A washing machine is one of life's greatest inventions. Gone are the days of exhausting manual cleaning, while one wash can get your clothes looking like new.
But these machines can need cleaning too. This is especially true when it comes to the detergent drawer.
Washing machine drawers can often go mouldy due to the moisture combined with washing-up powders and fabric softeners. It doesn't help that the narrow drawers can be difficult to clean.
So, what is the best way to get your washing machine drawer sparkling clean? Well, one option is to splash out on single-use cleaning products that may not even work.
Well, for fans of cleaning guru Mrs Hinch - real name Sophie Hinchliffe - the process is simple, and only uses one household item that you probably have in your kitchen cupboards already, reports the Mirror.
Got your own cleaning tips? Share them in the comments below.
Posting on the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips Facebook group, one person asked recently: “Has anybody got any suggestions on how to get rid of black mould in the washing machine drawer?” And cleaning fans were quick to respond, with several people telling the woman to remove the drawer and soak it in a bowl of water and washing up liquid - which can be bought for as little as 34p from Asda.
One person said: “Washing up liquid is great for this, simple and so effective.”
For the best results, Mrs Hinch fans recommend cleaning the drawer after every use, so that mould doesn't have the chance to build up.
There are many reasons why mould may grow in the washing machine drawer, including excess detergent, which can cause soap scum that can get caught and turn into mould. Washing at temperatures below 40 degrees regularly can also leave behind some residue, which facilitates the growth of mould and dirt.
Meanwhile, other cleaning fans recommended using white vinegar instead of washing up liquid, as the product is known for its versatile uses in tackling a variety of cleaning jobs. It can dissolve hard water and cut through grime, making it ideal for washing machine drawers.
And for another alternative, some commenters in the same Facebook group suggested putting the drawer in the dishwasher if you have one, or soaking it in water with a dishwasher tablet.
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