A Simple Trick to Make Your Washing Machine Look Brand New Again

There’s a clever household hack that many people swear by: simply pour a bowl of salt inside your washing machine, and no matter how dirty it is, it’ll soon look sparkling clean—almost like new.

Nowadays, the washing machine has become an essential household appliance, saving time and effort in daily chores. However, because it’s used so frequently, dirt, detergent residue, and bacteria tend to build up over time. If not cleaned regularly, these contaminants can affect the machine’s performance, cause unpleasant odors, and even harm your health. Fortunately, with a simple bowl of salt, you can clean it easily and effectively right at home.

Cleaning Your Washing Machine with Salt

After extended use, the inside of your washing machine can get quite dirty. Clothes carry bacteria, sweat, and dust, and after washing, some of this grime remains trapped in the small gaps and corners of the drum. Over time, this buildup can make even freshly washed clothes smell musty or feel unclean.

To fix this, dissolve a bowl of salt in hot water, then add a small amount of laundry detergent. Stir until the solution becomes foamy, and pour it directly into the washing drum. Salt acts as a natural disinfectant and deodorizer, killing germs and removing grime that regular washing cycles often miss.

Next, fill the drum with water and let it soak for about 30 minutes. After soaking, start a full wash cycle to rinse away all the loosened dirt and residue. When done, you’ll notice the inside of your washing machine looks visibly brighter and cleaner.

For even better results, you can substitute regular salt with baking soda. Although baking soda is commonly used in cooking, it’s also a powerful natural cleaning agent that helps remove stubborn stains and neutralize odors. It’s gentle, non-toxic, and safe for most household appliances.

To clean the outer surface of the machine, mix baking soda with a little water to form a soft paste. Dip a damp cloth into this mixture and wipe down the surface, focusing on any stained or greasy areas. Baking soda’s mild abrasiveness and antibacterial properties will help remove dirt more effectively than using a damp cloth alone.

Other Effective Washing Machine Cleaning Methods

1. Hot Water and Bleach

Most modern washing machines—both top-load and front-load—have a self-cleaning mode. If yours doesn’t, choose a washing program that uses hot water to help kill bacteria and dissolve detergent residue.
Add a small amount of bleach to boost cleaning power and eliminate mold or mildew buildup.
⚠️ Important: Do not put clothes in the washer while cleaning. Wait until the cleaning cycle is completely finished, as leftover dirt or bleach residue could damage fabrics.

2. Disinfectant Spray

If you prefer a gentler option, use a natural disinfectant spray or cleaner. Wipe the drum thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth, then lightly spray disinfectant inside the drum and around the air vents. This helps remove stubborn grime and prevent bacteria from accumulating in hidden corners.
For hard-to-reach areas, use a small handheld vacuum to suck out dust and lint buildup inside the air vents and other narrow spaces.

3. Vinegar and Baking Soda

For a deep, natural clean, try combining white vinegar and baking soda.

• For top-loading machines, fill the drum with hot water, add 3–4 cups of white vinegar and ½ cup of baking soda, then let it sit for 30–60 minutes before starting the wash cycle.

• For front-loading machines, pour the vinegar and baking soda directly into the drum before starting the cycle.

This combination creates a mild chemical reaction that helps dissolve soap scum, kill bacteria, and remove mold spores. Once the cycle finishes, wipe the drum with a dry towel to absorb any leftover moisture and prevent mildew from forming again.

Maintenance Tips for a Fresher, Longer-Lasting Machine

• Clean your washing machine every 2–4 weeks if you use it frequently.

• Always leave the door open for a few hours after each wash to allow air circulation and prevent odor buildup.

• Remove and rinse the detergent drawer regularly to stop mold from forming there.

• Avoid using too much detergent—excess soap can lead to residue and bacteria growth inside the drum.

By following these simple steps—especially the salt or baking soda trick—you can keep your washing machine fresh, clean, and running efficiently for years.