 and $400.

When should I call a technician for odor in washing machine?

Consider professional help if DIY solutions fail or if there's a drainage issue.

References & Sources

Washing machine emits unpleasant smell Official
How to fix smell issues of Electrolux washing machines Official
Electrolux Washer Smells: Causes & Solutions Community

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

85%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

Mold and mildew buildup in the detergent drawer and door seal
Clogged or dirty drain filter
Use of low-quality or inappropriate detergent

User Suggested Solutions

Clean the detergent drawer and door seal thoroughly with a mixture of vinegar and water. Wipe down all surfaces and ensure they are dry before closing.
Check and clean the drain filter. Locate the filter, remove any debris, and rinse it under warm water. Reinstall the filter securely.
Switch to a high-efficiency detergent that is suitable for your washing machine. Ensure you are using the correct amount as per the manufacturer's guidelines.