Cleaning your washing machine doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive(Image: (Image: Getty))

Easy method to keep your washing machine clean and mould free

Cleaning expert Nancy Emery has shared her go-to method to clean your washing machine, and it involves a combination of essential oil and vinegar to cut through grime and eliminate bacteria

by · NottinghamshireLive

Recent research from Tap Warehouse has revealed that Brits are on the hunt for ways to keep their appliances in tip-top shape. The study, which analysed online searches beginning with "how to clean," pinpointed the most common concerns for homeowners.

It turns out washing machines are at the forefront of cleaning-related queries, which is hardly surprising given they're crucial for avoiding nasty smells and ensuring clothes come out spotless. Over time, all sorts of nasties like dirt, hair, and bacteria can gather in the drum, around the rubber seal, and in the detergent drawer, leading to mould, mildew, and those dreaded musty odours that can linger on your laundry.

To address this, Nancy Emery, Tap Warehouse's own cleaning guru, has offered a budget-friendly fix using items you're likely to have lying around at home. Nancy suggests a straightforward but powerful approach to give your machine a thorough cleanse, recommending a mix of essential oil and vinegar to slice through the muck and zap bacteria.

Discussing the issue of persistent bad smells, she advised: "To combat this, add around 10 drops of essential oil like lavender to two cups of white vinegar and pour this into your detergent dispenser on a hot cycle. Then add half a cup of baking soda and begin another hot cycle."

"This will effectively kill bacteria and cut through grime,", reports the Express."It's also worth cleaning the filter on a monthly basis to stop dirt from clogging up your washing machine.Ensure the machine is switched off and unplugged before removing the filter and then use a soft-bristled brush to remove any debris and then secure it back in place once done."

To keep your washing machine running for longer and prevent unpleasant odours, experts recommend leaving the door open after each wash.