Cleaning star Mrs Hinch, whose real name is Sophie Hinchliffe, garnered popularity after sharing her cleaning tips and recommendations on social media and TV. The cleaning enthusiast has managed to gain over 4.1 million followers on Instagram. Now, fans of hers have created their own social media groups dedicated to cleaning and tidying tips.
Jenny Saunders added: “I take the drawer out every evening and leave it out this way you let the inside air and never get any black mould, it stays super clean. I put on a hot wash once a month and chuck some Calgon in the machine. Never had a problem. I wipe the inside of the drawer when I take it out!”
However, others stressed there is no need for Calgon.
Cathy Rowlands wrote: “We have really hard water – the limescale is really bad, I’ve never used Calgon. My hubby has taken our washing machines apart a few times over the years – and there has been no limescale inside at all.”
Nikki Neill-Gordon, whose father is a washing machine engineer, said: “Always leave the door open – always when not in use. There is no need to cleaners/Calgon/or soda crystals.”
Instead, Nikki recommended: “Use wash powder and not liquid tabs or liquid as it’s these that clog up machines over time and cause them to smell, become gunky and slimy in the pipes. Good old fashioned wash powder use is key.”
She added: “Keep your detergent drawers clean and leave open to air between washes.”
Another Mrs Hinch fan recommended using dishwasher tablets. Julia Duffy said: “I use a couple of dishwasher tabs once a month on an empty 60 cycle – works wonders!”
Charlotte Jeffery offered a natural solution, saying: “After every time I use my machine, I fold one piece of kitchen roll about four times and tuck it inside the bottom at the front of the rubber seal. I push the door but don’t close it. I never have black gunge inside the seal!”
Simmone Galler also uses a natural method to clean her machine. She said: “Cup of white vinegar in every wash, no need for Calgon.”
Natalie Jane advised: “Monthly empty 90 wash with soda crystals and lemon juice in the drum, then fill up the softer compartment with some distilled white vinegar.
“Take out the drawer and give a good clean inside and steep the drawer. Ensure it’s dry before putting it back in. Clean the filter at the front often. Also, I’ve found using powder directly in the drum for my washes has helped with the maintenance. I don’t use softener but will occasionally use scent boosters for extra fragrance.”
Georgia Beth Clark added: “I use soda crystals in every wash and then once a week put half a bag in the drum and put on a 90 wash.”
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