Mould is notorious for thriving in washing machines, with the rubber seal being a prime target.

If not addressed, black mould can cause significant damage to the rubber seal and lead to deterioration. Eventually, this could result in your washing machine developing leaks.

The growth of black mould in the washing machine detergent drawer is also a frequent issue, as fabric conditioners, detergents, and fabric softeners often leave behind residues that accumulate in the nooks and crannies of the drawer.

Black mould thrives on the moisture and nutrients that are found in the soap remnants.

One woman, uncertain about how to eliminate mould from both the drawer and seal, sought advice on the Mrs Hinch Army Cleaning Tips Facebook page.

Caroline Harrison posted: “Any quick tips to get mould out of my washing machine seal and also the drawer?”

While there’s an array of mould removal products available for washing machines, it’s always worth trying natural home remedies first.

A popular home remedy involves using a mix of baking soda and white vinegar.

Yet, in the comments section of the group, members suggested Caroline try a different approach – soda crystals.

Lonnie Engleman advised: “I use soda crystals on a hot wash and it worked wonders for me.”

Maureen Huggan recommended: “Half a bag of soda crystals in the drum and put it through the hottest wash. It cleans all the pipes as well.”

Karen France recommended a cleaning hack, saying: “Remove the drawer and soak in hot water with soda crystals. For the seal run the washer on a hot wash with soda crystals and the mould vanishes.”

Ebony Wright shared her advice: “Soda crystals deep clean washing machines well just stick half a bag in the drum and run it on a hot wash.”

Amanda Richards recounted her experience with a Hotpoint engineer’s suggestion: “I was told by a Hotpoint engineer to use soda crystals in the drum of my washing machine to get rid of any mould as it’s powerful. It worked so well.”

Sue Avery detailed her approach to machine maintenance: “I cleaned my washing machine seal and drawer with 500g of soda crystals. To remove limescale I use 250g of citric acid.”

Regular upkeep for household washing machine drawers should ideally be every three months, especially for frequent users of laundry liquid or fabric softener.