Quick answer
The usual sources: the door seal (residue, moisture, mould), the pump filter (standing water and lint), the detergent drawer, and frequent cold washes with too much detergent. Clean these spots, run a drum-clean cycle, and leave the door and drawer open after washing. A sewage smell may point to the drain connection.
Overview
After every wash a little water stays in the seal, filter and pump. Close the door straight away and moisture is trapped; smells start within days.
Using only cold, quick programmes with lots of detergent and softener leaves a sticky film inside the drum that bacteria feed on.
Likely causes
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1
Door seal
Detergent residue, lint and water collect in its folds, and black mould spots can appear.
Related parts: Door seal (gasket)
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2
Pump filter
Standing water with lint and dirt in the filter is one of the strongest odour sources.
Related parts: Pump filter
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3
Detergent drawer and housing
Detergent and softener residue in the drawer and its cavity goes mouldy over time.
Related parts: Detergent drawer
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4
Build-up inside the drum
A layer of detergent and grease between the drums grows bacteria, especially with constant cold washing.
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5
Sewage smell from the drain
Without the right hose height or water trap, drain odours can travel back into the washer.
Related parts: Drain hose
Safe checks before calling a technician
Unplug the washer and close the water tap before any check. Do not open the back or top panels, and do not touch wiring or circuit boards — that work is for a qualified technician.
- Wipe the inside of the door seal and its folds with a cloth and mild cleaner, then dry it.
- Unplug and clean the pump filter.
- Remove the detergent drawer, wash it in warm water and brush out its housing.
- Run a Drum Clean cycle, or a hot programme with no clothes.
- Leave the door and drawer ajar after each wash so the drum dries.
- Remove laundry as soon as the cycle ends; don’t leave it wet inside.
Parts involved
Door seal (gasket)
A rubber ring between door and tub that keeps water in; lint and moisture collect in it if not cleaned.
Pump filter
A filter in front of the pump that catches lint, coins and small objects; usually opened from a small cover at the bottom front.
Detergent drawer
Delivers detergent and softener with incoming water; blockages affect cleaning and can cause leaks.
Drain hose
Carries water from the pump to the drain; its routing and height affect draining and leaks.
When should you call a technician?
- It smells like sewage, even when the washer isn’t used.
- The smell persists despite full cleaning and clean cycles.
- There is slow draining or standing water in the drum.
- The door seal is damaged or has mould that won’t come off.
Need a Samsung repair technician?
Send us the model, the error code and a description of the fault — or book a technician visit in Amman, Zarqa, Salt, Madaba or Sahab.
Related error codes
Frequently asked questions
Should I leave the washer door open?
Yes — leaving it ajar after washing helps the drum and seal dry and prevents mould. Mind children and pets.
Are vinegar or bleach OK for cleaning the washer?
Follow your manual; strong products can harm rubber parts if overused. Dedicated washer cleaners are a safe option.
Why does the smell come back after cleaning?
Usually habits: closing the door straight away, washing cold only, or overdosing detergent. Changing habits stops it returning.