Leaving the door open after using it and cleaning out the door gasket regularly keep any smells away. I don't even do the "cleaning" (with bleach or the special "cleaner") and I don't have odor issues.
Maybe part of that is because I use vinegar as my rinse aid/fabric softener?
At any rate, what you have to understand is that because of their design they are air/water tight (unlike a top loader that the lid just rests loosely). If you close the door after you have used it, the moisture stays trapped inside and it will mildew and smell, just like anything else that is left wet... think wet stinky towels. Ew. But if you leave the door partially open after each load, then it can dry out and you won't have problems. Some moisture can last for awhile in the rubber gasket that seals the door shut, but you can wipe it out periodically to remove it and clean up any "gunk" and you should be good to go.
I've had my Kenmore one (made by whirlpool) for almost 7 years (?) now. The only problems I've had were draining problems--caused by my husband helping with the laundry and refusing to empty/check pockets. The drain filter has gotten clogged up with a myriad of collections (pencils, combs, pocket knives, coins, gum wrappers, etc). But, we went online and looked up how to open up the front panel, remove the drain filter, clean it of debris (ok, money, etc) and once we do that, everything is right in the world of laundry again.
:)
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ETA:
I also have a quick wash cycle option. And even though you generally cannot add items once a load is going, there is a small window of time at the start of the wash (after you hit "start") that a light glows saying "add an item" that you CAN open the door and add items. But I am with the other commenter who said it is really a planning issue. If you collect all the laundry and sort it before you load it (and really, doesn't everybody do this?!) then it is irrelevant.
I've added something here or there on occasion. But it certainly wouldn't have bothered me to leave those rare items out and wash them another time. If the item was that important, I think I would have made sure it was in there to start with, right?
And yes, getting the pedestals is an added expense, but worth the back ache saving that it does.