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Basic Laundry Knowledge

Complete Removal of Washing Machine Grime: Everything About Drum Cleaning (Sodium Percarbonate vs. Cleaner)

Published: January 23, 2026
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🦠 Does Your Laundry Still Smell? A Complete Guide to Cleaning Washing Machine Drum Grime and Mold

Even after washing, you might notice a musty odor on your clothes, or find black residue or mold particles clinging to the laundry. This is because detergent residue, fabric lint, and moisture left inside the washing machine drum combine to form mold and grime. Failure to remove this build-up can reduce washing efficiency and even cause skin problems. We provide detailed cleaning methods to perfectly remove stubborn drum grime, categorized by front-load and top-load washer types.

🔑 The Core of Drum Cleaning: Combining High Heat and Oxygen Bleach

The grime and mold inside the washer drum are not removed by regular detergent. The key is to use hot water to loosen the mold and oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) to sanitize and bleach it.

🛁 2 Methods for Removing Stubborn Drum Grime

1. The Most Powerful Method: Using Sodium Percarbonate (Recommended)

  • Supplies: Sodium Percarbonate (Oxygen Bleach)
  • Front-Load Washer:
    • Method: Add 1 cup (approx. 150g) of sodium percarbonate to the detergent dispenser.
    • Setting: Select the 'Tub Clean Cycle' or a 'Sanitize/High Temp Wash Cycle' (minimum 60°C / 140°F or higher) and start the operation.
    • Tip: After about 10 minutes, once water has pooled, pause the cycle. Let it soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour before resuming the cycle for maximum effectiveness.
  • Top-Load Washer:
    • Method: Fill the drum with hot water (minimum 50°C / 122°F or higher). Add 500g to 1kg of sodium percarbonate and dissolve it completely.
    • Soak: Let it soak for 1 to 2 hours. (You will notice black residue floating on the water during this time.)
    • Operation: Run a standard wash cycle once to discharge the residue.

2. Using Commercial Drum Cleaner:

  • Advantage: Using a dedicated cleaner recommended by the washer manufacturer can reduce the risk of damaging internal washer components.
  • Method: Add the appropriate amount of cleaner according to the product instructions, and run the washer's 'Tub Clean Cycle' or 'Standard Wash Cycle'. (Do not put clothes in.)

📌 Post-Cleaning Management and Prevention Habits

  • Remove Residual Residue: Residue may remain inside the drum even after cleaning. You must run the rinse cycle 1–2 times more with clean water to completely remove all residues.
  • Leave the Door Open: After washing, always leave the washer door and detergent dispenser open to dry out internal moisture and prevent mold growth.
  • Regular Cleaning: Once a month, perform a drum cleaning to maintain an environment where mold finds it difficult to grow.