Cleaning the washing machine detergent drawer: how do you do it?

After every wash, there are often residues of detergent, fabric softener, and water left behind in the soap drawer. If you don't clean this drawer regularly, these residues build up. This leads to nasty buildup, mold, and even unpleasant odors in your washing machine.

A dirty soap drawer can also prevent the detergent from getting properly into the drum. That means your clothes won’t get as clean. By cleaning the drawer regularly, your washing machine stays fresh and clean. Everything works just like it should.

How often should you clean the soap dispenser?

Luckily, you don't have to clean your washing machine's soap drawer every week. Just make sure to clean your washing machine at least once a month. 

This helps keep it smelling fresh. It also makes sure it keeps working well.

Do you often use liquid detergent or fabric softener? Then it's even more important. These products build up faster, especially if you often wash at low temperatures. This can lead to mold, unpleasant odors, and clogs.

Step-by-step guide: how to clean your washing machine detergent drawer

1. Remove the detergent drawer

Carefully pull the tray out of the machine. There’s usually a release button near the fabric softener compartment. You’ll need to press this button to take it out.

2. Clean the tray

Rinse it under warm water. Use an old toothbrush to brush away soap residue, mold, and fabric softener. Got stubborn dirt? Let the tray soak for a bit in warm water with a splash of cleaning vinegar or dish soap.

3. Clean the opening in the machine

Take a look in the drawer where the tray normally slides in. This is where the connection between the soap tray and the drum is. Soap residue or even black mold often gets stuck in this channel.

Use an old toothbrush, bottle brush, or a cloth. Clean it with all-purpose cleaner or a bit of baking soda. Don’t forget that this part often gets skipped when cleaning the washing machine. It’s important to prevent clogs and bad smells.

4. Flush the supply (optional)

Want to really clean everything thoroughly? Then run an empty wash cycle at 90 degrees with a deep cleaning tablet. This rinses the pipes clean all the way to the drum. It also helps to get everything nice and clean on the inside.

5. Dry before putting it back

It's important to dry before putting the tray back. Use a clean cloth so no moisture is left behind. Then slide the tray back into the machine.

Care tips

• Leave the detergent drawer and the door open after every wash so they can dry properly. This helps prevent mold and moisture problems.

• It's better to use a dosing ball for liquid detergent or laundry detergent sheets directly into the drum. This keeps the drawer from getting dirty.

• Give the soap tray a good clean every month. This helps keep things smelling fresh and makes sure your washing machine works perfectly.

• Consider different ways to maintain it. Think about a hot wash cycle or using natural cleaners.

Clean your washing machine's soap drawer with these steps. That way, your laundry will come out fresher every time.

Your machine will last longer too. Bad odors don't stand a chance. Just a small effort makes a big difference in keeping your washing machine clean.