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 .

user manual

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 .

user manual

You can also visit our Webshop for recommendations regarding cleaning products.