Washing machines work tirelessly, and it's all too easy to overlook the fact that they need cleaning themselves. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, limescale and moisture accumulate inside the drum, seals and pipes, creating ideal conditions for mould and bacteria to thrive. This frequently results in nasty odours and can even impact how fresh your laundry smells.
Why Regular Deep Cleaning Matters
Regular deep cleaning helps the washing machine operate efficiently, prolongs its lifespan, and keeps laundry smelling pristine. I decided to put three popular washing machine cleaners from Home Bargains to the test, including the Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner, Dr. Beckmann's Service-It Deep Clean Washing Machine Cleaner Powder and standard white vinegar. To ensure a fair comparison, I used one cleaning solution per week on an empty washing machine.
Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner
I began with the Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner, adhering to the bottle's instructions and running a hot maintenance cycle. The cleaning solution emitted a pleasant fragrance, and the drum appeared spotless and gleaming. Yet, when I opened the door shortly afterwards, I could still pick up a faint musty odour emanating from inside the rubber door seal. It was certainly an improvement on before the clean, but it hadn't entirely banished the smell. It was also the priciest cleaner in the trial, priced at £2.99.
Dr. Beckmann Service-It Deep Clean Washing Machine Cleaner Powder
Next, I put the Dr. Beckmann washing machine cleaner powder to the test, following the instructions carefully and running an empty hot wash. The product genuinely impressed, leaving the drum looking spotless, the detergent drawer smelling fresh, and the rubber seal noticeably less mouldy than before. The best thing was the freshness — there was absolutely no trace of that lingering musty odour. Even after leaving the door shut for a period before opening it again, the machine still smelled clean, though the scent itself wasn't overpowering. At just £1.89 per packet, it also represents outstanding value for money.
White Vinegar
Finally, I gave white vinegar a go — a popular, budget-friendly cleaning method widely recommended online. I poured the vinegar directly into the drum and ran a hot cleaning cycle, hopeful that it would naturally eliminate any odours and residue. Sadly, this approach didn't deliver particularly impressive results. Although the drum appeared clean, the musty smell remained clearly noticeable. The vinegar scent also hung around for quite some time, which wasn't ideal. While white vinegar may prove useful for light upkeep or tackling minor limescale build-up, I found it simply wasn't powerful enough for a thorough deep clean of the washing machine.
Verdict: Dr. Beckmann Takes the Crown
After three weeks of testing, Dr. Beckmann's Service-It Deep Clean Washing Machine Cleaner Powder emerged as the clear winner. It eliminated odours completely, left the seal and drawer noticeably cleaner, and cost just £1.89 — over a pound less than the Dettol alternative. For anyone looking to keep their washing machine in top condition without breaking the bank, Dr. Beckmann is the superior choice.
