stagnant smelling washing?

Having taken the washing machine apart I discovered that the source of the smell was a build up of congealed soap powder on the inside of the machine not on the stainless steel drum but the outer container. The 'problem' was probably caused by using a cleaner which took the top layer off the surface, exposing the smelly underneath. I pressure washed all the solid matter off then all was ok. The bearings have failed today so after 18 years loyal service this machine will be retired today!

like2175
December 2012

If you fill your sink with water to wash dishes, do you add in the same amount of washing-up liquid as you do when you fill your washing machine? NO OF COURSE NOT!

Do not put the recommended amount the manufacturers say in your washing machine.

You only need about 1/3 the amount! You'll save a fortune too!

Do not put too much powder/liquid in your washing machine. If your clothes are really dirty, pre-treat the dirty areas on your clothes first with an oxygen based pre-wash treatment (oxy clean for example). Then wash with 1/3 the amount.

Still, get the eco-friendly balls from a well known shopping channel (starts with Q), or an auction site. I purchased 3 of these over a year ago and I'm still on my 1st ball!!! I do pre-treat with oxy-clean liquid when required, however this only works with washing powder, so I add in 1 teaspoonful along with 1 eco-ball - and my clothes come out perfectly.

Dr Know-it-all
March 2010

I have same problem on a front loading Ariston AI1257M. The washing machine smells awful after being left overnight. I wonder if a piece of material has slipped between the moving and stationary parts of the drum? A 90degC wash with washing machine cleaner or using Ariel powder only only helps for a few hours. Any comments on whether this could be the cause and how to get at the material? It could be the cuase of odd pairs of socks as well! Graham

lik2175
October 2007

i had this problem and i read that using liquid soap on cooler wash cycles causes a build up of the liquid in the machine and this causes the odour. this is probably why when you put on a hot wash the smell is not as bad. i switched to using soap powder in tablet form and have not had the problem since.

babs
October 2007

This sounds as though the heating element has burned out. The elements can burn out as quickly as within 2 years in a hard water area.

pjg2069
July 2007

if your ubend is slightly blocked the water from the sink runs into the washer
check it out

phil grimshaw
June 2007