You open the lid of the washing machine and expect a pleasant smell - actually. But sometimes the laundry doesn't just smell unpleasant after the wash cycle, it downright stinks.
Why do freshly washed clothes stink?
The reason is relatively simple: after every wash cycle, dirt remains in the drum, providing a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. The microorganisms from the dirty laundry collect in the damp environment of the washing machine, multiply and are responsible for the nasty smell.
Where do the bacteria and fungi come from?
The microorganisms usually come from food, human dander and other soiling such as animal hair or plants. A kind of slime layer is formed on the laundry, also known as biofilm. Although this is said to be harmless to our health, the unpleasant odor after the wash cycle is annoying. After all, we expect our laundry to smell fresh.
What to do about the unpleasant odor?
Forum Waschen advises washing laundry at least once a month at 60 degrees with a universal detergent. This applies to towels, bed linen and co. Laundry that cannot withstand this temperature, such as delicates, should be washed as usual.
Very important: The door or lid should remain open after washing so that the interior can dry properly! You should also clean the rubber seal regularly, as hair, fluff and detergent residue can build up in it.
If the laundry still smells, check the lint filter, as this should also be cleaned regularly. Also make sure that there is enough water in the washing machine so that the laundry is washed and rinsed properly and the waste water can drain properly - so check the inlet tap.
Tip: Occasionally add a washing machine cleaner to the empty machine, as these combat bacteria and provide a fresh scent. Popular products include those from Sagrotan or Dr. Beckmann with activated charcoal.