Run a cleaning cycle monthly to prevent mold and odor buildup
Samsung washers have a Self Clean cycle built in, and running it once a month takes about an hour and requires nothing but hot water. This cycle heats the drum to a high temperature and agitates without clothes inside, which kills bacteria and mold that collect in the rubber gasket and drum crevices. If your model doesn't have a Self Clean button, look for "Tub Clean" or "Drum Clean" — the name varies by year and model type.
To run the cycle: press the power button, select Self Clean (or Tub Clean), and start. Do not add detergent or bleach. Some models prompt you to add a cleaning tablet designed for washers, but plain hot water works. If you notice standing water or a strong smell before the cycle finishes, stop and check the drain filter first — a clogged filter can trap water and prevent the cycle from working properly.
If your washer smells even after running Self Clean, the rubber door gasket is likely the culprit. Mold hides in the fold where the gasket seals the door, and the cleaning cycle may not reach it fully.
Key Takeaways
- Run the Self Clean cycle once a month with hot water and no detergent to kill bacteria and mold inside the drum.
- Wipe the rubber door gasket with a damp cloth after every few loads, paying special attention to the fold where moisture collects.
- Empty the drain filter every three to six months and rinse it under running water to remove lint and debris.
- Leave the door open between washes so air can dry the drum and gasket, which prevents mold from growing in the first place.
- If smell persists after cleaning, the gasket may need replacement — contact Samsung support or a repair technician for the part number and installation.
Clean the rubber gasket where mold hides
The rubber seal around the door is where mold and mildew grow most often because water and detergent residue collect in the fold. After each load, wipe the gasket with a dry cloth or old towel, especially the underside where the fold traps moisture. This single habit prevents most odor problems.
For a deeper clean, use a damp cloth with a 1:1 mix of white vinegar and water, or a cloth with a small amount of bleach solution (one part bleach to ten parts water). Wipe the entire gasket, paying close attention to the groove that runs around the seal. Rinse with a clean damp cloth afterward to remove any residue, then dry with a towel. Do this monthly or whenever you notice discoloration or smell.
If the gasket has visible black spots that don't come off with vinegar or bleach, or if the rubber is cracked or torn, the gasket needs replacement. A damaged gasket can't seal properly and will let water leak during the wash cycle.
Empty and rinse the drain filter regularly
Samsung washers have a drain filter that catches lint, coins, and small objects before they reach the pump. A clogged filter slows drainage and can cause standing water that smells. Most models have the filter behind a small door on the front lower right of the machine, though some front-loaders have it on the side.
To access it: open the small door or panel (you may need a coin or flat tool to turn the latch), then slowly turn the filter counterclockwise by hand. Have a towel ready — water will spill. Once removed, rinse the filter under running water and use an old toothbrush to scrub away lint and debris. Check the filter housing for lint buildup and wipe it clean with a cloth. Screw the filter back in clockwise until snug, but do not over-tighten.
Empty the filter every three to six months, or more often if you wash heavily soiled clothes or have long hair. A clogged filter is one of the most common reasons a washer smells or drains slowly, and it is one of the easiest things to fix yourself.
Wipe down the detergent dispenser drawer
Detergent and fabric softener can cake up inside the dispenser drawer, creating a breeding ground for mold. Pull the drawer all the way out — most Samsung models have a release button or tab on the side. Rinse the drawer under warm water and use an old toothbrush or soft brush to scrub away any buildup in the compartments.
While the drawer is out, look inside the cavity where it sits. Wipe that area with a damp cloth to remove any detergent residue or mold. Let the drawer air dry before sliding it back in. Do this every two to three months, or sooner if you notice discoloration or smell coming from the drawer area.
Leave the door open between loads to let air circulate
Moisture trapped inside the drum and gasket creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew. After each load, prop the door open so air can dry the interior. Even leaving it open for a few hours makes a difference. If you run multiple loads in a row, open the door for at least 30 minutes between cycles.
This habit costs nothing and prevents most odor and mold problems before they start. Many Samsung owners who struggle with washer smell find that straightforward leaving the door open solves the problem entirely.
Clean the exterior and control panel
The outside of your washer collects dust and spills. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then dry with a soft towel. For the control panel, use a slightly damp cloth — avoid spraying water directly on buttons or the display. If there are stubborn stains, a cloth with a small amount of white vinegar works well.
Pay attention to the area around the door frame and the bottom of the machine where water can splash. Wipe these areas regularly to prevent mold from growing on the outside as well.
Know when to call a technician
If you have run the Self Clean cycle, cleaned the gasket and filter, and the washer still smells or drains slowly, the problem may be inside the pump or drain line. These parts are not meant to be cleaned by the homeowner. Contact Samsung support or a local appliance repair technician to diagnose the issue.
Similarly, if the gasket is cracked, torn, or permanently discolored, or if water leaks from the door during the wash cycle, the gasket needs professional replacement. A technician can order the correct part for your model and install it properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bleach in the Self Clean cycle?
No. The Self Clean cycle uses heat and agitation to clean, and adding bleach can damage the drum or gasket. If you want extra cleaning power, some Samsung models sell cleaning tablets made for the Self Clean cycle, but plain hot water is usually enough.
Why does my washer smell even after I clean it?
The most common cause is a wet gasket or damp drum. Make sure you are leaving the door open between loads and wiping the gasket dry after each wash. If the smell is very strong and comes from the drain area, the filter may be clogged or the drain line may have a blockage — check the filter first.
How often should I run the Self Clean cycle?
Once a month is standard for most households. If you wash heavily soiled clothes, live in a humid climate, or notice smell or mold, run it every two weeks instead.
What if water leaks from the door during a wash?
The gasket is likely damaged or not sealing properly. Stop using the washer and contact a technician, as continued use can damage the floor or surrounding cabinets.
Is it normal for the drain filter to have lint in it?
Yes, that is what the filter is for. Lint, hair, and small debris collect there to prevent them from clogging the pump. Rinse it regularly so water can drain freely.