Your washing machine works hard, so it deserves a little care of its own. Over time, detergent residue, limescale and damp can build up inside the drum, drawer and door seal, which can leave the machine and your laundry smelling less than fresh. The good news is that keeping it clean is quick and easy. Here is how to do it, and how to keep it fresh between washes.
How often should you clean your washing machine?
As a rule, give your machine a proper clean once a month. If you mostly wash at low temperatures or use the machine daily, you may want to do it a little more often. A quick wipe of the seal and drawer after a wash also goes a long way.
What you will need
• Fabulosa Washing Machine Cleaner
• A clean cloth or sponge
• An old toothbrush for the tricky bits
• Warm water
Step by step: cleaning your washing machine
1. Clean the detergent drawer. Slide the drawer out (most pull all the way free with a gentle press on the release catch). Rinse it under warm water and use the toothbrush to lift any residue from the corners, then dry and slot it back in.
2. Wipe the door seal. Fold back the rubber seal around the door and wipe inside the folds, where damp and residue tend to gather. A clean, fresh seal makes a real difference to how your machine smells.
3. Run a machine cleaner cycle. Add Fabulosa Washing Machine Cleaner to an empty drum, following the dosing guidance on the label, then run a hot cycle. This helps clean and freshen the parts of the machine you cannot easily reach.
4. Check the filter. Many machines have a filter behind a small panel at the front bottom. Place a shallow tray and towel underneath to catch water, unscrew it, clear any trapped debris, then refit it securely. Check your machine manual first.
5. Wipe down and leave to air. Give the drum, door and exterior a final wipe. Leave the door and drawer open between washes so the inside can dry out, which helps keep it fresh.
Keeping your machine fresh between cleans
A clean machine is the base for fresh laundry. Between monthly cleans, leave the door ajar to let air circulate, wipe the seal after heavy washes, and avoid overloading so everything rinses properly. Adding an in-wash fragrance boost or a laundry cleanser to your normal wash keeps clothes, towels and bedding smelling gorgeous too.
Frequently asked questions
How do I stop my washing machine smelling?
Most machine smells come from trapped damp and residue. Clean the drawer and seal, run a washing machine cleaner cycle, and leave the door open between washes to let it dry out.
Can I clean my washing machine without vinegar?
Yes. A dedicated washing machine cleaner is designed for the job and helps clean and freshen the machine in one cycle, with a lovely fragrance left behind.
How often should I clean my washing machine?
Once a month is a good routine for most households, or a little more often if you wash daily or mostly at low temperatures.
What temperature should the cleaning cycle be?
Run the cleaner on a hot cycle unless the product label advises otherwise. Always read the label before use.
Keep your whole wash routine fresh
A clean machine and a fresh wash go hand in hand. Once your machine is sorted with a washing machine cleaner, keep every load smelling gorgeous with a laundry cleanser, an in-wash fragrance boost or a fabric softener for softness and lasting scent. For more tips, read our guides on what a laundry cleanser is and how to use one and how to make your laundry smell amazing.
