How to Clean a Washing Machine (Naturally & Effectively)

Cleaning your washing machine isn't just about hygiene; it’s about performance. Over time, soap scum, limescale, and bacteria build up, leading to that dreaded "damp" smell on your clean clothes.

Using a combination of MadeKind Bathroom Cleaner and household staples like white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda is a brilliant, eco-friendly way to deep clean your machine without harsh chemicals.

1. Why MadeKind Bathroom Cleaner is the Secret Weapon

While it’s labeled for the bathroom, MadeKind Bathroom Cleaner is perfect for washing machines. Because it is slightly acidic, it is naturally effective at:

• Breaking down limescale: Neutralizing the hard water deposits that clog your machine's internals.

• Killing Mould and Mildew: The acidity pierces the cellular walls of mould spores, especially in the rubber door seal.

• Eco-Friendly Power: It cleans deeply without leaving behind synthetic fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin.

2. Pre-Treating the Rubber Seal (The Mould Magnet)

The grey rubber gasket (the seal) is the most common place for black mould to hide.

1. Spray MadeKind Bathroom Cleaner generously all over the rubber seal, ensuring you get into the folds.

2. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes. The acidic formulation will work to loosen grime and kill spores.

3. Wipe away with a damp cotton cloth. For stubborn spots, use an old toothbrush to scrub the debris away.

3. The Drum Deep Clean: Bicarbonate & Vinegar

To tackle the internal drum and the pipes you can’t see, we use a two-stage chemical reaction.

Step A: The Bicarbonate Scrub

Add half a cup of bicarbonate of soda directly into the stainless steel drum. Bicarbonate of soda is a mild alkali and a natural deodorizer. It helps "scrub" the surface of the drum as it spins.

Step B: The Vinegar Flush

Pour one cup of white wine vinegar into the detergent drawer (or directly into the drum).

Note: When the vinegar (acid) hits the bicarbonate (alkali), it creates a fizzing reaction (carbon dioxide gas) that helps physically lift biofilm and scale from the outer drum.

4. Running the Service Cycle

Once your ingredients are loaded:

• Temperature: Set your machine to its hottest cycle (usually 60°C or 90°C). Heat is essential for activating the vinegar and killing remaining bacteria.

• Duration: Run a full cycle. Do not use the "Quick Wash" setting, as the ingredients need time to circulate.

• The Drawer: While the cycle is running, remove the detergent drawer and spray it with MadeKind. Rinse it under warm water to remove any gooey fabric softener buildup.

5. Post-Clean Maintenance Tips

To keep your machine fresh for longer, follow these three simple rules:

1. Leave the door ajar: This allows the drum to dry out, preventing mould growth.

2. Dry the seal: After your last wash of the day, wipe the bottom of the rubber seal with a dry cloth.

3. Monthly Maintenance: Repeat this MadeKind and vinegar deep clean once every 4–6 weeks.

Ready to give your laundry a fresh start? Using plant-based acidity and pantry staples is the safest way to protect your machine and your skin. 

Shop MadeKind Bathroom Cleaner here