Banish mould from entire washing machine with one item engineers love

If your has started to smell musty or your freshly come out less than fresh, mould might be the culprit. there’s one simple item you can use to blitz the entire machine in just one cycle.

Despite being designed to clean, washing machines are prone to mould and bacteria, thanks to their warm, damp environment. Over time, this build-up can affect your laundry and even damage the machine itself.

Cleaning expert Sarah Dempsey from MyJobQuote says neglecting your machine can lead to bad odours, visible black stains and grime in key areas like the drum, seal and detergent drawer. “The best way to clean your washing machine seal is to run a hot wash cycle,” she advises.

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Sarah recommends using a proper washing machine cleaner, particularly one brand that’s backed by engineers. “You can purchase specific cleaners designed for cleaning your washing machine, such as Calgon products,” she says.

“Engineers have agreed that these are the very best to remove mould and bacteria from your entire washing machine system, ensuring that it is safe, fresh, and free from smells,” she adds. They work throughout the machine, not just the drum, for a deep clean in one go.

But if you prefer a DIY approach, Sarah says white vinegar can be surprisingly effective. “You can spray the washing machine drum with white vinegar and wipe it all around the drum with a clean cloth,” she explains.

“This will help to get rid of residues and hard water stains and can even lift away grease easily.” For deeper cleaning, she suggests pouring distilled white vinegar into the detergent drawer and running a hot cycle.

This method reaches into hidden areas, like the pipes and filter, to shift stubborn dirt and neutralise smells. It’s also inexpensive and uses ingredients many people already have at home.

To keep mould at bay, airflow is key, and that starts with how you leave your machine post-wash. “Whenever your washing machine is not in use, it’s important to leave the door slightly ajar,” Sarah advises.

She also recommends leaving the detergent drawer open too. “This will allow air to circulate through the system, preventing the build-up of mould and bacteria,” she explains.

And if your, the problem might lie elsewhere. “It’s worth inspecting the standpipe, as there may be a collection of dirty, smelly water or mould,” says Sarah.

With regular maintenance and one simple cleaner approved by engineers, you can keep your machine smelling fresh and running smoothly. It takes just minutes and could save you hundreds in repairs or replacements.