Have you ever washed a load of laundry only to find it doesn't smell quite as fresh as it used to?
Over time, washing machines collect detergent residue, limescale and bacteria. Even if your machine looks clean on the outside, the inside can become the perfect place for build-up to develop—especially if you regularly wash at lower temperatures.
You definitely don't need harsh chemical washing machine cleaners. A few simple, natural ingredients and 20–30 minutes every month can help keep your machine fresh, working efficiently and smelling clean.
Why Washing Machines Need Cleaning
Modern washing machines are designed to save energy by washing at lower temperatures, but this means grease, detergent and fabric conditioner don't always rinse away completely.
Over time this can lead to:
- Musty smells
- Black mould around the door seal
- Detergent build-up
- Limescale (especially in hard water areas)
- Reduced cleaning performance
A quick monthly clean can help prevent these problems before they start.
What You'll Need
- 100–150g citric acid
- Oxygen bleach (optional, but excellent for removing organic build-up)
- A clean cloth
- An old toothbrush or small cleaning brush
Step 1: Clean the Detergent Drawer
Remove the drawer if possible.
Soak it in warm water with a little citric acid, then scrub away any residue using a brush.
Rinse well before replacing.
Step 2: Clean the Door Seal
Pull back the rubber seal carefully.
You'll often find moisture, lint and sometimes mould hiding inside.
Wipe thoroughly with a damp cloth.
If there's stubborn residue, make a paste using a little oxygen bleach and water, leave for 10–15 minutes, then wipe clean.
Step 3: Deep Clean the Drum
For general maintenance:
- Add 100–150g citric acid directly into the empty drum.
- Run the hottest cycle your machine allows (usually 60–90°C).
Citric acid helps dissolve limescale and mineral deposits without the harshness of stronger descalers.
If your machine has developed unpleasant smells or heavy organic build-up:
- Add oxygen bleach to the drum following the product instructions.
- Run a hot cycle.
Oxygen bleach helps lift stains and break down the organic residue that can cause odours.
*Avoid mixing oxygen bleach and citric acid together in the same wash cycle. They're both useful cleaners, but they work best when used separately.
Step 4: Clean the Filter
Check your washing machine manual to locate the filter.
Place a towel underneath before opening, as a little water may escape.
Remove lint, hair, coins and any trapped debris before rinsing and replacing the filter.
Many people are surprised by how much collects here!
Step 5: Leave the Door Open
Once the cycle has finished, leave both the washing machine door and detergent drawer slightly open.
This allows moisture to escape and helps prevent mould and musty smells developing.
How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
As a general guide:
- Every month for regular households
- More often if you regularly wash sportswear, pet bedding or cloth nappies
Little and often is much easier than dealing with heavy build-up later.
Common Questions
Can I use vinegar to clean my washing machine?
White vinegar is often recommended online, but repeated use may not be suitable for every washing machine manufacturer because of concerns about certain rubber seals and components over the long term.
Citric acid is generally a more effective option for removing limescale and leaves no lingering vinegar smell.
Always check your appliance manufacturer's guidance.
Can I use bicarbonate of soda?
Bicarbonate of soda can help neutralise odours, but it's less effective than citric acid for removing limescale.
For most washing machines, citric acid provides the better deep clean.
Why does my washing machine still smell?
Persistent smells are often caused by build-up behind the rubber seal, inside the detergent drawer or within the filter.
If the smell remains after cleaning, repeating the process and running an additional hot wash with oxygen bleach can often make a noticeable difference.
A Few Habits That Keep Your Machine Cleaner
Cleaning your machine monthly is only part of the picture.
You can also help by:
- Leaving the door open after each wash.
- Leaving the detergent drawer slightly open.
- Running an occasional hot wash.
- Using only the recommended amount of detergent.
- Cleaning the filter every few months.
These small habits can make a big difference to how well your machine performs.
Looking for Plastic-Free Cleaning Essentials?
At Arborfill, we believe effective cleaning doesn't need to rely on harsh chemicals or single-use plastic.
Our citric acid helps tackle limescale naturally, while oxygen bleach is brilliant for lifting stains, freshening laundry and helping remove organic build-up throughout the home.
Simple ingredients. Practical cleaning. Less waste.
Related reading:
- Fabric softener alternatives: how to keep clothes soft naturally
- What is oxygen bleach (7 ways to use at home)
- How to make laundry smell fresh without synthetic fragrance