How to deep clean your washing machine?

To deep clean your washing machine and keep it smelling fresh, you can choose professional solutions such as HG washing machine cleaner and odour freshener and HG washing machine and dishwasher deep clean and service. HG washing machine cleaner and odour freshener tackles build-up from dirt and detergent residue in drain pipes, filters and seals, while HG washing machine and dishwasher deep clean and service helps prevent breakdowns by removing build-up from critical components. You can also try household solutions, such as citric acid or baking soda. Although these methods can help, they are not always as effective as professional products. Regular maintenance, such as leaving the door and detergent drawer open after each wash and running an empty cycle at a high temperature, also helps keep your washing machine clean and fresh. Always check the manufacturer's maintenance instructions beforehand.

HG solutions for cleaning your washing machine

To deep clean your washing machine and keep it smelling fresh, we offer the following solutions:

• Use HG washing machine cleaner and odour freshener to remove build-up from dirt and detergent residue in drain pipes, filters and seals. Fill the main detergent drawer with 165 grams, approximately 150 ml, of this product, do not add any extra detergent and set the machine to a coloured wash at 60°C with no pre-wash. Let the programme run completely, including the spin cycle. Repeat once every 4 weeks, or more often if desired. Good for 3 treatments.
• Prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your washing machine with HG washing machine and dishwasher deep clean and service. This product cleans filters, floats, drain pipes and other hard-to-reach components that can wear due to build-up from soap, dirt and light limescale, helping to prevent breakdowns. Fill the main detergent drawer with one full bottle, 100 g, do not add any extra detergent and set to a coloured wash at 60°C. Let the programme run completely without interruption. Use approximately once per quarter.

For more information on cleaning and maintaining your washing machine, see our tips:

• How to maintain your washing machine
• How to get rid of washing machine smells
• How to descale your washing machine

Solutions for cleaning your washing machine

If you are looking for ways to deep clean your washing machine without professional products, here are some household solutions you can try:

• Try citric acid: dissolve 2 tablespoons of citric acid in 1 litre of warm water and pour it into the drum. Run the machine on a hot cycle for a fresh scent and to loosen build-up.
• Clean with baking soda: add 2 cups of baking soda to the drum and run the machine on a hot cycle. This can help tackle stubborn dirt and odours.
• Regularly wipe the rubber seal and detergent drawer with a damp cloth to prevent dirt and mould from accumulating.

Although these solutions can help clean your washing machine, they are not always as effective as professional products and may not solve all problems. If odours or dirt persist, we recommend choosing HG washing machine cleaner and odour freshener or HG washing machine and dishwasher deep clean and service.

Causes of a dirty washing machine

A washing machine can become dirty and develop unpleasant odours for various reasons. Here are the main causes:

• Build-up of detergent residue, dirt and grease in the rubber seal and drum.
• Stagnant water in the machine, especially if you keep the door closed after washing.
• Using too much detergent, which leaves residue in the machine.
• Washing at low temperatures, which may not fully remove bacteria and mould.

To prevent these problems in future, you can take the following steps:

• Leave the door and detergent drawer open after each wash so the machine can dry and no stagnant water is left behind.
• Use the recommended amount of detergent and occasionally run a wash cycle at a high temperature to help reduce bacteria.
• Regularly clean the rubber seal and drum with a damp cloth or special washing machine cleaning products.
• Once a month, run an empty cycle at a high temperature with a washing machine cleaner to prevent dirt and odour build-up. This regular maintenance routine will help ensure your washing machine stays fresh and operates efficiently for years to come.