Mould is a common unwelcome guest in the seals of washing machines, but it can also plague the detergent drawer and the hidden spaces behind it due to moisture accumulation.
The narrow and often shadowed crevices of a washing machine’s detergent drawer make it particularly susceptible to mould growth and difficult to keep spotless.
For those unsure about how to tackle such grime, one cleaning devotee has taken to social media to divulge her success in transforming her washing machine drawer from repulsive to spotless in mere minutes.
On the Mrs Hinch Army Cleaning Tips Facebook page, Sandra Picton shared her story, revealing a revolting layer of thick black mould that she found on her machine’s drawer.
Sandra said: “I was disgusted to find this much mould in the drawer of my washing machine. To think I was washing my baby’s clothes in there! My seven-month pregnant butt sat there and scrubbed it.”
Detailing her cleaning method, Sandra explained: “White vinegar and washing up liquid on a kitchen sponge with a fork stabbed into it so that I could reach the back. It took about 20 minutes but the results were amazing.”
White vinegar works well in obliterating upwards of 80 percent of mould varieties, as well as deterring regrowth.
This is fantastic for those who shy away from harsh chemicals and favour a more natural approach to a pristine and mould-free detergent drawer.
Fans of cleaning sensation Mrs Hinch have taken to the comments section to praise Sandra’s impressive transformation of her mouldy drawer, offering tips to keep it pristine in the future.
Claire Faux was wowed by the results, saying: “It’s amazing how quickly it builds up but you’ve done a brilliant job! Spotless.”
Linda Membury shared her own experience and advice: “I had to do mine the other week. I now always keep the draw open after every use (ok not practical if your washing machine is your way) but it doesn’t get mouldy anymore. Prevention is better than cure. Well done you. Looks amazing!”
Tina Uzzell revealed her go-to cleaning hack: “I love using soap and vinegar to clean any part of my washing machine, it’s the cheapest thing to use too.”
Experts recommend giving your washing machine drawer – and the machine itself – a thorough clean at least once a month.
While more frequent cleans are even better, aiming for a minimum of once a month is essential.
To prevent mould build-up, additional measures such as wiping down the drawer after each use or leaving it slightly ajar for better airflow can be effective.