Adding bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar to a washing machine cycle can help eliminate damp and stale odours, according to home safety expert Neil Mckenzie at Halton Stairlifts. The kitchen cupboard staples break down detergent build-up and excess moisture that cause the appliance to smell musty.
Why washing machines develop odours
Mckenzie identified three common causes of unpleasant smells. Moisture is a leading factor: when the door is left closed after a cycle, water sits in the drum and rubber door seal, creating a damp environment where mould and mildew can take hold.
Detergent build-up is the second cause. Mckenzie said many households use more detergent than the machine needs, and the excess product does not fully rinse away. It clings to the drum, the drawer and internal pipes, accumulating over time and producing a musty smell.
The third cause is low-temperature washing. Now more common as households try to cut energy bills, cooler washes do not get hot enough to kill bacteria and residue left behind from regular laundry loads. Over time, this creates a layer of biological build-up inside the machine.
Monthly cleaning routine
Mckenzie advised placing the machine on its hottest cycle, at least 60 degrees, with the drum empty. Add a washing machine cleaning tablet or two tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda directly into the drum, and a cup of white vinegar into the detergent drawer, then let the full cycle run.
Once the cycle finishes, wipe down the rubber door seal with a damp cloth, paying attention to the folds where moisture and lint collect. Leave the door open for at least an hour afterwards.
The detergent drawer should be removed and rinsed under a tap monthly, as built-up conditioner and powder can block the channels that feed into the drum.
Additional maintenance tips
For machines prone to holding water, Mckenzie recommended manually draining it via the filter at the bottom. Unplug the machine first, place a towel or tray underneath, and release the water slowly. This removes stagnant water that can lead to odours and bacteria over time.
Keeping the door and drawer slightly open between washes also helps moisture escape, making a noticeable difference in preventing musty smells and keeping the machine fresh.
