DIY Low-Tox Washing Machine Deep Clean

Your washing machine does a lot of cleaning, but every now and then it needs a clean of its own.

Detergent, fabric softener, body oils, dirt and moisture can build up inside the drum, seals and detergent drawer over time. If your machine has started smelling a little musty or your freshly washed laundry isn’t smelling quite as fresh as it should, it might be time for a reset.

You don't need fancy products to get your machine back in to top condition. This simple washing machine deep clean uses just a few ingredients and works for both front and top loaders.

You’ll need

• 1/4 cup Washing Soda
• 2 tablespoons Sodium Percarbonate
• 1 teaspoon Castile Soap
• 1 cup warm water
• Clean cloth and small cleaning brush

How to clean your washing machine

Step 1: Clean the detergent drawer

Remove the detergent drawer if your machine allows it. Add the Castile Soap to the warm water and use this to wipe or scrub away detergent and softener residue. Rinse well.

Step 2: Wipe around the seals

For front loaders, gently pull back the rubber door seal and wipe underneath and around the folds. This is one of those spots that is very easy to forget.

Step 3: Deep clean the drum

Make sure the machine is completely empty.

Add the Washing Soda and Sodium Percarbonate directly into the drum.

Run your washing machine's Drum Clean cycle. If your machine does not have one, use a long hot cycle that is suitable for your machine.

Sodium Percarbonate activates when it comes into contact with hot water, releasing oxygen that helps loosen grime and tackle lingering odours.

Step 4: Wipe and dry

Once the cycle has finished, wipe around the drum, door and seals with a clean cloth.

Leave the washing machine door and detergent drawer slightly open afterwards so everything can dry properly.

How often should you do it?

For most homes, a deep clean every month or two is plenty. You may want to do it more often if you wash frequently, use fabric softener or notice musty smells developing.

A few important things to know

Do not mix Sodium Percarbonate with vinegar or Citric Acid. Keep the ingredients dry until you are ready to use them.

You also don't need essential oils in this recipe. The goal is to actually remove the source of the smell rather than cover it with fragrance.

Always check your washing machine manufacturer's cleaning instructions before using DIY cleaning ingredients, particularly if your machine has a dedicated Drum Clean program.