Washer dryer emits unpleasant smell, how to clean the washer-dryer
Issue
- How to clean the washing machine / washer - dryer?
- Washer-dryer maintenance
- Washing machine maintenance
- Hot to fix smelly washing machine?
Applies to
- washer-dryer
- washing machine
Resolution
1. Cleaning the appliance:
Important: Switch off the appliance and unplug it before cleaning. Do not disconnect electrical or functional components without consulting Electrolux in the first place, as it may affect the warranty.
- It is recommended that you clean the appliance externally with soap and water only. Do not use harsh abrasives!
- Carefully wipe down the outside of the washing machine.
- You may find that fluff and splashes of washing powder have formed thick, greasy stains on the washing machine
- A little warm water and a cloth are usually enough to clean up the area
- Try cleaning in corners and edges using a cotton bud
- Softeners in detergents affect the plastic, making it brittle and scratching it
- See the user manual to check instructions for maintaining the appliance. Download the .
Once a month carry out a 90°C maintenance wash using a washing machine cleaner to avoid unpleasant smells and marks around the door.
- Turn off the appliance.
- Open the door to the fluff filter and place the drip tray underneath.
- Empty any water out of the machine by opening the drain hose next to the filter.
- Remove the filter by turning it anti-clockwise (several times firmly by hand).
- Clean the filter and pump housing under running water and refit the filter.
- Close the drain hose and put it back in its original place.
- Close the flap to the fluff filter.
The appliance is now ready to be used again. Check to see whether there are any leaks the first time you run a wash cycle.
Important: The above information is for guidance only. Please also refer to the full instructions in our article section about drain and filter checks.
2. Cleaning the detergent dispenser:
- It is recommended that you clean it because mould and mildew can occasionally build up in them.
- Remove any spillage or residue in each compartment by rinsing it under hot running tap water.
- Remove the dispenser and use a suitable brush (Clean it with an old toothbrush) to remove any dirt and dried soap powder/liquid from each section.
3. Cleaning the washing machine’s seal:
It is recommended that you clean because the rubber seals on washing machines often develop dark or black mould spots.
- You can remove this mould using sodium carbonate crystals, thick bleach or dishwasher cleaner, which helps to dissolve any stubborn mould and soap powder residue.
- Be sure to wear rubber gloves and protective goggles during this cleaning operation.
4. Problems with hard water:
- If you experience limescale build-up, adding a descaler to the detergent may be a feasible solution.
Important: You should not call out an engineer for cleaning advice unless the appliance is displaying an error.
The user manual can provide further assistance. Download .
You can also visit our Webshop for recommendations regarding cleaning products.