# This One Habit Could Be Why Your Washer Smells Musty

The simple and free solution to prevent your washing machine from smelling bad.

- **Source:** [Trendir](https://brifing.si/source/fa0937ee-5bfe-4107-bbbb-30be072b2212)
- **Published:** 2026-07-24
- **Topic:** [Career Growth](https://brifing.si/c/growth)
- **Original article:** <https://www.trendir.com/this-one-tidy-habit-could-be-why-your-washer-smells-musty-the-fix-is-embarrassingly-simple/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/633d693f-ac04-4f69-bb39-4331f4caaaaa

## Why Does Your Washer Smell?

The musty smell in your washing machine is caused by the growth of a bacterium called Moraxella osloensis. This bacterium accumulates in the door seal and detergent drawer, creating an unpleasant odor.

## The Relationship Between Moisture and Bacteria

Front-loading and high-efficiency washing machines save water and energy, but this design creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Residual water and detergent inside the machine feed the bacteria.

## The Impact of Cold Washes

Cold wash cycles save energy but do not fully dissolve detergent and fabric softener. This leaves a residue inside the machine that feeds bacteria.

## Overuse of Detergent

Many people use more detergent than necessary. Excess detergent does not rinse out completely and remains inside the machine, supporting bacterial growth.

## Limitations of Cleaning Cycles

Machine cleaning cycles and products usually only clean the drum. Areas like the seal folds and detergent drawer, where bacteria are concentrated, are often missed.

## The Habit of Closing the Door

Closing the washing machine door after each cycle traps moisture inside, allowing bacteria to grow. This small habit is the root cause of the smell.

## The Solution: Leave the Door Open

The simplest way to prevent the smell is to leave the washing machine door open after each cycle. This allows air circulation and helps the interior dry out.

## Additional Measures

In addition to leaving the door open, pulling out the detergent drawer to let it dry and wiping the seal folds once a week are also effective in preventing odors.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.trendir.com/this-one-tidy-habit-could-be-why-your-washer-smells-musty-the-fix-is-embarrassingly-simple/ — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._