The ingenious trick for cleaning a washing machine’s detergent drawer is to clean not only the removable drawer, but also the hidden drawer cavity and water channels where detergent slime, fabric softener residue, and mould often collect. A clean drawer helps detergent flow properly and prevents bad smells.
What you need
- Old toothbrush or small cleaning brush
- Bowl or sink of warm water
- Dish soap
- White vinegar (optional)
- Baking soda (optional)
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- A toothpick/cotton bud for tiny holes
Step-by-step deep cleaning method
1. Remove the detergent drawer
- Pull the drawer out as far as it goes.
- Look for a small release tab, button, or lever (usually in the fabric softener section).
- Press it and slide the drawer completely out.
2. Soak away the hardened detergent
- Put the drawer in warm water for 15–30 minutes.
- Add a few drops of dish soap.
- Warm water softens old detergent and fabric-softener buildup, making it easier to scrub.
3. Use the “fizzing trick” for stubborn residue
This is the popular cleaning trick:
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of baking soda into the dirty drawer area.
- Spray or pour a small amount of white vinegar over it.
- Let it fizz for a few minutes.
- Scrub with a toothbrush.
The bubbling action can help loosen odours and residue.
4. Clean the hidden drawer slot (the part people miss)
Many people clean only the drawer, but the inside compartment can hold grime.
- Dip a toothbrush in warm soapy water.
- Scrub the walls, corners, and water spray openings inside the slot.
- Use a cotton bud or toothpick for narrow channels.
- Wipe everything with a damp cloth.
5. Rinse and dry
- Rinse the drawer under running water until no cleaner remains.
- Dry it completely.
- Slide it back into place.
Extra tricks to prevent buildup
- Leave the detergent drawer slightly open after washing so moisture can escape.
- Do not use more detergent than recommended; excess detergent often creates sticky residue.
- Clean the drawer every 3–4 weeks if you wash frequently.
- Occasionally run an empty hot maintenance wash according to your machine’s instructions.
Important: Do not mix vinegar with bleach. The combination can create dangerous fumes.