Washing Machine Problems

If your washing machine smells like sewage, the cause is usually a buildup of bacteria, blocked drainage components, or trapped water rather than a plumbing system failure.

Unpleasant smells are common when moisture and residue collect inside the machine.

The Most Common Reasons This Happens

1. Dirty Drum or Detergent Residue

Over time, detergent and fabric softener can build up inside the drum and seals. This creates an environment where bacteria grow and produce odours.

Running regular maintenance cycles helps prevent this.

2. Blocked Pump Filter

If debris collects in the filter, stagnant water can produce a sewage-like smell.

If your machine also drains slowly, see:

→ Why Is My Washing Machine Not Draining?

3. Drain Hose Issue

If the drain hose is kinked, partially blocked, or incorrectly installed, wastewater may not flow properly, leading to odours.

If other drains in your home smell, see:

→ Plumbing Problems Explained

4. Mold in Door Seal

Front-loading machines are especially prone to mold buildup in the rubber door seal.

Check for trapped moisture or residue.

5. Low Temperature Washes Only

Frequent cold washes can allow bacteria to accumulate inside the machine.

Running a hotter maintenance wash periodically may help.

Is This Normal?

It may be minor if:

• The machine hasn’t been cleaned recently
• The smell disappears after a hot cycle
• The filter hasn’t been inspected

It may require attention if:

• The smell persists after cleaning
• Water remains in the drum
• Other drains also smell

What You Can Do

If your washing machine smells like sewage, you can:

• Clean the drum and door seal
• Check and clean the pump filter
• Inspect the drain hose
• Run a hot maintenance wash

If odours continue despite cleaning, further inspection may be needed.

For more related issues, see:

→ Washing Machine Problems Explained

→ Appliance Problems Explained

If your washing machine finishes a cycle but clothes come out wetter than usual, the cause is often a spin cycle issue, drainage problem, or overloaded drum rather than complete appliance failure.

When water is not fully removed during the spin stage, clothes will remain damp.

The Most Common Reasons This Happens

1. Overloaded Drum

If the drum is packed too tightly, the machine may not spin effectively. Clothes need space to redistribute evenly during the spin cycle.

Reducing the load size often improves performance.

2. Drainage Problem

If water is not draining properly before spinning, clothes will remain wet.

If water is visible in the drum, see:

→ Why Is My Washing Machine Not Draining?

3. Unbalanced Load

If heavy items (such as towels or bedding) gather on one side, the machine may reduce spin speed to protect itself.

If the machine also shakes during cycles, see:

→ Why Is My Washing Machine Shaking?

4. Spin Cycle Setting Too Low

Some wash programs use reduced spin speeds. Check whether a lower spin setting was selected.

5. Worn Drive Belt or Motor Issue

If the drum struggles to reach full spin speed, internal components may be worn.

If the machine is also unusually loud, see:

→ Why Is My Washing Machine So Loud?

Is This Normal?

It may be minor if:

• The load was heavy or uneven
• A delicate or low-spin setting was used
• It happened once

It may require attention if:

• Clothes remain very wet consistently
• The spin cycle sounds weak
• The machine stops mid-cycle

What You Can Do

If clothes are coming out wet, you can:

• Reduce load size
• Run an additional spin cycle
• Check spin speed settings
• Inspect the drain filter

If the issue continues across multiple cycles, professional inspection may be necessary.

For more related issues, see:

→ Washing Machine Problems Explained

→ Appliance Problems Explained

If your washing machine door remains locked after a cycle finishes, the cause is usually safety delay mechanisms, residual water inside the drum, or minor sensor issues rather than a serious mechanical failure.

Most modern machines are designed to keep the door locked until it is safe to open.

The Most Common Reasons This Happens

1. Safety Cooling Delay

Many washing machines automatically delay unlocking the door for a few minutes after a cycle ends. This allows internal components and water to cool.

Waiting 2–5 minutes often resolves the issue.

2. Water Still Inside the Drum

If the machine has not drained fully, the door may remain locked to prevent flooding.

If water is visible inside, see:

→ Why Is My Washing Machine Not Draining?

3. Child Lock Activated

Some machines have a child lock feature that disables buttons and may prevent the door from unlocking.

Check the control panel for a lock symbol.

4. Faulty Door Lock Mechanism

The internal door lock switch can wear out over time. If it fails, the machine may not release the door even after the cycle completes.

5. Electrical or Control Board Glitch

Occasionally, a minor electrical glitch can cause the system to freeze.

If the machine is also unresponsive, see:

→ Why Is My Washing Machine Not Turning On?

(only include this if that article exists)

Is This Normal?

