You won’t believe how this 5-minute trick banishes washing machine odours for good!

Why your post-holiday washing machine needs a quick deep clean

Returning from vacation often means a mountain of laundry—and your washing machine has worked nonstop to tackle piles of clothes, towels and sheets. It’s the unsung hero of household chores, but after so many cycles, it can start to harbour unpleasant odours. A whiff of dampness or mustiness when you open the door is all it takes to realise your appliance needs some TLC. Thankfully, with just five minutes of care and everyday household ingredients, you can restore freshness and keep your laundry smelling heavenly.

Gather your cleaning essentials

Before you begin, assemble these simple items:

White vinegar (a natural disinfectant and descaler)

Baking soda or lemon juice (to tackle limescale and grime)

An all-purpose degreaser spray or a vinegar-water solution

An old toothbrush or small scrubbing brush

A soft, non-abrasive sponge and a few clean microfiber cloths

A bucket or large bowl of hot water

With this toolkit, you’re ready for a speedy but thorough cleaning session.

Step 1: Wipe down the exterior

Start by refreshing the outside of the machine:

Spray the degreaser or vinegar solution across the door, control panel and side panels.

Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth, paying attention to detergent splashes and dust buildup.

Dry with a second cloth so no streaks remain.

This quick wipe removes surface grime and prepares you for the deeper clean inside.

Step 2: Clean the detergent drawer

The detergent compartment is a prime spot for mould and residue:

Pull out the drawer completely and soak it in hot water mixed with a splash of vinegar.

Use the toothbrush to scrub away hardened detergent or fabric softener in crevices.

Rinse thoroughly under running water, then dry before sliding back into the machine.

Keeping this drawer spotless prevents blockages and ensures fresh-scented washes.

Step 3: Refresh the drum and gasket

The drum and rubber seal can trap moisture and bacteria:

Sprinkle baking soda around the inside of the drum or apply lemon juice to the gasket.

Gently scrub with a non-abrasive sponge, focusing on folds of the rubber seal where dirt accumulates.

Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue.

This removes hidden grime and helps the drum breathe – crucial for preventing musty smells.

Step 4: Run a high-temperature empty cycle

To kill off any lingering bacteria and flush out cleaner residues:

Set your machine to a 90°C or highest-heat cotton cycle.

Add two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum (no laundry).

Let the cycle complete fully.

This hot, vinegar-infused wash acts as a powerful steriliser, leaving your drum pristine.

Step 5: Tackle the filter and drainage channel

Cleaning the filter clears blockages and avoids future odours:

Locate the filter access panel (usually at the base front), and open it carefully.

Remove the filter, rinse under warm water, and dislodge any collected lint or debris.

Use a small brush or cloth to clean inside the housing, then replace the filter securely.

Regular filter maintenance prevents water stagnation and keeps your machine running smoothly.

Post-cleaning best practices

To maintain freshness, follow these daily habits:

Always leave the door and detergent drawer ajar after a wash to air out the interior.

Set occasional washes at 40°C or higher to limit bacterial growth.

Avoid overfilling the drum—garments need room to move for an effective clean.

Run an empty hot wash with vinegar every two to three months for ongoing hygiene.

Tips for lasting laundry bliss

Beyond a quick deep clean, these extra steps can enhance your laundry routine:

Switch to high-quality, low-residue detergents and avoid overdosing.

Use washing machine cleaning tablets occasionally for an added boost.

Clean door seals, rubber gaskets and rubber boots weekly to catch issues early.

Install a water softener if you have hard water to prevent limescale buildup.

A breath of fresh laundry

Just five minutes of focused effort can transform your machine from odour-trap to freshness powerhouse. With these steps, you’ll extend the lifespan of your appliance, protect your fabrics and relish the clean, crisp scent of laundry straight from a sparkling machine. Delight in the simple pleasure of fresh, fragrant clothes—every single wash.