Your washing machine will be rid of 'extreme dirt buildup' with 1 ingredient - not vinegar

Cleaning your washing machine might be a job that easily goes overlooked - but it shouldn't. If your washing machine has started to smell musty or looks grimy around the drum and rubber seal, you're not alone. Over time, detergent residue, limescale, and fabric softener can create a stubborn layer of buildup that could impact the quality of its cleaning.

While many people swear by white vinegar as a natural cleaner, there's another powerful ingredient that's even better for tackling extreme dirt and grime. The Eco Hub says citric acid is the perfect natural cleaning for your machine.

The lifestyle website says: "If the first thing that pops into your mind when you read this compound is 'lemons!' you're right!

"Citric acid comes from acidic fruits like lemons and oranges, and its commercial powder form is much stronger than vinegar - perfect for removing extreme dirt buildup, limescale, and just about any kind of sticky ickies like grease, food particles, or slimy residues."

Citric acid is found in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. It's an excellent cleaner and descaler that cuts through mineral deposits, soap scum, and mould without leaving behind harsh chemical residues.

It's particularly effective at dissolving limescale, something vinegar often struggles to remove completely, making it ideal for washing machines in hard water areas.

Home Gear Geek has shared its top tips for using lemons to clean your machine. It says: "After the initial rinse cycle, pour one cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice and one cup of white vinegar into the washing machine drum.

"The acid in the lemon juice will help break down tough stains and mineral deposits, while the vinegar will dissolve detergent residues and deodorize the washer."

For best results, you should repeat this deep-clean once every two to three months, depending on how frequently you use your washer.