A machine that cleans your clothes every week can quietly become one of the dirtiest things in the house. Detergent residue, lint, body oils and trapped damp build up inside the drum, tray and filter, and the result is a musty smell, clothes that come out less fresh than they went in, and sometimes even slow draining. The good news is that most of it can be fixed in under an hour with things you already have at home. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to cleaning the three parts that matter most.
This article is intended for general informational and household purposes only. Washing machine models vary, so check your manufacturer’s manual before using vinegar, baking soda or any other cleaning method, as frequent use may not suit certain machines. Never mix vinegar with bleach, and unplug the machine before cleaning the filter or any internal parts.
Soak the tray in hot water with a little dish soap for 15 to 20 minutes, then scrub the corners with an old toothbrush. The detergent tray is easy to forget, but it’s often where the grimiest build-up hides, thick with old detergent and fabric softener that has hardened into a sticky, mouldy film. Most trays slide or pop out with a small catch, so check your manual if it doesn’t budge. Don’t forget to wipe the empty slot it sits in, since mould often hides at the back of it. A few small habits make all the difference. Leave the door or lid open after every wash so moisture can escape, and don’t overload the drum or overuse detergent, since extra suds leave behind more residue. Take wet clothes out promptly rather than leaving them sitting in the drum. A hot cleaning cycle once a month, plus a quick filter and tray check, is usually enough to keep the machine smelling clean and running well.