How to clean your washing machine and keep it fresh

Does your laundry not smell fresh? Then your washing machine is often the cause. Regular cleaning and careful use of laundry detergent and temperature setting will keep you washing machine clean and your laundry fresh.

How to clean your washing machine and keep it fresh

Does your washing machine no longer smell fresh or even slightly musty? Then it is high time to clean it. Dirt, soap residue and limescale can build up in your appliance over time, often without you noticing. Cleaning your washing machine regularly will prevent unpleasant odours and ensure your laundry is thoroughly clean.

This blog will show you how to clean your washing machine, which products are to use and what to do if your laundry doesn’t smell fresh anymore.

Why should you clean a washing machine?

You might think that a washing machine cleans itself with every cycle, but in reality, some residue always remains behind. This may include laundry detergent, dirt from clothing and limescale from the water. Over time, this residue may cause a musty smell in your appliance and even in your laundry.

It can also affect its functioning, as water flows less easily and machine parts wear out more quickly. Therefore, regular cleaning is essential to keep your washing machine working properly.

How often should you clean your washing machine?

How often you should clean your washing machine depends on how intensively you use it. In most cases, once a month is a good guideline. If you often wash at low temperatures, it is particularly important to carry out a thorough clean from time to time. This is necessary, because at lower temperatures, bacteria are more likely to remain in the machine.

How do you clean a washing machine?

It is best to clean a washing machine in two steps: first run a cleaning cycle, then clean the individual parts.

Start with an empty drum and run a hot programme at 60 or 90 degrees Celsius. This helps to loosen any grease, soap residue and bacteria.

After that, clean the main parts. The rubber seal around the door is a typical problem area where dirt and moisture can accumulate. The detergent drawer can also contain residue that causes odours. Don’t forget to clean the filter too, where dirt and small objects collect. Regular cleaning of these parts will prevent dirt from building up.

Is vinegar an effective way to clean your washing machine?

Vinegar is indeed a commonly used product to help clean a washing machine. It helps to dissolve limescale and soap residue, as well as neutralising odours. Preferably use white natural vinegar or household vinegar. This is the same clear vinegar that you use in the kitchen (avoid strongly concentrated cleaning vinegar, as it can damage rubber parts over time).

Add a small amount of vinegar to the drum or detergent drawer, then run a hot cycle. This will freshen up the inside of your machine.

However, always use vinegar in moderation. Using it too frequently is unnecessary and may not benefit your appliance in the long term.

When is it better to use a specific cleaning product?

Although vinegar often works well, there are situations where a specialised product is a better choice. This is the case when dealing with stubborn odours or when your machine has not been cleaned for a long time. These specialised products are designed specifically for washing machines and clean thoroughly without causing damage.

What should you do if your laundry still smells musty?

If you notice that your laundry does not smell fresh, it is worth reviewing your habits. A thorough clean of your washing machine is often the first step, but you may also consider these small and simple routine adjustments:

Wash at a higher temperature from time to time
Do not use too much laundry detergent
Leave the door of your machine open after use to ventilate
Remove your laundry from the drum as soon as a cycle is finished

These changes may seem small but they will make a clear difference.

The sustainable benefits of a clean washing machine

By maintaining your washing machine properly, you extend the appliance’s lifespan and ensure more efficient use of energy and water. You also avoid having to wash your laundry a second time, saving you time, water and energy.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about cleaning a washing machine

How often should I clean your washing machine?

About once a month, depending on usage and temperature.

Can I use vinegar in a washing machine?

Yes, but in moderation and preferably white vinegar. Avoid concentrated cleaning vinegar.

Why does my washing machine smell musty?

The stink is usually due to the build-up of dirt, soap residue and bacteria. Especially washing frequently at low temperatures may cause a washing machine to start smelling.

How to clean your washing machine and keep it fresh