Ever since humans started wearing clothes, keeping them clean and fresh has been a necessity. Over the years, we’ve developed fresheners, softeners, and boosters to enhance laundry’s cleanliness. Yet, despite these innovations, clothes can sometimes emerge from the wash less fresh than expected.

Common Reasons for Less-Than-Fresh Laundry

Lingering in the Washer
A common culprit is leaving clothes in the washer for too long. When damp laundry sits idle, mildew can develop, wasting water, detergent, and time since it must be rewashed—ideally with hot water to eliminate odors. Ensuring clothes are fully clean before moving to the dryer is also crucial, as drying can lock in both smells and stains.

Dirty Washing Machine Drain
A lesser-known reason for smelly laundry lies in the washing machine’s drain. Often overlooked, a clogged or dirty drain can have a significant impact on how fresh clothes smell.

“The drain trap is a component designed to collect lint, debris, and small objects from the water drained during the wash cycle,” explains Jennifer Smith, founder of Urban Home Corner. She adds, “It’s typically located at the bottom of the machine near the drain hose and prevents blockages in the plumbing system.” Smith recommends cleaning the drain periodically to maintain freshness.

Locating and Cleaning the Drain

To find the washing machine drain plug, consult the user manual. These manuals, often available online as PDFs, provide accurate instructions and prevent potential damage or injury. For front-loading machines, the drain is usually located at the bottom front. Top-loaders, however, may have drains at the back or require the use of a drain snake.

Once located, remove the drain plug and gently clean it with a brush or cloth. After reassembling, run an empty hot water cycle to clear any residual debris and ensure the drain functions properly.