‘Hidden’ reason her clothes keep smelling musty – and how to stop it

One woman was so thankful to finally find the reason her clothes were smelling musty, no matter how many times she cleaned them – and it was actually all down the the washing machine itself.

Many of us would be lost without a washing machine. It’s one of the most-used appliances in the home, and is a life saver when it comes to cleaning clothes.

But many aren’t aware that while the washing machine cleans our clothes for us with minimum effort, we also need to clean the appliance regularly to make sure it runs efficiently. In fact, taking to cleaning brand Beldray’s TikTok account, the woman uploaded a clip of herself cleaning the inside of her washing machine – including the seal and filter.

It also had the text: “She doesn’t know it yet, but the reason her clothes have been smelling musty is the hidden grime inside her washing machine.”

The video also had the caption: “Here’s why your clothes may be smelling damp. Hidden grime in your washing machine’s seal and filter can make your clothes smell musty. Over time, this build-up creates the perfect environment for mould to grow inside the machine.”

How to clean washing machine seal

In a separate video, Beldray shared exactlty how to clean the washing machine seal. First, they recommended using a brush to get into the crevices of the washing machine seal. This removes “hidden mould and dirt efficiently”.

Then, spray the seal. They explained: “Spray a miz of water and white vinegar or your favourite antibacterial cleaner into the washing machine to loosen dirt, grime and hidden mould’. Now “scrub thoroughly”. Lastly, “wipe it down” for a “spotless and fresh finish. Beldray recommends repeating this routine regularly to “ensure your washing machine is runnign smoothly and smelling fresh”.

How to clean washing machine filter

Some people aren’t even aware that their washing machine has a filter that needs cleaning, as it’s usually in a separate compartment.

A property expert from Select London recently took to TikTok to enlighten users on how to clean their washers. The expert begins by placing a towel under the machine and then proceeds to open a small hatch at the bottom front.

Inside lies the filter compartment, which must be opened and cleared out. “As soon as I open this you’re going to see the water gushing out. […] Please be warned, it will stink because you’ve got all the dirt that’s been collecting underneath and as you can see right now, as my example, we’ve got hair bands, all kinds of other stuff that you’ll find in there.”

Initially, she sanitises the drainage area with antibacterial wipes. Next, she transfers the filter to the sink and meticulously cleans it using washing up liquid, followed by a thorough rinse before refitting it into place.