LifestyleBanish washing machine odours with this simple household trick

Banish washing machine odours with this simple household trick

Add to the washing machine. You'll get rid of the bad smell.
Add to the washing machine. You'll get rid of the bad smell.
Images source: © Adobe Stock

6 September 2024 11:12

A washing machine is one of the most frequently used appliances in the home. It requires regular cleaning; otherwise, an unpleasant odour may emanate inside. How to deal with it? Discover a simple method.

Many homes experience an unpleasant smell from the washing machine. The most common cause is mould that develops in hard-to-reach places, such as the gasket, detergent drawer, or filter. If you notice black spots on any part of the washing machine or detect a musty smell from the drum, act immediately.

How to get rid of mould from the washing machine? You don't need any specialized agents or strong detergents. Use products that you already have at home.

Put it in the compartment and start a wash. You'll get rid of the bad smell

Baking soda is a versatile product. We use it for cooking, laundry, and cleaning. It has whitening, disinfecting, and antifungal properties. You can buy it in any store for no more than $1.

How to use baking soda to clean the washing machine? It's very simple. Start by emptying the drum. Open the detergent drawer and pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) of baking soda. In the compartment intended for fabric softener, pour in 1/2 cup (120 ml) of vinegar, enhancing its effect. Close the drawer and set the wash to the highest possible temperature. After the wash, open the door to allow the drum to dry completely. Repeat this process once a month, and the bad smell will be just a memory.

Put it in the washing machine. After the cycle, it'll be like new

Both baking soda and vinegar can be replaced with citric acid, which will get rid of the unpleasant residue and limescale. It would be best to use stronger agents, such as a dishwasher tablet and tea tree oil, for stubborn mould. The tablets are based on baking soda, citric acid, and strong chemical substances, while tea tree oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties.

How to remove mould from the washing machine? Throw two tablets into the empty drum. Open the detergent drawer, pour 30 drops of tea tree oil, and set the program to at least 60°C. There will be no trace of the residue, and a pleasant smell will emanate from inside.

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