Why Does My Laundry Room Smell?

A laundry room is supposed to smell fresh, like clean clothes—not like mildew, sewer gas, or old socks. If yours smells bad, you’re not alone. Odors in the laundry room are common, but they can be frustrating to pinpoint. The good news? Most causes are easy to fix with a little troubleshooting.

This guide will help you identify where the smell is coming from and show you exactly how to fix it.

1. Washing Machine Smells Musty or Sour

• Cause: Mildew buildup from moisture and detergent residue.

• Fix:

  • Run a hot water cycle with vinegar and baking soda, or use a washing machine cleaner. These washing machine cleaning tablets from Active come in a 1 year supply for $18 and are the top pick on Amazon.

  • Leave the washer door open after each use to allow it to dry.

2. Sewer or Rotten Egg Smell

• Cause: Dry or clogged drain traps, sewer gas leaks, or mold in drain pipes.

• Fix: Pour hot water down the drain to refill dry traps. Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clean the drain. If the smell persists, you may need to check plumbing issues.

3. Stinky Towels or Clothes Even After Washing

• Cause: Detergent buildup, bacteria, or mildew growth.

• Fix: Wash towels and clothes with vinegar in the rinse cycle. Avoid using too much detergent, and ensure proper drying.

4. Lint Trap or Dryer Vent Smells Burnt or Musty

• Cause: Lint buildup in the trap or vent can lead to mold growth or even a fire hazard.

• Fix: Clean the lint trap after every load. Deep clean the vent hose every few months. Better yet, replace that flex vent all together with rigid pipe or a magnetic connector (like this one). This will get rid of the excess duct and reduce the likelihood of build up or a fire!

5. Damp, Moldy Smell in the Laundry Room

• Cause: Hidden water leaks, poor ventilation, or damp air.

• Fix: Check for leaks under appliances. Use a dehumidifier and improve airflow with a fan or open window.

6. Garbage or Rotten Food Smell

• Cause: Forgotten laundry, an old spill, or pests.

• Fix: Check for old laundry or spills. Take out the trash regularly and inspect for pests.

Troubleshooting Guide

Use the quick reference table to help you diagnose and fix your laundry room odor issue.

"A bad smell in the laundry room is more than just a nuisance—it can be a sign of mildew, bacteria, or even a plumbing problem."

This post contains affiliate links.

Final Thoughts

A bad smell in the laundry room is more than just a nuisance—it can be a sign of mildew, bacteria, or even a plumbing problem. With a little troubleshooting, you can get your laundry room back to smelling fresh and clean.