I have a high-efficiency front load washing machine and I have never had issues with odors. I was surprised to hear that so many people speaking ill of front loaders because “they stink”. If you own or are considering purchasing a front loader, I have one big tip for you that I have done since the day my washing machine was delivered 10 years ago: when you are finished doing the laundry, manually spin the drum to make sure all clothes are out of the washer and then keep the front door and the soap dispenser drawer open. The soap dispenser drawer will collect water as well as the drum of the machine and the collection of water is what allows the mildew to develop which creates the smell. Keep the door and drawer open until dry which may take several hours. This is easy to do if your machine is in a dedicated laundry room but some laundry rooms in modern construction homes are in a breezeway or mudroom from the garage to the home and space in that area can be tight. However, being vigilant about letting the machine dry out after use will curtail the development of “the smell”. Also, wipe out the nooks-and-crannies of the door gasket occasionally since that part will have a hard time drying out and does develop what I call a “slime”. That’s my term, not the official technical term.
If you own a smelly high-efficiency front loader machine, do a quick internet search to find some great ideas on how to thoroughly clean your machine. Some remedies I found involved regular household products.
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