A surprisingly effective cleaning trick many people swear by is simply pouring a bowl of salt into the washing machine. No matter how dirty the drum is, this method helps clean it until it looks almost brand new.

Nowadays, washing machines have become an essential household appliance, helping families save time and effort. However, because they are used frequently, the inside of the machine can accumulate bacteria, dirt, and detergent residue if not cleaned regularly. This buildup not only affects the machine’s performance but can also leave your freshly washed clothes full of invisible germs. One popular and simple solution is to use a bowl of salt to clean the machine quickly and effectively.

Cleaning the Washing Machine With a Bowl of Salt

After months of continuous use, the inside of a washing machine can become surprisingly dirty. Clothes worn throughout the day carry bacteria, sweat, oils, and dust. These contaminants stick to the inner drum and the small crevices of the washer. If not cleaned in time, your clothes may still look clean after washing but actually remain covered in microorganisms.

To clean the machine, dissolve salt in hot water, then add a small amount of laundry detergent. Stir well until bubbles form, then pour this mixture into the washing machine. Salt has natural disinfecting and antibacterial properties, making it ideal for cleaning household appliances—especially washing machines that frequently encounter moisture and dirt.

After pouring the mixture inside, fill the drum with water and let it soak for about 30 minutes. Then run a full wash cycle. As the machine operates, dirt stuck on the drum walls will loosen and drain out with the water.

If you prefer, you can also replace table salt with baking soda. Baking soda is widely used in cooking, but few people realize it can also be used as a powerful cleaning agent for cookware, kitchen utensils, and washing machines.

For cleaning stains on the exterior or the drum opening, mix baking soda with a little water to create a thick paste. Dip a damp cloth into this mixture and scrub the dirty surfaces. Baking soda’s natural disinfecting and deodorizing qualities help eliminate bacteria and grime more effectively than wiping with a damp cloth alone.

Other Ways to Clean Your Washing Machine

1. Using Hot Water and Bleach

Most modern top-load and front-load washing machines come with a built-in self-cleaning mode. If your machine doesn’t have this feature, choose a wash program that allows the water to heat up. Add a small amount of bleach to the drum to remove stubborn stains more quickly.

Note: Never place clothes inside during this process, as the dirt and residue inside the washer may transfer onto your garments or damage the fabric.

2. Using Disinfectant Spray

Prepare a natural cleaning solution and a clean cloth. Wipe down the entire drum carefully until it is completely dry.
Next, spray a disinfectant inside the washing machine—especially into the air vents and hard-to-reach corners where dirt tends to accumulate. Any areas you can reach with your hand should be cleaned thoroughly.

To remove dust inside the ventilation holes or around crevices, use a handheld vacuum cleaner or a vacuum designed for tight spaces.

3. Cleaning With White Vinegar and Baking Soda

For top-load washers, fill the drum with hot water, then add 3–4 cups of white vinegar and half a cup of baking soda.
For front-load machines, pour the vinegar and baking soda mixture directly into the drum before starting the wash cycle.

Set the machine to run a full wash so the mixture can dissolve, circulate, and reach every corner of the drum. Vinegar’s acidity combined with baking soda’s alkalinity helps eliminate mold, mildew, and long-standing dirt.
Let the solution soak for 30–60 minutes for the best effect. After that, allow the machine to drain completely. When the cycle finishes, use a dry cloth to wipe the drum to remove any remaining moisture. This completes a deep and effective cleaning process.