A TikToker has amazed cleaning enthusiasts with a unique method for freshening up the washing machine. The appliance is often put to the test, ensuring all our clothes and linen are thoroughly cleaned, but occasionally it requires a bit of cleaning itself.
Ida, known as @cleaningwithida, shared three cleaning hacks with her followers that you “need” to try. One of them involves using lemon and toothpaste to eliminate unpleasant odours from the washing machine.
Simply squeeze some toothpaste onto a halved lemon. Place it in the washing machine drum and start a hot cycle. The unusual combination works due to the citric acid in the lemon, which breaks down mineral deposits, while the abrasiveness of the toothpaste aids in scrubbing away dirt.
The hack can also help remove dirt, mould, and grime, as well as giving the machine a fresh scent. Experts from Hometalk also suggest adding an extra step by treating the rubber seal of the washing machine with baking soda and vinegar, reports the Express.
They said: “Address the rubber seal by pouring bicarbonate of soda and adding vinegar, creating a powerful fizzing reaction that tackles hidden dirt.”
You can also add extra toothpaste to the inside door. Bret Jackson, a professional cleaning expert at Letti and Co, also mentioned other benefits of adding lemon to our clothes.
He told Homes & Gardens: “Lemon juice is a natural disinfectant and will help to kill any bacteria that may be present on your clothing. It is a natural fabric softener and will help to keep your clothes looking and feeling their best.
“The fresh scent of lemon juice will leave your laundry smelling clean and fresh. It is also a natural bleaching agent, so it can help to brighten your laundry.”
Her laundry hack video has gone viral, racking up a huge 3.7 million views. One user, Amelia, questioned the safety of the method, asking in the comments: “Hey! Love this, does the lemon and toothpaste risk any damage to the machine at all or is it totally safe? Thank you.”
The cleaning influencer reassured: “It’s safe, just remove the seeds first.” Zels commented: “Oooh gonna try the lemon and toothpaste hack.”
For a deeper clean of the appliance, Ida advises opting for a longer wash cycle, but a quicker cycle is suitable for a refresh.