Musty odour: a hygiene and perception problem
A musty or mouldy smell on freshly washed laundry is particularly damaging because it creates doubt about the establishment's hygiene. Users associate the odour with dirt and poor maintenance, harming the business's reputation.
Impacts
- Perception of poor hygiene on the premises
- Distrust in the cleanliness of the service
- Negative reviews mentioning unpleasant smells
- Customer attrition
- Laundry that smells bad despite being freshly washed
- Complaints and refund requests
Causes
Bacterial biofilm in the washer
Build-up of bacteria and mould in the drum, seals and pipework producing a musty smell.
Washers left closed
Doors closed between uses create a humid environment ideal for mould and bacteria.
Dirty or blocked filters
They accumulate organic debris that decomposes and gives off odour.
Detergent residue in the pipework
Accumulated detergent ferments and produces unpleasant smells.
Poor ventilation in the premises
Inadequate ventilation keeps humidity high, encouraging mould growth.
Solutions
Deep clean with Machine Clean
Periodic empty cycles at about 60 °C for about 30 min (about 40 g/kg).
Doors left ajar between uses
Instruct staff or users to ventilate the machines.
Clean filters and seals regularly
Weekly protocol to clean filters, seals and dispensers.
Use Oximatic + in cycles
Oxygen bleach with high oxidising power, effective at all temperatures.
Biogold Q for prevention
Everyday hygienising enzymatic detergent.
Recommended products
Preventive protocol
- Run a periodic empty Machine Clean cycle at about 60 °C to remove odour-causing deposits
- Leave doors ajar between uses for natural ventilation
- Include rubber-seal cleaning in the daily closing checklist
- Verify the air extraction system is running and venting ambient humidity
- Add Oximatic + to the standard programme for whites
- Dismantle and wash dispensers every fortnight to prevent fermentation
Does your laundry have recurring damp issues?
We can audit the ventilation and maintenance protocol of your establishment.
B2B PRICE · MANUFACTURER
Shall we send you our detergent and softener price list?
Price per pack size for self-service laundries and recommended dosage. We reply within 24 working hours.