The washing machine is one of the most hardworking appliances in every household. It saves time and effort daily, yet few people realize how quickly it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and grime. Over time, soap residue, dust, and body oils from clothes accumulate inside the drum and hidden crevices, creating foul odors and even shortening the life of your machine.

But don’t worry — with a simple bowl of salt, you can restore your washing machine to its original sparkle! This natural, inexpensive cleaning trick has been used by many homeowners and delivers surprisingly powerful results.

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Clean Your Washing Machine with Salt

After long-term use, your washing machine inevitably collects bacteria and dirt from the clothes it washes. Even if clothes look clean, they can still carry invisible microbes if your washer itself is contaminated.

To clean it thoroughly, simply dissolve a bowl of salt in hot water, then add a small amount of laundry detergent. Stir until it becomes foamy, and pour the mixture directly into the drum of your washing machine.

Next, fill the washer with hot water and let it soak for about 30 minutes. Then start a full wash cycle — the combination of heat, salt, and detergent will help loosen and flush out built-up grime and mildew from the drum walls. When the cycle finishes, you’ll see the dirty water drain away, leaving your machine fresh and odor-free.

Salt has natural antibacterial and disinfecting properties. It effectively kills germs while being gentle on metal and plastic parts, making it an ideal cleaning solution for regular maintenance.

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Alternative: Use Baking Soda Instead of Table Salt

If you prefer an even stronger cleaning agent, swap regular salt for baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). Commonly used in cooking, baking soda is also a powerful natural cleaner. It neutralizes odors, dissolves grease, and removes mineral buildup effectively.

To use it, mix baking soda with a little warm water to form a thick paste. Dip a damp cloth or sponge into the paste and wipe the inside surfaces of the washer, including the rubber gasket and lid area — where mold often hides. The gentle abrasiveness of baking soda will lift stains and grime without scratching.

Because baking soda is mildly alkaline, it naturally sanitizes without harsh chemicals — perfect for homes with children or sensitive skin.

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Other Effective Methods to Deep Clean Your Washing Machine

1. Use Hot Water and Bleach

Most modern washing machines (both top-load and front-load) have a self-clean or drum-clean cycle. If yours doesn’t, select the hottest wash setting and the longest cycle available.

Add a small amount of household bleach into the drum to kill bacteria and dissolve residue faster. Let the machine run empty — never add clothes during this process, as bleach and loosened dirt could damage or stain fabric.

After cleaning, run another rinse cycle with plain water to remove any remaining bleach odor.

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2. Use a Disinfectant Spray

For extra protection, you can also spray a gentle disinfectant inside the drum after cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe all surfaces, paying special attention to the rubber seal, filter cover, and ventilation holes — these are common spots for mold and lint buildup.

If possible, use a small handheld vacuum or air blower to remove dust and debris from vents and corners that are hard to reach. Keeping these areas clean will not only improve hygiene but also help your washer run more efficiently.

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3. Combine White Vinegar and Baking Soda

This is one of the most popular natural cleaning combinations — safe, effective, and inexpensive.

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

Run a normal wash to let the mixture dissolve fully and circulate through the machine. The mild acid in vinegar breaks down mineral deposits and soap scum, while baking soda deodorizes and removes mold.

Let the machine soak for 30 to 60 minutes before draining the water. Once the cycle is complete, wipe the drum dry with a clean towel — this prevents new mold from forming.

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Pro Tips for Keeping Your Washer Fresh Longer

• Leave the door open after each wash to allow air circulation and prevent mold growth.

• Clean the detergent drawer and filter every two weeks — these are hotspots for buildup.

• Avoid overusing detergent, as excess soap can trap dirt and cause residue.

• Add a monthly natural cleaning cycle with salt, vinegar, or baking soda to maintain peak performance.

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Final Thoughts

Keeping your washing machine clean doesn’t require expensive cleaners or professional service. With just a bowl of salt — or a few pantry staples like vinegar and baking soda — you can restore hygiene, eliminate odors, and make your clothes smell fresher than ever.

A well-maintained washing machine not only protects your family’s health but also helps your appliance last for years. So next time you finish laundry, take a few extra minutes to care for your washer — it’s a small effort that makes a big difference. 🌿🧺