Quick answer
The number-one odour source is a bottom filter full of food, then standing water from weak draining, then the door seal and tub edges, then relying only on cold, short programmes. A sewage smell may mean the drain-hose connection to the sink trap is wrong.
Overview
Leaving dirty dishes inside for days before running, and an uncleaned filter, let bacteria grow fast.
A simple weekly routine prevents most odours and keeps the dishwasher performing well.
Likely causes
-
1
Filter full of food
The most common source of odour.
Related parts: Dishwasher filter
-
2
Standing water from weak draining
Water left in the sump goes stale between cycles.
-
3
Door seal and tub edges
Food and grease collect along the lower door edge.
Related parts: Door gasket
-
4
Sewage smell from the drain
Without the right drain-hose height or a correct sink-trap connection, odours return.
Related parts: Drain hose
-
5
Only cold, short programmes
They don’t dissolve grease well, so it builds up inside and in the arms.
Related parts: Spray arms
Safe checks before calling a technician
Unplug the dishwasher before any check, and close its tap if there is a leak. Wear gloves when checking the sump in case of broken glass, and don’t open the side or bottom panels.
- Unplug and clean the filter thoroughly with a brush and warm water.
- Wipe the door seal, lower door edge and tub edges.
- Clean the spray arms and their nozzles.
- Run a hot empty programme with dishwasher detergent or a dishwasher cleaner.
- If dishes sit for days, run a pre-rinse.
- Leave the door slightly ajar after a programme so the inside dries.
Parts involved
Dishwasher filter
A filter assembly in the tub floor that catches food debris before it reaches the pumps; needs regular cleaning.
Door gasket
A rubber seal around the tub that keeps water and steam in.
Drain hose
Carries water from the pump to the drain; its routing and height affect draining and leaks.
Spray arms
Rotating arms with small nozzles that spray the dishes; blocked nozzles or collisions weaken cleaning.
When should you call a technician?
- A sewage smell persists after full cleaning.
- There is always standing water in the sump.
- The smell comes with code 5C.
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
Can I clean the dishwasher with vinegar?
Follow your manual; dedicated dishwasher cleaners are a safe option for rubber parts.
Why is the smell worse in summer?
Heat speeds up food breakdown and bacteria, so clean the filter more often in summer.
Does keeping the door closed cause odours?
Closing it straight after a programme traps moisture; leaving it slightly ajar helps drying.