Unpleasant odors from the washing machine are a widespread problem. Around 90% of all washing machines develop an unpleasant odor over time. This can quickly spread throughout the house and affect the laundry.
The sewer odor is often caused by bacteria and fungi that colonize damp areas of the machine.
Interestingly, 80% of users do not clean their washing machines regularly, which encourages odors to build up. Monthly cleaning is recommended to prevent mold and bacteria. High-temperature wash cycles of 60 degrees and above should be carried out at least once a month, as they can kill up to 99% of germs.
There are various causes of washing machine odor, from incorrect washing habits to technical problems. The following sections explain common causes of drain odors and provide effective solutions to eliminate the problem.
Key findings
- 90% of washing machines develop odor problems
- Monthly cleaning prevents mold and bacteria
- High-temperature wash cycles kill up to 99% of germs
- Regular care extends the service life by up to 30%
- Damp areas favor bacterial and fungal growth
Washing machine stinks of sewer: Common causes
There can be many reasons for unpleasant odors in the washing machine. We take a closer look at the most common causes so that you can tackle the problem head-on.
Bacteria and fungi due to moisture
Moisture in the washing machine provides ideal conditions for bacteria and mold. Researchers have discovered around 230 different types of bacteria in household washing machines. The bacterium Moraxella osloensis in particular is often responsible for the typical washing machine odor.
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Incorrect washing temperatures
Low washing temperatures can cause germs to survive. Temperatures from 55 to 60 degrees Celsius are necessary to kill bacteria. Energy-saving eco programs often only reach 30 degrees, which encourages the formation of germs.
Clogged drain filter
A blocked drain filter can retain water and dirt. This leads to deposits and odors. Regular cleaning of the filter is important to prevent mold in the washing machine.
Faulty drain installation
An incorrectly installed drain pipe can lead to odor problems. If there is no functioning siphon, sewer gases can enter the machine and cause unpleasant odors.
| Cause | Cause Problem | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture | Bacteria and mold growth | Leave door and detergent compartment open |
| Low temperatures | Surviving germs | Monthly 60 degree wash |
| Clogged filter | Deposits | Regular filter cleaning |
| Faulty installation | Sewer gas ingress | Check siphon installation |
Immediate measures against unpleasant odors
Unpleasant odors in the washing machine are a common problem. Around 70% of users have experienced stink problems in the last 12 months. Here are simple tips to keep your washing machine clean.
Leave the door and detergent compartment open
After every wash cycle, you should leave the door and detergent compartment open. This allows moisture to escape and prevents mold growth. This simple measure helps to reduce odors.
Regular filter cleaning
The filter of your washing machine should be cleaned at least once a month. Remove lint, hair and other residues. A clean filter system helps to keep your washing machine hygienic and prevent odors.
Correct detergent dosage
Only use the recommended amount of detergent. Too much detergent encourages bacteria and mold. Correct dosing keeps your washing machine clean and fresh.
| Measure | Frequency | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Leave the door open | After every wash cycle | Prevents mold growth |
| Filter cleaning | Monthly | Reduces odors |
| Correct detergent dosage | With every wash cycle | Avoids residues |
Follow these tips to keep your washing machine clean and odor-free. Regular care extends the service life and ensures fresh laundry.
Proven household remedies for odor removal
Unpleasant washing machine odors can often be removed with simple household remedies. These natural methods are inexpensive, environmentally friendly and work well against bacteria in the washing machine.
Vinegar as a natural bacteria killer
Vinegar is a great helper against odors and bacteria. A study shows that 75% of respondents recognize vinegar as an effective remedy. Pour a cup of vinegar into the empty drum and start a wash cycle at 60°C. This kills bacteria and dissolves limescale deposits.
Baking soda against grease deposits
Baking soda is great against grease deposits, which are often responsible for the odor. Mix 100g baking soda with water to make a paste. Spread the paste in the drum and let the machine run hot. Baking soda neutralizes odours and removes greasy films.
Citric acid for descaling
Citric acid is a natural descaler. It helps to remove limescale from the washing machine. Dissolve 50g of citric acid in warm water and pour the solution into the detergent compartment. A wash cycle at 60°C removes limescale and leaves a fresh scent.
| Home remedy | Effect | How to use |
|---|---|---|
| Vinegar | Kills bacteria, dissolves limescale | 1 cup, 60°C wash cycle |
| Baking soda | Dissolve grease, neutralize odours | 100g as a paste, hot wash |
| Citric acid | Descaling, freshness | 50g/L water, 60°C wash cycle |
Regular cleaning of the washing machine can reduce odors by up to 90%. Clean the machine at least once a month to prevent bacterial growth and ensure fresh laundry.
Technical solutions for sewer odors
If your washing machine smells of sewer, there are technical ways to fix it. This will keep your washing machine clean and hygienic. Here are some effective methods:
Check siphon installation
A defective siphon can cause unpleasant odors. The siphon prevents gases from the sewer system from entering your home. Check whether the water level in the siphon is intact.
Water can evaporate in rooms that are rarely used. This often leads to odor problems.
Professional pipe cleaning
Professional pipe cleaning is helpful for stubborn odors. Experts remove deposits and eliminate sources of bacteria. These are often responsible for the odor.
This gas, hydrogen sulphide (H2S), smells unpleasantly of rotten eggs even in small quantities.
Installing a water softener
A water softener improves the hygiene of your washing machine in the long term. It reduces limescale deposits that feed bacteria. Less limescale also protects your washing machine.
There are also special products such as Drainpure. For €17.45 per year, they keep drains free of odors. Regular maintenance of your drains permanently prevents sewer odors.
Conclusion
It’s important to clean your washing machine regularly. This will prevent mould and musty odors in your laundry. Many households struggle with musty-smelling laundry. But you can prevent this with regular care.
Experts recommend cleaning the washing machine every two weeks at 60 degrees Celsius. Eco programs often do not reach these temperatures. High temperature programs are therefore better for thorough cleaning.
Use bleach in the detergent to combat biofilm. Don’t forget to clean the fluff filter and rubber seals regularly. Baking soda, citric acid or dishwasher tabs are good home remedies for maintenance.
These tips will keep your washing machine free from mildew and odors. This will ensure fresh and clean laundry.
FAQ
Why does my washing machine smell of sewer?
How often should I clean my washing machine filter?
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