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
Empty cycles at 60–90 °C at least once a week.
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 that eliminates the bacteria responsible for the odour.
Biogold Q for prevention
Everyday detergent with built-in antibacterial action.
Recommended products
Preventive protocol
- Run an empty Machine Clean cycle every Monday at 90 °C to remove biofilm
- 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 as a permanent barrier against bacteria
- 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.