why does my Whirlpool washing machine have a stale smell?
detergent and soil residue can leave a Whirlpool washing machine smelling stale. use the clean washer tablet routine only if your own model's manual specifies it.
model scope: Whirlpool washers whose manual specifies the clean washer cycle with an affresh washer-cleaner tablet.
for the documented affresh procedure, remove all laundry and put the specified washer-cleaner tablet at the bottom of the basket, not in the detergent dispenser. run clean washer without ordinary detergent or other chemicals and let the cycle finish. the linked guide explains that particular routine; it is not a universal instruction for every australian Whirlpool model.
remove wet laundry promptly after future washes and avoid overdosing detergent. after cleaning, ventilate the interior only where an open lid or door cannot put children at risk.
do not mix cleaning products or substitute another brand's cleaning-cycle instructions. if the smell accompanies water that will not drain, treat that as a separate fault rather than continuing to run odour treatments.
possible causes
- detergent and soil residue inside the washer
- damp laundry left after the cycle
solutions
diy warning
working on appliances can involve mains electricity, water and moving parts. always disconnect power and water before you start. in Australia, gas work must be done by a licensed gasfitter, and fixed (hard-wired) electrical work by a licensed electrician. everything on this site is guidance only, and any repair you carry out is at your own risk. we are not responsible for any damage or injury caused by attempting a repair. if you are not confident, please use a qualified technician.
