Is it just me or isn’t it quite ironic that you have to clean a machine that’s made for cleaning? Well, yep, it’s vital to maintain the cleanliness of your washing machine to: 1) clean your clothes properly, and 2) preserve its cleaning life.

So, just how can you banish that awful smell and disgusting mould? Let’s find out:

• Manual instructions: Be on the safe side and read the manual for instructions on how to clean your washing machine, as some manufacturers may not allow you to use products or cleansers in your machine.

• Maintenance wash: In more simpler terms, clean the drum! Let your machine self clean by putting it through a hot temperature cycle (without clothes, of course) at least once a month, with a cup of vinegar thrown into the drum to help it sanitise.

• Let it breathe: Leave the door of the washing machine open every so often to let the air circulate in the drum and prevent bacteria from growing. I would also recommend you do the same for the detergent drawer- you can never be too careful when it comes to cleanliness.

• Wash out the detergent drawer: Simply remove the detergent drawer and give it a good sponge clean! Scrub away any detergent residue that has been built up. Give it a thorough rinse and let it dry before putting back into the machine.

• Wipe the rubber: Give the rubber door seal a good clean with a damp cloth on a regular basis, being sure to completely clean out any hidden residue.

• Clean the filter: The filter is the one that collects debris in order to protect the washing machine pump from blocking. If that doesn’t sound germ ridden to you, then I don’t know what does. So, what must you do? Empty it regularly to remove the dirt that has been gathered. The filter can be found at the bottom corner of the washing machine behind the removable plate/tab.

Oh and one more thing, you can leave your laundry to Laundryheap whilst you clean your washing machine.