Do you have a sanitizing cycle on your washing machine? There are all sorts of things I don’t like about my washer, but that function is amazing. I don’t need to use any chemicals. I had my machine in storage, had some mold in it I’m pretty sure. I ran the sanitizing cycle, which is extra hot and long, and it was like new. I run it every six months or so.
I agree that vinegar can help clean also. I’ve never tried vinegar and baking soda in my washing machine, but I’ve used it in my drains.
Are you trying to clean out hard water build-up or mold and mildew?
For hard water I use Lemi-Shine, but I think it has a scent. I’m not even sure. It’s a powder so you don’t easily inhale it like a liquid. You can obviously wear a mask too. It will rinse away when you run the washer.