Stop your washing machine smelling with 1 compartment you're forgetting to clean

The washing machine is undoubtedly one of the most frequently used appliances in any household. Whilst we depend on them constantly to maintain fresh clothing, it's crucial to acknowledge that they accumulate grime from detergent residue, dirt, fabric softener build-up and mould because of their regular use.

Whilst you may routinely clean your washing machine, if your appliance or garments continue to emit unpleasant odours, the culprit could be a commonly overlooked component. Online content creator Fraz, who runs @fixitwithfraz and frequently posts DIY solutions and tips, has recently educated his 12.9k TikTok audience.

In his video, he revealed: "If you still have a smelly washing machine that you just can't sort out even though you've run multiple hot washes, multiple cleaners through it, you might be this one step away from making it so much better."

Fraz pointed out that water flows into the machine via the drawer, typically positioned in the upper left area, where washing powder or liquid is added. The DIY specialist explained that a pipe transports the water from this drawer, or dispenser, to the drum, where it undergoes heating.

He continued: "The water that runs through that pipe is never heated, it's always cold, and bits of detergent can get left behind in that pipe and get really, really smelly."

To remedy this issue, Fraz suggests boiling your kettle and administering a "good flush through". Fraz advised: "Just open the drawer, and just pour it through the various sections. Give it all a good swish, and that boiling water will run through that pipe and clear out loads of that detergent. You'll be amazed how many times this has done the trick. It just makes it smell so much fresher."

You might need to repeat this process several times to ensure all the residue and detergent is thoroughly flushed from the pipes. However, bear in mind you'll now have "a pile of water in the drum".

To tackle this, simply put your washing machine on a drain wash or draining spin.

Eager commenters couldn't wait to give this method a go. One individual remarked: "This is absolutely the ONLY thing I haven't tried yet. I just did it, then put a dishwasher tablet in the drum and did another 90 degrees programme without centrifuge.. hope this will finally get the awful smell out of the bathroom. You get a follow."

Another chimed in: "What a fantastic suggestion," while another simply stated: "Fab idea! ! ! Will definitely try this! Thank you."