Front Load Washer - Odor in Tub

It is possible for odors (like a mildew smell) to occur in a Front Load Washer over time. If you have an odor coming from your Front Load Washer, there are several things you can do to help eliminate the odor.

Eliminating Odors in a Front Load Washer

Detergent Use

Using liquid HE detergent is recommended. Use the appropriate amount of detergent with each wash load. Many HE detergents are concentrated and will indicate this on the bottle. If using concentrated HE detergent, use the amount recommended by the detergent manufacturer. Sometimes, using too much detergent creates too many soap suds and excess soap gets trapped in the outer tub which creates an odor over time.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Washer Tub

Clean the tub once a month to keep the wash basket free from soap and fabric softener residue that can build up and cause an odor.

• For models with a BasketClean cycle: Use the BasketClean cycle and 1 cup of bleach or a commercially available product manufactured for this purpose. We recommend Tide Washing Machine Cleaner for best results. Repeat if necessary.
• Here is a video about using the BasketClean cycle:

• For models without a BasketClean cycle: Run a large Heavy/Cotton wash cycle with no items in the wash basket and 1 cup of bleach or a commercially available product manufactured for this purpose. We recommend Tide Washing Machine Cleaner for best results. Repeat if necessary.

Cleaning the Pump Filter (On Models With an Accessible Pump Filter)

Due to the design of the Front Load Washer, it is sometimes possible for small items to pass to the pump. This can restrict the draining process and may also contribute to odors. On most models the pump filter is easily accessible for cleaning. Check the Owner's Manual for the specific model you own for instructions.

• View a video about cleaning the pump filter:

Cleaning the Dispenser Drawer Area

Detergent and fabric softener may build up in the dispenser drawer. Residue should be removed once or twice a month. Check the Owner's Manual for the specific model you own for instructions.

Cleaning the Door Gasket

Regularly check and clean the door gasket.

1. Open the Washer door.
2. Using both hands, press down on the door gasket.
3. Remove any foreign objects, etcetera, if found trapped inside the gasket. Make sure there is nothing blocking the holes behind the gasket.
4. While holding down the door gasket, inspect the interior gasket by pulling it down with your fingers. Remove any foreign objects trapped inside this gasket. Make sure there is nothing blocking the holes behind the gasket.
5. You may wipe the gasket surface with mild detergent, diluted bleach or diluted vinegar. Be sure to wipe away any cleaning solution with warm water before using the Washer.
6. When you are finished cleaning the door gasket, remove your hands and the gaskets will return to the operating position.

Other Tips

If the drain hose is pushed too far into the drain stand pipe, it can siphon drained water back into the Washer causing a musty odor. We recommend clipping the hose to the side of the stand pipe so this does not occur. By clipping to the side of the stand pipe, the hose will not need to be pushed in so far.

Odor Resistant Models

In 2020, we launched new Front Load Washers with the UltraFresh Vent System with Odor Block™. These models are the first Front Load Washers engineered to stay fresh, clean and odor free. Explore UltraFresh Vent System with Odor Block Models on our website.

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