People have been tossing two household items into their washing machine to banish bad smells once and for all. The trick only needs to be done around once a month and doesn’t cost more than £1 to try out.
If you’ve noticed your washing machine smells bad or your clothes are coming out with an unpleasant odour rather than being fresh and clean, then it’s worth investigating the issue, as it may get worse. TikTok user Kerrie (@kerriemariehome) shared her inexpensive trick online for people wanting to banish foul odours from their washing machines.
It uses two household items, so it won’t involve tipping a cocktail of chemicals inside the expensive piece of equipment. It uses one lemon, chopped in half and smothered in a bit of toothpaste.
She wrote in the caption: “Does your washing machine smell? Use this quick hack.Toss lemon halves into your empty washer and run the washer on speed wash with very hot water. After the cycle is finished, you have a fresh-smelling washer – and for very little cost.”
The clip showed the water inside the machine frothing up with a mixture of lemon juice and toothpaste. Some were unconvinced by this bizarre-looking cleaning hack, but others were quick to defend its results.
People in the comments vouched for this method after trying it for themselves. One said: “I was shocked how clean and sparkly my washing machine is after that! And also beautiful smell, 1000% recommend this.”
Another added: “The lemon works in the dishwasher too. It acts as a rinse aid. I’ve used the skins of lemons for the last 15+ years.” A third put: “Tried this today, my machine smells like new and has gotten rid of whatever nasty smell was in there.”
Someone else asked: “How often do you do this?” And Kerrie responded: “Every 3 weeks”.
People can get a cheap pack of Wonky Lemons from Aldi in a 4-pack for 79p (about 20p per lemon) as well as some of the store’s own-brand Dentitex Toothpaste for 69p.
What makes this cleaning hack work?
Another content creator (@anna_louisa_at_home) explained why this method of cleaning might be doing wonders for washing machines around the world when the ‘hack’ first went viral. She wrote: “The toothpaste is a little abrasive, so it helps remove any dirt and grime built up.
“The acid in lemon juice is a natural antibacterial, so they make the perfect duo to freshen your washing machine!” Trying it for herself, the cleaning expert added: “It worked a treat! Left my washing machine drum clean and smelling amazing!”
What can cause washing machines to have a bad smell to begin with?
A smelly washing machine is typically caused by the buildup of mould and mildew. This is often due to excess moisture, trapped detergent and fabric softener residue, and bacteria thriving in these conditions.
Other factors may include a clogged filter or drain, stagnant water, infrequent use, leaving wet clothes inside too long, and dirty seals or dispensers. Making sure you check every inch of your machine will help to identify where the problem is comimg from.
How can I prevent bad smells from returning?
Experts suggest doing a handful of simple things to make sure your washing machine is less likely to become a source of foul smells. These don’t have to cost much, and could prevent future issues that may leave your home or clothes smelling unpleasant:
- Clean Regularly: Clean the detergent drawer, door seal, and filter on a routine basis.
- Run Hot Cycles: Periodically run your washing machine on a hot cycle to kill bacteria.
- Use Less Detergent: Avoid using too much detergent or fabric softener.
- Remove Clothes Promptly: Take clothes out of the washer as soon as the cycle is finished.
- Leave the Door Open: Leave the washing machine door ajar after a wash to allow it to dry out. This will stop any moisture build-up