It may be minor if:

• The cycle has just finished
• There is still water inside
• The child lock is active

It may require attention if:

• The door remains locked for a long time
• The machine shows an error code
• You hear repeated clicking without unlocking

What You Can Do

If your washing machine door is locked, you can:

• Wait several minutes after the cycle
• Check for standing water
• Turn the machine off and on again
• Review the user manual for emergency release instructions

If the door remains locked and water is inside the drum, professional servicing may be needed.

For more related issues, see:

→ Washing Machine Problems Explained

→ Appliance Problems Explained

If your washing machine finishes a cycle but leaves water inside the drum, the cause is usually a blocked filter, clogged drain hose, or pump issue rather than complete appliance failure.

Drainage problems are common and often straightforward to identify.

The Most Common Reasons This Happens

1. Blocked Pump Filter

Most washing machines have a small filter that catches lint, coins, and debris. If this becomes clogged, water cannot drain properly.

This is one of the most common causes.

2. Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose

If the drain hose is bent, crushed, or partially blocked, water may struggle to exit the machine.

Check that the hose is positioned correctly and not restricted.

3. Faulty Drain Pump

If you hear a humming sound but water does not drain, the pump may be obstructed or worn out.

If the machine is also making unusual noise, see:

→ Why Is My Washing Machine So Loud?

4. Overloaded Machine

Overloading can affect spin performance and prevent proper drainage.

If clothes are also coming out wet, see:

→ Why Is My Washing Machine Leaving Clothes Wet?

5. Partial Drain Blockage

In some cases, the issue may be further along in the plumbing.

If other fixtures drain slowly, see:

→ Plumbing Problems Explained

Is This Normal?

It may be minor if:

• The filter hasn’t been cleaned recently
• The hose is visibly bent
• The issue happened once

It may require attention if:

• Water remains after every cycle
• The machine stops mid-cycle
• There are error codes

What You Can Do

If your washing machine is not draining, you can:

• Turn off power and inspect the filter
• Check the drain hose for kinks
• Listen for pump sounds
• Run a short rinse cycle to test

If water continues to remain inside the drum, professional inspection may be required.

For more related issues, see:

→ Washing Machine Problems Explained

→ Appliance Problems Explained

It’s not unusual to notice an unpleasant smell coming from your washing machine, especially if it’s used frequently. In most cases, the odor is caused by moisture buildup, detergent residue, or trapped debris rather than a serious fault.

While the smell can be unpleasant, it’s usually manageable with simple cleaning steps.

The Most Common Reasons This Happens

1. Detergent and Fabric Softener Buildup

Over time, detergent and softener can leave residue inside the drum, drawer, and pipes. This buildup can trap moisture and create a musty smell.

This is more common when low-temperature washes are used regularly.

2. Mold or Mildew in the Door Seal

The rubber door seal (gasket) can trap water and small debris. If not cleaned occasionally, mold or mildew may develop, causing a sour or damp smell.

If you’ve also noticed leaking from the door area, see Why Is My Washing Machine Leaking?

3. Blocked Drain Filter

A blocked or dirty drain filter can trap lint, hair, and small debris. This can create unpleasant odors over time.

If your machine also struggles to spin or drain properly, see Why Is My Washing Machine Not Spinning?

4. Leaving the Door Closed After Use

Keeping the door closed after a wash cycle traps moisture inside the drum. This creates the perfect environment for odor-causing bacteria.

Leaving the door slightly open helps air circulation.

5. Internal Drainage Issues

If water isn’t draining completely after cycles, stagnant water can produce a strong smell.

If the machine also makes unusual noises during cycles, see Why Is My Washing Machine So Loud?

Is This Normal?

A washing machine should not produce strong unpleasant smells.

However, mild musty odors are common if:

• The machine is used frequently

• Low-temperature washes are common

• The door stays closed between cycles

It may not be normal if:

• The smell is very strong or sour

• Clothes come out smelling worse than before

• Water remains visible in the drum

When Should You Worry?

You should investigate further if:

• The smell persists despite cleaning

• Water doesn’t drain properly

• There is visible mold damage

• The odor becomes significantly stronger

Persistent smells may indicate deeper drainage or buildup issues.

What You Can Do

If your washing machine smells, you can:

• Clean the door seal thoroughly

• Run a hot wash with no laundry

• Clean the detergent drawer

• Check and clean the drain filter

• Leave the door open after use

Regular maintenance often prevents smells from returning.

In most situations, a smelly washing machine is caused by moisture and residue buildup rather than a serious mechanical fault. Simple cleaning and ventilation usually resolve the issue. If the smell continues, professional inspection may be helpful.

→ Washing Machine Problems Explained
→ Appliance Problems Explained

It’s worrying to find water on the floor around your washing machine. In many cases, though, the cause isn’t serious. Leaks are often due to loose hoses, worn seals, or overloading rather than major internal damage.

