Washing machine expert shares 5 warning signs that yours needs a serious clean and how to banish that rotten egg smell
YOUR washing machine will tell you when it’s in dire need of a clean, a product specialist has revealed.
According to appliance brand AEG’s Michael Forbes, there’s five warning signs you need to be looking out for.
The average UK family of four people uses their washing machine between eight to 10 times a week.
But despite this, AEG has found that two-third of Brits are not cleaning their machine as often as recommended.
And a scary 21% never clean theirs.
“Generally, a maintenance wash should be done at least once a month to keep the machine in the best possible condition and ensure clothes come out looking their best,” Michael recommended.
He also shared the five tell-tale signs you need to be on the lookout for.
Unpleasant Smells
A strong rotten egg-like smell is an indicator of bacteria build-up inside the machine which can lead to mould growth.
Equally, if laundry comes out smelling musty or damp this is also an indicator that the machine’s filter needs to be cleaned.
How to combat?
Washing machine cleaner should be added into the drum of the machine.
However, a cup of bicarbonate of soda mixed with half a cup of white vinegar can also be used.
Set the machine to its highest temperature wash or (if your machine has one) use the cleaning cycle.
This will allow the cleaner to fully purge the machine of any bacteria build-up.
How to prevent?
Be sure to leave the door and detergent drawer slightly open after each wash to allow fresh air in.
Wiping down the seals regularly after several washes will help too.
Black Residue on the Door Seal
Black, slimy residue indicates the presence of black mould which can build-up and transfer onto your laundry.
Rubber door seals are especially prone to this as leftover water and soap scum can aid bacteria growth.
How to combat?
White vinegar is the best solution as it can better penetrate into the rubber surface, killing the mould spores at their root.
Simply decant some white vinegar into a spray bottle and spray this across the affected area to soak for an hour.
Wipe down afterwards using a wet, clean cloth.
How to prevent?
It’s a good habit to give the rubber seals a quick wipe down after each wash cycle with a clean cloth.
This will remove any leftover water residue and soap scum.
It’s also best to leave the machine door open to dispel any damp air.
15 Cleaning Hacks That Will Blow Your Mind
Here are some tips to help you clean your home like a pro:
- How to clean your washing machine in a few easy steps
- Keep on top of cleaning your oven regularly
- Clean your shower to ensure it’s always sparkling
- How to clean your microwave using cheap household items
- Here’s how to get rid of that nasty limescale in your kettle
- You’re cleaning your carpet all wrong – here’s how to get it spotless again in no time
- Unblock a toilet without a plunger
- Clean your fabric or leather sofa in a few easy steps
- If you haven’t cleaned your mattress in ages, here’s how
- Steps to cleaning your dishwasher to leave it looking brand new
- This is how to clean mirrors and windows without streaking
- Keep your toilet clean in four easy steps
- Give your TV screen a once-over
- Did you know your Venetian, Roman, vertical, or roller blinds also need cleaning?
- Deep-clean your fridge in five simple steps
Leftover Detergent Marks
It is normal for there to be a little bit of leftover detergent in the drawer whether using liquid or powder.
But over time, this can build-up causing mould and mildew growth.
How to combat?
Add a cup of white vinegar to the machine drum and run a full hot wash cycle as this will help to break down any remaining residue and remove any scum marks from the machine’s drum.
It is also important to regularly clean the detergent drawer to prevent mould growth.
Simply remove the drawer from the machine and wash using an antibacterial spray or hot soapy water.
Don’t forget to wipe out the area where the drawer sits into the machine to ensure you have removed any mould, Michael added.
How to prevent?
Try to reduce the amount of detergent you are using for each wash – it’s likely you are overdosing.
Chalky Deposits in the Drum
Powdery white deposits in the machine drum indicate a build-up of limescale. Not only can this cause damage to the machine itself, but also your clothes.
How to combat?
Add half a cup of bicarbonate of soda into the interior drum before selecting the hottest wash cycle available.
This will help to dissolve the limescale in the machine.
How to prevent?
You can add a handful of soda crystals into each clothes wash.
The crystals help to soften the water in the machine whilst also combating any bacteria.
Dirty Clothing
A more obvious indicator that your washing machine needs to be cleaned is when laundry comes out still dirty.
This can be in the form of black spots on clothing items, grey greasy sludge, or coloured streaks.
All of these cases indicate the machine needs to be cleaned out to remove any leftover residue and soap build-up – so try all of the above steps.