Beyond the Cycle: Comprehensive Washing Machine Drum Cleaning Guide

A washing machine is one of the hardest working appliances in any home, but even machines that clean need cleaning themselves. Over time, soap scum, limescale, and fabric residue can build up in the drum, gasket, and dispenser, leading to musty odours, reduced efficiency, and even stains on your laundry.

If you’ve ever pulled your clothes out and wondered why they don’t smell as fresh as they should, it’s probably time to deep clean your machine. Thankfully, it’s easy to do using non-toxic, plant-based cleaning products from Bio-D, safe for your clothes, your home, and our waterways.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean your washing machine drum thoroughly using Bio-D’s All Purpose Sanitiser, Limescale Remover, and Laundry Bleach, with a focus on sustainable habits and effective results.

Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Drum Matters

Even with regular use, washing machines are prone to internal grime. A combination of:

• Detergent residue
• Hard water limescale
• Body oils and fibres from clothes
• Mould and mildew in damp areas

…can make the inside of your machine less than hygienic.

Not only does this reduce your washing machine’s performance, but it can also transfer odours and bacteria onto your clean laundry. A regular cleaning routine can prevent:

• Foul smells
• Stains on clothing
• Blocked filters
• Mould growth
• Costly breakdowns

Signs Your Washing Machine Needs a Clean

Look out for these common indicators:

• A musty or sour smell coming from the drum
• Visible black spots around the rubber gasket
• Water not draining properly
• Clothes not smelling clean after a wash
• Soap suds left behind after cycles

If you spot any of these signs, it’s time for a deep clean.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the right tools and eco-friendly cleaning products:

• Bio-D Laundry Bleach – oxygen-based for brightening and sanitising
• Bio-D All Purpose Sanitiser – for wiping down gaskets and dispensers
• A soft cloth or microfibre cloth
• Old toothbrush for scrubbing
• Jug of hot water
• Optional: Spray bottle for easy application

To make your cleaning routine more sustainable, choose Bio-D’s refillable options, available in 5L bulk bottles to cut down on plastic waste.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Washing Machine Drum

1. Sanitise with Laundry Bleach

To neutralise bacteria, remove mildew, and brighten the internal drum:

• Add 1 tablespoon of Bio-D Laundry Bleach into the drum or detergent tray.

• Run a hot cycle with no clothes.

• Oxygen-based bleach is non-toxic, Fragrance Free, and safe for septic tanks.

This is the best option for deep-cleaning the drum.

The Laundry Bleach is also highly effective on the door seal, helping lift stains thanks to its TAED (Tetraacetylethylenediamine) content.

2. Clean the Gasket and Door Seal

These areas are prone to mould and grime, especially in front-loading machines:

• Spray Bio-D All Purpose Sanitiser generously around the rubber seal.
• Let it sit for 5 minutes.
• Scrub with an old toothbrush, paying attention to folds where water collects.
• Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

This sanitiser is fast drying, and suitable for food-contact surfaces, so it’s more than safe for your washing machine.

3. Scrub the Detergent Drawer

Residue and mould often collect in the dispenser tray:

• Remove the drawer if possible and soak in warm water.
• Spray with All Purpose Sanitiser and scrub any mould or build-up.
• Dry thoroughly before reinserting.

4. Clean the Filter and Drain

• Locate your machine’s drain filter (usually at the front, near the bottom).
• Place a tray or towel underneath, open the hatch, and remove the filter.
• Rinse under warm water and clean using All Purpose Sanitiser.
• Clear any trapped lint or debris before reinserting.

Natural vs Chemical Drum Cleaners

Feature	Bio-D Products	Conventional Cleaners
Ingredients	Plant-based, non-toxic	Harsh chemicals, synthetic dyes
Packaging	Recyclable & refillable	Often single-use plastic
Environmental Impact	Biodegradable, septic-safe	Potential aquatic toxicity

Using Bio-D helps protect your indoor air, your clothes, and the ecosystems beyond your home.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

• Leave the door ajar between washes to let the drum dry and discourage mould.
• Run a maintenance wash monthly using Bio-D Laundry Bleach.
• Wipe down seals and dispensers weekly with All Purpose Sanitiser.
• Don’t overload the machine, this helps prevent strain and dirt accumulation.

Cleaner Clothes Start with a Cleaner Machine

You trust your washing machine to keep your laundry fresh, but it needs a little attention to keep doing its job effectively. By switching to Bio-D’s sustainable, refillable cleaning solutions, you can keep your drum in pristine condition without exposing your household to harsh chemicals.

Our All Purpose Sanitiser, and Laundry Bleach provide a powerful yet gentle cleaning trio. Available in refill-friendly sizes, they’re as kind to your machine as they are to the planet.