The Hidden Reason Your Laundry Smells Musty — And the Simple Kitchen Ingredient That Can Help Fix It

During the cycle, warm water combined with vinegar helps loosen buildup inside the machine. This process is often followed by an additional rinse cycle using plain water to ensure any remaining residue is flushed out. In some cleaning routines, baking soda is also used as a supplementary cleaning agent. It is sometimes added separately to help neutralize odors and assist in lifting light residue from the drum surface.

However, it is important to note that these substances should be used in moderation. While generally safe for household cleaning, excessive or overly frequent use is not necessary and does not replace regular maintenance practices recommended by manufacturers. Beyond the internal drum, attention should also be given to external and removable parts. The detergent drawer is one of the most frequently overlooked components, yet it often contains significant residue buildup.