If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve experienced the less-than-pleasant aroma that seems to linger long after your laundry is done.
It’s not just a minor inconvenience, it can be a real nose-wrinkler.
You may have tried everything from running vinegar cycles to giving your machine a good scrub-down, but the smell just won’t go away.
But don’t worry, you’re not alone in this battle.
In this article, we’ll dive into the root causes of those stubborn smells and arm you with practical solutions and a few not-so-usual hacks to keep your laundry room smelling fresh.
So, grab a cup of coffee (or a scented candle), and let’s get started.
Causes of a Smelly Washing Machine Waste Pipe
1. Laundry detergent build-up
Let’s start with the obvious suspect: laundry detergent build-up.
Over time, soap scum can accumulate in your washing machine’s waste pipe, leading to those unpleasant smells. It’s like the leftovers from your laundry room’s soap party that just won’t leave.
The good news is that regular cleaning can help prevent laundry detergent build-up from becoming a persistent problem.
If you’re using too much detergent or using the wrong type, it can lead to residue build-up in the pipe. That build up can create the perfect environment for odour-causing bacteria to thrive.
The solution is simple, use no more than the recommended amount of detergent and opt for high-quality, low-sudsing options.
2. Mould and mildew
Another culprit behind washing machine waste pipe smells is mould and mildew.
These fungi love damp, dark environments, and your washing machine’s waste pipe fits the bill perfectly.
If you’ve noticed a musty smell coming from your washing machine’s waste pipe, it’s possible that mould and mildew have taken up residence.
The best way to prevent mould and mildew from growing is to keep the waste pipe and surrounding areas as dry as possible.
Use a fan to ventilate the room after each wash and consider installing a dehumidifier if you’re in a particularly humid environment.
3. Dirt and grease build-up
If you’re noticing an especially pungent odour coming from your washing machine’s waste pipe, dirt or grease build-up could be the cause.
Over time, bits of dirt, grease, and oil from your washing machine’s drain can accumulate in the waste pipe, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and unpleasant smells.
The solution?
Keep your drain clean by regularly pouring boiling water down it, and avoid washing particularly greasy items in your machine.
4. Poor ventilation
Another common cause of washing machine waste pipe smells is poor ventilation.
If your laundry room doesn’t have proper ventilation, odours can linger and intensify.
The solution is simple: install a fan to help circulate the air and keep your laundry room smelling fresh, or leave the windows open regularly.
5. Animal or insect infestation
If you’re noticing a smell that’s hard to describe, animal or insect infestation could be the cause.
Rodents and insects are attracted to the moist environment in your washing machine’s waste pipe and can cause all sorts of unpleasant smells.
If you suspect an infestation, it’s best to call in a professional to handle the problem. In the meantime, keep your laundry room as clean and dry as possible to discourage them from setting up shop.
Solutions and Prevention
Here are some tips to fix the issue and prevent the smell from occurring in the first place.
Regular cleaning
Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding washing machine waste pipe smells.
Regular cleaning is a must to keep the pipe clear of soap scum, detergent build up, and food waste.
Schedule a deep clean every month or so to keep your machine running smoothly. Use a mild cleaner specifically designed for washing machines and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Proper use of detergents and soaps
As mentioned before, using the wrong type of detergent or using too much can lead to residue build up and unpleasant smells.
To avoid this problem, always use the recommended amount of detergent and opt for high-quality products that are less likely to cause a build-up.
Additionally, avoid using too much soap in each wash, as this can lead to soap build up in the waste pipe.
Proper ventilation
Proper ventilation is critical in preventing washing machine waste pipe smells.
As we mentioned earlier, odours can linger and intensify in poorly ventilated areas.
To avoid this problem, install a fan to help circulate the air and keep your laundry room smelling fresh. Additionally, be sure to leave the door open after each wash to allow the room to air out.
Pest control
Rodents and insects can cause all sorts of unpleasant smells in your washing machine’s waste pipe.
To prevent an infestation, be sure to keep your laundry room as clean and dry as possible.
Consider installing pest-proof screens on windows and doors, and use bait traps to capture any critters that do make their way inside. If you suspect an infestation, it’s best to call in a professional to handle the problem.
Installing traps or filters
Another effective way to prevent washing machine waste pipe smells is to install traps or filters.
Traps are designed to catch any food waste, grease, or other debris that may be flowing into the pipe.
They’re easy to install and can be a lifesaver when it comes to keeping your machine’s waste pipe smelling fresh.
Filters work in a similar way, by filtering out any particles that could be contributing to unpleasant odours.
Installing a trap or filter can be a simple and effective solution to prevent waste pipe smells.
Bicarbonate of soda and vinegar
Bicarbonate of soda and vinegar make for a powerful cleaning combination.
To use this hack, pour a cup of bicarbonate of soda down the waste pipe, followed by a cup of vinegar.
Wait for the mixture to fizz, then run hot water down the pipe for a few minutes to rinse away any residue.
Bicarbonate of soda, salt and lemon juice
Another all-natural solution to try is bicarbonate of soda, salt and lemon juice. Mix together a tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda, a tablespoon of salt and the juice from half a lemon.
Pour the mixture down the waste pipe, wait for a few minutes, then run hot water down the pipe to rinse away any residue.
Bleach
For a more heavy-duty clean, try using bleach and hot water. To try this trick, mix a cup of bleach with four litres of hot water, then pour the mixture down the waste pipe.
Wait for a few minutes before flushing the pipe with hot water to rinse away the bleach.
Boiling water and washing up liquid
Boiling water and washing up liquid make for a powerful cleaning combination. To use this hack, bring a pot of water to a boil, then pour it down the waste pipe.
Follow with a cup of washing up liquid and wait for a few minutes before flushing the pipe with hot water to rinse away any residue.
You should focus on regular cleaning and using the right amount of laundry detergent to prevent your waste pipe from smelling, and use hacks like this as an occasional booster to keep your washing machine’s waste pipe smelling clean.
In The Wash is your guide to the best laundry and cleaning products, tips and tricks. Our mission is to solve the UK’s cleaning and laundry dilemmas!
