Getting Rid of Smell from Washers

[Rose Orlan]

I find that our washers get a real musty smell from time-to-time. I assume it is coming from water gathered in the drains. Any advice on how to resolve this problem?

[Anonymous]

First thing is prevention, when the washers are not in use be sure that the doors are open and inch or two.

[soaps]

We had this kind of problem a few years ago. Turned out we were getting some gas from the drains. Had to tweek the drainage and then problem went away. I've never had a musty smell that was just caused by the door on the washer being shut. Well, from time to time I will smell a bad musty, mildew smell when somebody does a bad load. That disappears rather quickly tho. If it's really strong I spray a little lysol in the tub.

[buddy]

Leave the washer doors open in the night when they are not in use.

[pete f]

A light ammonia solution sprayed in will negate many smells.

[Anonymous]

Ammonia is a dangerous idea, considering many customers will put chlorine bleach in the machine. Ammonia and chlorine react to form a highly poisonous gas.