While any water leak should be addressed quickly, many causes are straightforward to identify.

The Most Common Reasons This Happens

1. Loose or Damaged Hoses

The most common cause of leaking is a loose or cracked hose at the back of the machine. The inlet hose (which brings water in) and the drain hose (which removes water) can both leak if not secured properly.

A small drip can gradually form a puddle during a wash cycle.

2. Overloading the Machine

Putting too many clothes into the drum can force water past the door seal. This may cause leaking from the front of the machine.

If the machine also struggles during spin, see Why Is My Washing Machine Not Spinning?

3. Worn Door Seal (Gasket)

The rubber seal around the door can wear or tear over time. Small cracks or trapped debris can allow water to escape during washing.

If your machine has also become louder or unstable, see Why Is My Washing Machine So Loud?

4. Blocked Drain Filter

A blocked filter can cause water to back up and leak from the front or bottom of the machine.

If you’ve noticed strong vibration as well, check Why Is My Washing Machine Shaking?

5. Internal Pump or Component Failure

In less common cases, internal parts such as the water pump may develop leaks. This typically results in consistent leaking regardless of load size.

This is more common in older machines.

Is This Normal?

A washing machine should not leak water onto the floor.

However, minor leaks caused by loose hoses or debris are relatively common.

It may be a simple issue if:

• The leak only happens during certain cycles

• The machine works normally otherwise

• Tightening hoses reduces the problem

It may not be simple if:

• Water leaks heavily during every cycle

• The leak worsens over time

• You see cracks in the machine casing

When Should You Worry?

You should investigate further if:

• The leak continues after tightening hoses

• Electrical components become wet

• The machine smells burnt or stops mid-cycle

• The leak increases rapidly

Persistent leaks may require professional inspection.

What You Can Do

If your washing machine is leaking, you can:

• Turn off the machine and unplug it

• Check and tighten inlet and drain hoses

• Inspect the door seal for cracks or debris

• Clean the drain filter

• Run a short cycle to monitor the leak

If leaking continues despite these checks, a technician can examine internal components.

In most situations, a leaking washing machine is caused by loose hoses, worn seals, or blockages rather than serious internal damage. Addressing the issue early helps prevent further water damage. If the problem persists, professional repair may be needed.

→ Washing Machine Problems Explained
→ Appliance Problems Explained

It can be frustrating when your washing machine finishes a cycle but the clothes are still soaking wet. In most cases, this doesn’t mean the machine is broken. The issue is often caused by load imbalance, drainage problems, or simple settings.

While it may delay your laundry, many common causes are easy to check.

The Most Common Reasons This Happens

1. An Unbalanced Load

If clothes are unevenly distributed inside the drum, the machine may stop spinning to protect itself. Modern machines often pause or cancel the spin cycle when the load is unstable.

If the machine also moves heavily during spinning, see Why Is My Washing Machine Shaking?

2. The Drain Pump Is Blocked

If water can’t drain properly, the machine won’t spin. Most washing machines won’t enter the spin cycle while water is still inside the drum.

If you’ve noticed unusual noise during draining, see Why Is My Washing Machine So Loud?

3. The Spin Setting Wasn’t Selected

Sometimes the spin speed may be set to low or disabled, especially on delicate cycles. It’s worth checking the control panel settings before assuming there’s a fault.

4. Overloading the Drum

Too many clothes in the drum can prevent proper spinning. The machine may struggle to reach full speed and stop early.

Reducing the load often restores normal operation.

5. Door or Safety Lock Issues

If the door isn’t fully locked, the machine may refuse to spin. Safety mechanisms prevent spinning when the door sensor detects a problem.

Is This Normal?

It’s not unusual for a machine to skip spinning occasionally.

It may be normal if:

• The load was very small or very large

• Heavy items were unevenly distributed

• A delicate cycle was selected

It may not be normal if:

• The problem happens repeatedly

• The drum doesn’t spin at all

• Water remains inside after every cycle

When Should You Worry?

You should investigate further if:

• The machine never spins

• You hear grinding noises during attempted spins

• Water doesn’t drain at all

• Error codes appear frequently

Repeated spin failures may indicate a drain pump or motor issue.

What You Can Do

If your washing machine isn’t spinning, you can:

• Redistribute the laundry evenly

• Reduce the load size

• Check that the drain filter isn’t blocked

• Confirm the spin setting is active

• Make sure the door closes securely

If these checks don’t resolve the issue, a technician can inspect the pump or motor components.

In most situations, a washing machine that isn’t spinning is responding to load imbalance or drainage problems rather than a serious fault. Simple adjustments often restore full spinning performance. If the issue continues, professional repair may be needed.

