Over time, scale, powder residue, and moisture accumulate in the washing machine, causing an unpleasant odor and causing laundry to stop smelling fresh. This is especially noticeable if you often wash at low temperatures. But there is no need to buy expensive tablets or aggressive disinfectants; everything you need is already in your closet.
What you need:
100 ml white vinegar
2 tablespoons baking soda
How to do:
- Pour baking soda into the washing machine drum.
- Pour vinegar into the powder tray.
- Run a dry wash at 60–90°C without any laundry.
- After the cycle is complete, wipe the rubber seal and powder tray with a soft cloth.
Vinegar dissolves scale and kills bacteria, soda neutralizes odors and softens water, and hot water washes away all the dirt from the depths of the machine. After just one such “cleaning” wash, the musty smell disappears, and the drum becomes noticeably cleaner.
This method is suitable for anyone who wants to extend the life of their washing machine and not breathe in chemicals. It is especially useful if there are children or allergy sufferers in the house.
Question and answer:
How many times a month should you clean your washing machine?
Once every 1-2 months is enough, especially if you often wash at 30-40°C. At high temperatures, scale and mold form more slowly.
Do I need to clean the powder tray separately?
Yes. Even after a single wash, residues of powder and conditioner remain in the tray. Take it out and rinse under warm water, if necessary, soak in vinegar for 15 minutes.
How long does it take for the smell to go away after cleaning?
After the first cleaning, the smell disappears. To prevent it from returning, leave the machine door slightly open after washing and wipe the seal once a week with a dry cloth.
