99p household staple banishes nasty smells from washing machines in one wash

Now, fans of cleaning sensation Mrs Hinch, whose full name is Sophie Hinchliffe, have shared their simple solution for removing unpleasant smells from washing machines.

The cleaning influencer has more than 4.6 million followers on Instagram and often shares her tips online.

Fans of hers have taken to social media in recent years to share their own hacks for solving common household problems.

On one such group, Facebook user Amy Bennett posted: “Last week, my washing machine suddenly started to smell a bit ‘earthy’, like potatoes or vegetables.

“Struggling to leave the door open to air it out as it’s making my home stink.

“Has anyone had this particular smell and been able to get rid of it? I’m working my way through all of the threads and trying everyone’s recommendations!”

The post was inundated with responses but the most suggested method was to use white vinegar.

Kathleennancy Gallagher said: “Put a whole pack of soda crystals down the outlet pipe followed by a kettle of boiling water.

“Also, half a pack in the drum with a mug of white vinegar and do the hottest wash in an empty machine. Works for me.”

Lynn Dawson Mcgrath replied: “A full bottle of white vinegar in with a hot wash.”

Celia Pope commented: “Run it on empty with a large cup of white vinegar.

“Mine was a bit smelly and I was leaving the door open. Then I read that you could use vinegar as a fabric conditioner and I’ve had no problems since.”

Dri-Pak Pure White Vinegar costs £2 from Ocado and Wilko Original White Vinegar costs £1.25.

Mireco White Vinegar Lime Power costs £1.19 and Stardrops white vinegar spray costs 99p from Asda.

Other suggestions from Mrs Hinch fans included using baking soda, a dishwasher tablet, Dettol washing machine cleaner and soda crystals.

Ruby Taylor commented: “Every wash I use bicarbonate of soda and have done for years.”

Sheila Crow replied: “Run it empty on its hottest wash with just a dishwasher tablet/capsule in it.”

Christine Ferguson suggested: “Dettol washing machine cleaner.”

Lisa James posted: “Run on hot with soda crystals, NOT a dishwasher tablet. I’ve heard it can damage the machine.”