4 Reasons Your Washing Machine Smells Like Eggs

If you notice a hydrogen sulfide smell emanating from your washing machine, it is likely due to the accumulation of old soap, mildew, grime, or mold in components such as the gasket door or the machine itself. This buildup often occurs as a result of machine washing.

Getting rid of this incredibly foul smell of rotten eggs is just the easiest thing you need to give your washing machine a good clean.

In this article, we will discuss the main reasons why you can smell a rotten egg smell and how you can get rid of it. Please note that if you have a top-loading washing machine, you can skip straight down to reason number 3. However, if you have a front-loading washing machine, please refer to the first 2 reasons first.

Reason 2 – Clogged drain plug or pump

The possible cause of the problem is a clogged drain plug in the bottom of your front-loader washing machine, which can be located either on the back, sides, or front of the appliance.

To inspect the drain plug and filter, you only need to:.

Find the drain plug.

If there is a covering plate on top, take it off.

Remove the cap once you are able to reach the drain plug. There may be a possibility of water leakage, therefore ensure that you have a used towel nearby.

After removing the plug, reach into the opening and take out the drain filter.

Thoroughly clean the filter and drain plug using hot, soapy water in the sink.

Clean the surroundings near the drain plug and filter using warm soapy water.

To remove any dirt or grime, it is recommended to use a hose to drain out the water. Afterwards, you should pour a glass of hot water mixed with a couple of drops of white vinegar into the washing machine drum.

After cleaning all the parts, return them to your washing machine. If the odor of rotten eggs persists, run a cleaning cycle on your washing machine and inspect the sewer (refer to reason 4 below).

If your washing machine is a top-loader, the best way to remove the smell of rotten eggs is to regularly clean it to prevent the buildup of mildew, grime, and mold.

Here’s the method to sanitize your laundry appliance:.

Please open the door of the washing machine.

Adjust your washing machine to the highest temperature setting and the maximum load capacity.

Once the water begins to fill, include one quart of bleach (approximately 4 cups) to the water within the washing machine.

Once the standard cycle of washing is completed, leave the machine to wash for approximately one hour before putting it back and turning it on. Once the washer is full of water, close the lid and turn it on for a long spin cycle.

Include 3 cups of clear vinegar and a ½ cup of baking soda while it is filling, and switch it to the highest temperature and largest volume once the washing cycle is completed.

Once the washer is fully loaded, turn it on and close the lid. When the spin cycle is complete, open the lid and wipe the machine with a clean cloth.

Inspect the sewer (refer to the information provided below) if your washing machine continues to emit an unpleasant odor resembling rotten eggs. Allow it to air out for a few hours before utilizing it once more, while keeping the lid of the washing machine open.

Reason 1 – Something stuck in the door seal

Throughout a washing cycle, the purpose of the door seal is to prevent water from leaking out of the washing machine. If you own a front-loading washing machine, also known as a bellow or gasket, you will find a substantial rubber door seal encircling the door.

If left for a long time, this can start to smell like rotten eggs. Over time, it can get covered in mildew and sometimes a small piece of clothing can get stuck inside the gasket, like a sock.

To ensure that the door seal is free from any obstructions, you just need to:.

Pull the door gasket back, and inspect its interior for any garments that may have become dislodged.

If you discover any, eliminate them.

Thoroughly clean the door seal with hot, soapy water.

After cleaning, keep the door ajar to allow for drying and ventilation.

To prevent the growth of mold and mildew, it is recommended that you leave the front-loader door open after each cycle when using a washing machine. This allows it to dry out. Cleaning Tip: It is advisable to develop the habit of being able to do this.