→ Washing Machine Problems Explained
→ Appliance Problems Explained

It’s normal for a washing machine to make some noise, especially during the spin cycle. However, if the sound suddenly becomes much louder than usual, it can be concerning. In many cases, the cause is simple — such as an unbalanced load or items trapped in the drum.

While loud noise can be irritating, it doesn’t always mean something is broken.

The Most Common Reasons This Happens

1. An Unbalanced Load

Heavy or unevenly distributed laundry can cause the drum to spin off-centre. This often leads to loud thumping or banging during high-speed spins.

If the machine is also moving or vibrating heavily, see Why Is My Washing Machine Shaking?

2. Coins or Small Objects in the Drum

Loose items like coins, buttons, or small metal objects can become trapped in the drum or pump filter. These can cause rattling or grinding sounds during operation.

This is a common and easily overlooked cause.

3. Overloading the Machine

Putting too many clothes into the drum increases strain on internal components and can amplify noise during spin cycles.

If the drum struggles to turn properly, see Why Is My Washing Machine Not Spinning? (future link once live)

4. Worn Drum Bearings

In older machines, worn bearings can produce a loud rumbling or grinding sound, especially during spinning. This noise often becomes progressively worse over time.

This is less common but more serious than load imbalance.

5. Loose Internal Components

Over time, parts such as suspension springs or shock absorbers may loosen or wear out. This can increase vibration and noise.

If your machine is both loud and unstable, check Why Is My Washing Machine Shaking?

Is This Normal?

Some noise is expected, especially during spin cycles.

It’s normal if:

• The noise only happens at high spin speeds

• The sound doesn’t worsen over time

• The machine finishes cycles normally

It may not be normal if:

• The noise is much louder than usual

• Grinding or scraping sounds occur

• The machine struggles to complete cycles

When Should You Worry?

You should investigate further if:

• Loud grinding continues every wash

• The drum feels loose when moved by hand

• The machine leaks water

• The sound gets progressively worse

Persistent loud noise may indicate worn bearings or internal wear.

What You Can Do

If your washing machine is loud, you can:

• Redistribute laundry evenly

• Remove small objects from pockets

• Avoid overloading

• Check the pump filter

• Monitor whether the noise worsens

If loud grinding or rumbling continues, a technician may need to inspect the internal components.

In most situations, a loud washing machine is caused by load imbalance or trapped objects rather than serious damage. Simple checks often reduce the noise quickly. If the problem continues or worsens, professional inspection can help prevent further wear.

→ Washing Machine Problems Explained
→ Appliance Problems Explained

It’s common for a washing machine to move or shake during the spin cycle, especially at higher speeds. In most cases, this isn’t a serious fault. The movement is usually caused by an unbalanced load, uneven flooring, or installation issues.

While strong shaking can be alarming, it’s often easy to correct.

The Most Common Reasons This Happens

1. An Unbalanced Load

The most common reason for shaking is uneven laundry distribution. Heavy items like towels or bedding can bunch together, causing the drum to spin unevenly.

If the machine also makes loud banging noises, see Why Is My Washing Machine So Loud? 

2. The Machine Isn’t Level

If a washing machine isn’t sitting evenly on the floor, it may rock during high-speed spins. Even slight unevenness can cause noticeable vibration.

Check that all feet are adjusted properly and touching the floor firmly.

3. Shipping Bolts Not Removed

New washing machines have shipping bolts installed to protect the drum during transport. If these aren’t removed during installation, the machine can shake violently.

This is especially common with recently installed units.

4. Worn Shock Absorbers

Over time, internal shock absorbers can wear out. When this happens, the drum isn’t stabilised properly during spinning.

This is less common but possible in older machines.

5. Overloading the Drum

Putting too many items in the machine can overload the drum, increasing vibration during spin cycles.

If the machine also struggles to spin properly, see Why Is My Washing Machine Not Spinning? (future internal link)

Is This Normal?

Some vibration during spinning is completely normal.

It’s normal if:

• Movement only happens during high-speed spin

• The machine returns to stable operation afterward

• There are no error codes

It may not be normal if:

• The machine moves across the floor

• Loud banging happens every cycle

• You notice leaking water

When Should You Worry?

You should investigate further if:

• The shaking gets worse over time

• The machine makes grinding noises

• Water leaks during operation

• The drum seems loose

Persistent violent shaking may indicate internal wear.

What You Can Do

If your washing machine is shaking, you can:

• Redistribute laundry evenly

• Avoid overloading

• Check that the machine is level

• Ensure shipping bolts were removed

• Inspect the floor surface

If shaking continues despite these checks, a technician can inspect internal components.

In most situations, a shaking washing machine is caused by load imbalance or installation issues rather than serious damage. Simple adjustments usually restore smooth operation.

→ Washing Machine Problems Explained
→ Appliance Problems Explained