I would think that soda might be a better solution than vinegar. After all, many people keep an open box of soda in the refrigerator to absorb odors. I do think a lot of odors come from residue left from the newer detergents used in the washing machine. I personally do not like front loader washers. I have a top loader and I use All with no perfumes and I use two rinse cycles. Probably you need to change the cover on your ironing surface even if it is a tough job.