The washing machine is a household essential, but over time, its detergent drawer can become a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and detergent buildup. A dirty drawer not only affects the efficiency of your machine but can also lead to unpleasant odors and even affect the cleanliness of your clothes.
Luckily, I discovered a brilliant and easy method to clean the washing machine drawer effortlessly—it’s now as good as new in no time! Here’s how you can do it too.
Why Does the Washing Machine Drawer Get Dirty?
Before diving into the cleaning method, it’s important to understand why the detergent drawer accumulates dirt:
✅ Detergent and fabric softener residue – These can stick to the sides of the drawer, creating a slimy buildup over time.
✅ Moisture accumulation – The damp environment inside the drawer is ideal for mold and mildew to grow.
✅ Poor ventilation – When the drawer is always closed, it retains moisture, accelerating mold formation.
✅ Hard water deposits – If you have hard water, mineral buildup can clog the drawer and prevent proper detergent flow.
Now, let’s get to the cleaning method that will instantly remove mold, grime, and buildup, making your washing machine drawer look brand new again!
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Washing Machine Drawer
🛠️ What You’ll Need:
White vinegar
✔️ Baking soda
✔️ An old toothbrush or sponge
✔️ Warm water
✔️ A microfiber cloth
✔️ A bowl or sink
✔️ A few drops of dish soap
🚿 Step 1: Remove the Drawer from the Washing Machine
Most washing machines have a removable detergent drawer. To take it out:
- Pull the drawer all the way out.
- Look for a release button or tab in the middle (usually blue or gray) and press it while pulling gently.
💡 Tip: If you’re unsure how to remove it, check your washing machine’s manual.
🫧 Step 2: Soak the Drawer in a Cleaning Solution
Fill a sink or a large bowl with warm water and add:
✔️ One cup of white vinegar (to dissolve residue and kill mold).
✔️ A tablespoon of baking soda (to help scrub away grime).
✔️ A few drops of dish soap (for extra grease-cutting power).
Let the drawer soak for 15–30 minutes to loosen any buildup.
🪥 Step 3: Scrub Away Dirt and Mold
After soaking, take an old toothbrush or sponge and gently scrub:
- The compartments where detergent and fabric softener go.
- Any small openings or crevices where mold tends to hide.
- The bottom and sides to remove all residue.
💡 Tip: For stubborn stains, sprinkle a little baking soda directly on the drawer and scrub.
🌀 Step 4: Clean the Drawer Compartment Inside the Machine
While the drawer is soaking, don’t forget to clean the inside of the compartment in the washing machine.
- Dampen a cloth with a mixture of vinegar and warm water and wipe away any residue.
- Use a toothbrush to scrub hard-to-reach areas, especially the top corners where mold often hides.
- Wipe everything dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent moisture buildup.
💦 Step 5: Rinse and Dry Everything Thoroughly
- Rinse the detergent drawer under clean, warm water.
- Wipe it dry with a soft cloth or let it air dry completely.
- Once fully dry, slide it back into the washing machine.
✅ Important: Make sure everything is dry before reinserting the drawer to prevent future mold growth.
How to Prevent Future Buildup and Mold
Now that your washing machine drawer is sparkling clean, here’s how to keep it that way:
✔️ Leave the drawer slightly open after each wash to let it dry properly.
✔️ Clean the drawer every 2–4 weeks to prevent buildup.
✔️ Use liquid detergent moderately – too much can cause excess residue.
✔️ Run a vinegar rinse cycle once a month (add 1 cup of white vinegar to the detergent compartment and run an empty wash at high temperature).
✔️ Check for drainage blockages inside the drawer compartment.
Final Thoughts
With this simple yet effective method, your washing machine drawer will look as good as new in no time! No more mold, bad odors, or detergent buildup—just a fresh, clean washing machine ready to keep your laundry spotless.
Try this method today, and let me know how it worked for you!
