There’s nothing worse than opening a washing machine only to be met with an unpleasant odour.
A mouldy, musty or even an eggy smell could indicate there’s a mould problem or a build-up of nasty bacteria.
The reason this happens is because when clothes are put in the machine, the dirt, body oils and any scum gets trapped in the appliance’s components which can cause a nasty smell to develop over time.
Luckily, washing machines can be cleaned which should eradicate the smell while extending the life of the machine.
Rather than reaching for chemicals, Laura Harnett, the founder of Seep eco cleaning tools, has shared how to remove nasty smells from washing machines using soda crystals.
Laura exclusively told Express.co.uk: “Once all the components of the machine have been individually cleaned, then run the machine on a hot cycle with 500g of soda crystals and one cup of white vinegar placed in the drum.
“This will banish all smells for good, treat the full machine to kill any bacteria and means your washing will be fresh smelling and the machine will have a longer life.”
Soda crystals soften water which is why they’re brilliant at cleaning washing machines.
The softer the water, the less detergent homeowners need to use to clean their laundry.
The soda crystals also help eliminate any limescale or detergent build-up in washing machines.
Most importantly, soda crystals should deodorise the machine, removing any unpleasant smells.
Soda crystals can also be used to clean dirty pots and pans, remove stains from clothes, soften towels and unclog drains.
Soda crystals can be bought online or from local shops and hardware stores.
Dri Pak soda crystals cost £2 from Sainsbury’s and Tesco and £2.50 from B&Q.
The brand describes the product as a “highly popular and effective multipurpose cleaner”.
