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How to clean your washing machine

Want to keep your washing machine in good condition? Here are some tips to combat the buildup of bacteria, odour, limescale and more.

Dirty clothes lead to dirty washing machines

We all know our clothes and linen can pick up dirt bad odour, bacteria and viruses as we go about our days. Think your little one’s shirts and socks used during football practice, your pet’s bedding, your underwear and more. The impurities from such articles of clothing can have a lasting impact on your washing machine performance.

How to clean your washing machine

1. Clean the detergent drawer

This little space can be a haven for mould, bacteria, and old, persistent detergent. This drawer can get dirty quite quickly so it’s always a good idea to clean and maintain it regularly. For great results, take out the drawer if possible, spray with an antibacterial cleaner, and give it a good scrub. Finally rinse the draw with water and wipe dry before attaching it back into the washing machine.

2. Freshen up the filter and door seal

These catch dirt, lint, tissues and other remains that could otherwise be hanging around loose in your drum. Remove the filter and give it a good clean. Lastly, wipe down the door seal regularly too.

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3. Use an antibacterial washing machine cleaner

Even if your washing machine appears clean, there’s a chance that it’s not. There are lots of nooks and crannies where dirt can hide. We recommend using a powerful cleaner like Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner* in an empty wash to help remove bacteria, bad odour, hidden dirt, limescale and mould. Use every 2 months to leave your washing machine with a long-lasting freshness.

4. Stop taking bacteria for a spin

Use our Antibacterial Laundry Cleanser*. This product can be used as an additive in your daily laundry loads, and even works in colder wash cycles. It kills odour causing bacteria on clothes. What’s better is that this antibacterial cleanser also offers 12-hour freshness, even when damp clothes are left in the washing machine.

Even though the washing machine is frequently overlooked when it comes to spring cleaning, it shouldn’t be. For more helpful tips on what products you can use when it comes to maintaining good hygiene in your home, visit tips page.

*Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use.

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