The Ingenious Trick for Cleaning the Washing Machine Drawer: It’s Like New Again and Free of Mould

1. Remove the Drawer

• First, take the detergent drawer out of the washing machine. Most washing machines have a simple release mechanism that allows you to slide the drawer out easily. If your model is tricky, check the user manual for guidance.

2. Soak the Drawer

• Fill a basin or your sink with hot water (enough to fully submerge the drawer). Add 1/4 cup of white vinegar to the water. The vinegar will help to dissolve soap scum and kill any mould or mildew.
• Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda to the mixture. This acts as a natural scrubber that will help to lift grime, mould, and detergent residue.
• Place the drawer in the soaking solution and leave it to sit for 30-60 minutes. The longer you let it soak, the more effective the cleaning process will be.

3. Scrub with a Toothbrush

• After soaking, use an old toothbrush (or a small cleaning brush) to scrub any visible mould, soap scum, or grime from the drawer. Focus on the corners, crevices, and the parts of the drawer that have the most buildup.
• For stubborn mould or grime, dip the toothbrush into the soaking solution and scrub with more force. You may need to give it a few extra rounds of scrubbing in areas with heavy build-up.

4. Clean the Rails & Surrounding Areas

• While the drawer is soaking, use the toothbrush or a soft cloth to clean the area around the drawer where it slides in. Mould and detergent residue can also build up on these parts, so it’s important to keep them clean to prevent future mould growth.
• Wipe down the interior of the drawer compartment inside the washing machine with a cloth soaked in the hot vinegar-water solution.

5. Rinse and Dry Thoroughly

• Rinse the drawer thoroughly with warm water to remove any leftover soap, vinegar, and residue.
• Use a microfiber cloth or paper towels to dry the drawer completely. Make sure it is completely dry before reinserting it into the washing machine.

6. Clean the Drawer Compartment

• Once the drawer is clean and dry, take the opportunity to clean the inside of the compartment where the drawer fits. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any soap scum or dirt.
• If you see any mould, apply a bit of white vinegar directly to the affected areas and wipe away.

7. Reassemble and Prevent Future Mould Growth

• Slide the drawer back into its compartment and make sure it’s secure.
• To prevent future mould buildup, leave the drawer slightly ajar after every wash to allow air circulation and prevent moisture from collecting inside.
• Clean the drawer regularly—a quick wipe-down every few weeks will help keep it in top condition.

Why This Trick Works:

• Baking soda is a natural abrasive that helps to scrub away stubborn dirt and soap scum without damaging surfaces.
• White vinegar is a powerful, natural disinfectant that kills bacteria and mould. It also helps to dissolve soap residue and mineral deposits, which are common causes of build-up in washing machine drawers.
• Soaking in hot water allows the grime and build-up to loosen, making it easier to remove.

Bonus Tips to Keep Your Washing Machine Fresh:

1. Use Less Detergent: Overuse of detergent can lead to soap scum buildup in your washing machine. Be mindful of how much detergent you’re using, as too much can cause residues that build up in your drawer.
2. Use Vinegar in Your Wash: Add a cup of white vinegar to the drum of your washing machine every few months to clean and freshen it. This can help to prevent soap residue and build-up.
3. Keep the Drawer Open: After each load, leave the washing machine drawer slightly open for air circulation. This helps moisture evaporate and prevents mould from forming.
4. Check the Seals: Inspect the rubber seals around your washing machine door regularly. These seals can trap moisture and become a breeding ground for mould. Clean them with a vinegar-water solution if you notice any build-up.

Conclusion:

By following this simple, natural trick, you can remove mould and grime from your washing machine drawer, leaving it looking like new again. Baking soda and white vinegar are both effective and eco-friendly ingredients that do the heavy lifting in this cleaning method. Plus, the best part is that this trick not only restores the drawer’s appearance but also helps keep your washing machine in great working condition.

Regular maintenance and cleaning will prevent the problem from recurring, leaving you with a fresh-smelling, mould-free washing machine that’s ready to take on every load of laundry