How to Clean Your Washing Machine Drum and Prevent Mould Build-Up

How to Clean Your Washing Machine Drum and Prevent Mould

A washing machine is supposed to clean things. But over time, washing machines accumulate detergent residue, fabric softener build-up, minerals from hard water and biological matter from dirty laundry. Left unattended, this creates the ideal environment for mould and mildew, leading to that distinctive musty smell and potentially transferring bacteria to your clothes. This guide shows you how to clean the drum properly and keep it clean long-term.

Why Washing Machines Get Dirty

Front-load washing machines are more prone to mould than top-loaders because water tends to sit in the door seal (gasket) and the drum after a wash. Modern low-temperature washing programmes (30–40°C) also don't kill bacteria and mould the way older hot washes did. High-efficiency detergents used in small quantities can also leave residue if not rinsed thoroughly.

How Often Should You Clean the Drum?

As a general rule, clean the drum thoroughly once a month. If you use the machine heavily (daily loads, washing for a large household or many sportswear items), clean it every two to three weeks. If you notice a musty smell, clean it immediately regardless of when you last did it.

Step-by-Step Drum Cleaning

Method 1: Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets

The simplest approach. Products like Calgon, Finish or Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner are widely available from supermarkets.

1. Place one or two tablets directly in the drum (not the detergent drawer)
2. Run the machine on its hottest setting (60–90°C) with no laundry
3. Once complete, wipe down the inside of the drum with a clean cloth

Method 2: White Vinegar and Bicarbonate of Soda

An effective natural alternative that removes mineral deposits and kills bacteria.

1. Pour 500ml of white vinegar into the detergent drawer
2. Add 100g of bicarbonate of soda directly into the drum
3. Run the machine on a hot cycle (60°C or above) with no laundry
4. When the cycle finishes, wipe down the drum interior, door seal and door glass

Method 3: Bleach (for severe mould)

If the drum has visible mould or a very persistent smell, diluted bleach is effective.

1. Add 100ml of household bleach to the detergent drawer
2. Run a full hot cycle with no laundry
3. Follow with an additional rinse cycle to clear any bleach residue
4. Do not mix bleach with vinegar — use one or the other

Cleaning the Door Seal (Gasket)

The rubber gasket around the front loader door is the most common place for mould to grow. After cleaning the drum:

• Pull back the folds of the rubber gasket and inspect for black mould spots
• Spray with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar, or a diluted bleach solution
• Scrub with an old toothbrush to get into the folds
• Wipe clean with a dry cloth
• Leave the door open after every wash to allow air circulation and prevent moisture build-up

Cleaning the Detergent Drawer

Remove the detergent drawer completely (there's usually a release tab). Rinse it under hot water and use an old toothbrush to scrub away hardened detergent and softener residue. Leave it to dry before replacing it.

Preventive Habits That Make a Difference

• Always leave the door slightly open after a wash to let the drum dry out
• Remove laundry promptly — wet clothes left sitting in the drum create mould conditions
• Use the right amount of detergent — more isn't better; excess detergent creates more residue
• Run a hot cycle (60°C+) at least once a week, even if most of your washing is done at lower temperatures
• Wipe the door seal dry after each use if mould has been a persistent problem

When Cleaning Isn't Enough

If the smell persists after thorough cleaning, the machine may have a drainage issue, a blocked filter or a fault with the drum bearing. If the smell is chemical rather than musty, there may be a detergent residue issue in the pump or pipes. In these cases, an appliance technician can inspect further.

Oceania Appliances stocks a wide range of washing machines across Sydney as ex-display and graded units. If your machine is old and the smell is persistent despite cleaning, it may be time to upgrade — contact us to discuss options.