There is nothing worse than having a foul-smelling washing machine which causes your laundry to have a musty or damp smell.

According to Kelly’s Dry Cleaners, the most common cause of smelly washing machines “is the accumulation of detergent powder, soap scum, oil, and hair in the different parts of your washing machine. These get trapped in your washing machine’s seals, gaskets, dispensers, or even in the drum, itself.”

The more you use your washing machine, the more these unwanted residues deposit into your washing machine, making it smell worse by the day.

Luckily, a new hack is trending all over social media which sees people using two common household items that will refresh and rejuvenate your machines.

A popular British creator on Instagram called renovation_44 shared the viral hack which is completely strange but is guaranteed to leave your washing machines smelling fresh and clean.

Placing toothpaste on lemons, she shared: “I know what you’re thinking but hear me out. For a quick and easy washing machine clean, just cut a lemon in half, add toothpaste, and throw it into your washing machine to rid odours and leave your washing machine absolutely sparkling.”

Another creator shared this hack on TikTok and explained the purpose of using these key items. Anna (@anna_louisa_at_home) explained that when using toothpaste it is slightly abrasive which aids in the removal of accumulated dirt and grime.

On the other hand, the acid in lemon juice acts as a natural antibacterial. Together, they make the perfect pair to freshen up your washing machine.

Taking to the comments, one person enquired: “And what does the inside of the rubber in the door look like?” To which Anna responded: “Spotless! I dry it after every wash to prevent any mould.”

Another asked: “Are there any lemon leftovers?” Anna replied: “Haha rarely!”

Someone else exclaimed: “I am gonna try this!” The creator beamed and said: “It makes it smell so fresh!”