Put a handful of rice in your washing machine and see the difference!

If you notice an unpleasant smell every time you open your washing machine, you are not alone. Moisture and detergent residue that build up inside the machine can lead to mold and prevent your clothes from smelling truly fresh. However, you don't have to spend a lot of money on expensive cleaning products to tackle this problem. A simple and inexpensive natural method often used by French homemakers has attracted attention for its practicality and affordability.

The method is extremely simple. All you need is a small cloth bag and a handful of uncooked rice. Put the rice into the bag, tie it tightly, and place it inside the washing machine drum. Do not start the machine. Simply leave the bag of rice inside the drum for several hours, or even for the entire day when you are not planning to do laundry.

Rice naturally has the ability to absorb moisture, so it can help reduce excess humidity and unpleasant odors inside the washing machine.

Another Natural Method to Help Eliminate Bad Odors

The rice method may help with excess moisture and surface odors, but washing machines that have not been cleaned for a long time may require a deeper cleaning.

Another commonly suggested household solution is a combination of vinegar and a high-temperature cycle. Add an appropriate amount of vinegar to the detergent compartment and run the washing machine empty at a high temperature, such as 90°C. This can help remove detergent residue, limescale and buildup inside the machine.

It is also important to leave the washing machine door and detergent drawer open for a while after each wash. Proper ventilation helps reduce moisture buildup and can prevent unpleasant odors from developing.