Washing machines will be cleaner after 1 wash cycle when you pour in 1 simple item. I decided to put two popular washing machine cleaners to the test to tackle a stubborn mould and mildew smell – and one performed far better than the other.
The Problem with Washing Machines
It's tempting to assume that appliances designed to clean our clothes, such as washing machines, are inherently spotless themselves. The reality, however, is that washing machines can harbour germs, mould, and unpleasant smells.
My usual go-to method for cleaning the washing machine is the natural option of soda crystals. On this occasion, though, a more targeted solution was required, as the soda crystals failed to shift a persistent smell coming from the drum.
The Contenders
The two products put to the test were the Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner and the Dr. Beckmann Service-it Washing Machine Cleaner which I picked up in Home Bargains. Both cleaners came in at a comparable price point. The Dettol version retails at £2.99, while the Dr. Beckmann alternative costs £2.19.
Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner
Initially, the plan was to rely solely on the Dettol washing machine cleaner, but it fell short of expectations when it came to thoroughly cleaning the drum. To apply it, one tablespoon of the cleaner was diluted in 200ml of hot water to tackle the detergent drawer, glass door and seal. This solution proved reasonably effective at tackling hardened soap scum and minor patches of surface mould. The drawer was then replaced and the remaining solution poured inside before running the machine on a 60-degree wash cycle. Once the cycle had finished, the drum appeared noticeably shinier, yet the unpleasant odour persisted the moment the door was opened.
Dr. Beckmann Washing Machine Cleaner
Next came the opportunity to trial the Dr. Beckmann washing machine cleaner. Since the drawer, seal and door required no additional attention, I emptied the full bottle into the detergent drawer. While the instructions recommended simply running a minimum 40-degree cycle, I selected 60 degrees to ensure a fair comparison. Once the cycle finished, I opened the door and encountered only a pleasant floral scent and no musty stench. Beyond cleaning the machine, when used consistently, this cleaning product is formulated to support energy-efficient washing and a long service life.
Verdict
While the Dettol washing machine cleaner demonstrated sufficient effectiveness for the drawer, it fell short when dealing with the drum. Given its superior performance and lower price point, I'd suggest the Dr. Beckmann Service-it Washing Machine Cleaner.
