For the past eight years, my washing machine has been a reliable workhorse, tirelessly spinning load after load of laundry without much fuss. But recently, I noticed an unpleasant odor that seemed to cling to my clothes even after they had been washed. It was a musty, sour smell that was impossible to ignore.
Determined to find a solution, I researched various cleaning methods and stumbled upon an unconventional hack: using denture tablets to clean a washing machine. Intrigued by the simplicity and affordability of this method, I decided to give it a try. Here’s what happened when I dropped four denture tablets into my washing machine for the first time in eight years.
1. The Smell I Couldn’t Ignore After 8 Years
The smell was subtle at first, more of a faint whiff than a full-on assault on the senses. But as time went on, it grew more persistent. I tried airing out the machine, leaving the door open between uses, but nothing seemed to help. It wasn’t just the machine; the scent had started to cling to my freshly laundered clothes, making them smell less than fresh.
After some investigation, I realized the smell was likely due to a buildup of detergent, fabric softener, and lint in the machine, particularly around the rubber seal and in the detergent drawer. Over the years, the accumulation of these residues had created a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which was now manifesting as the unpleasant odor I couldn’t ignore.
2. Why I Reached For Denture Tablets Instead Of A Machine Cleaner
Traditional washing machine cleaners are readily available and designed specifically for the task, but I was curious about the alternative method I’d read about: using denture tablets. These tablets are designed to clean dentures, which are made of materials similar to those found in a washing machine’s drum and seals.
Denture tablets are also much cheaper than dedicated machine cleaners, costing only a few cents per tablet. Plus, they are readily available at most pharmacies and supermarkets. The idea of using something so simple and inexpensive to combat a problem that had been plaguing me for months was appealing, and I decided to give it a shot.
3. Dropping Four Tablets In: The Exact Method I Used
I started by purchasing a box of denture tablets from my local pharmacy. The instructions I found online recommended using two to four tablets, so I decided to go with four, hoping for maximum effectiveness.
I placed the tablets directly into the drum of the washing machine, ensuring they were spread out evenly. Then, I set the machine to the hottest and longest cycle available, which in my case was a 90°C (194°F) cotton cycle that lasted for about two hours. I made sure the machine was empty of clothes and any detergent or fabric softener, as I wanted the tablets to work their magic without interference.
4. What Happened Inside The Drum During The First Wash Cycle
As the cycle began, I could hear the familiar sound of water filling the drum, followed by the gentle fizzing of the denture tablets dissolving. The smell of minty freshness started to waft through the air, a stark contrast to the musty odor I’d been dealing with.
Throughout the cycle, I peeked through the door and noticed a light foaming action inside the drum. The water was slightly cloudy, indicating that the tablets were breaking down residues and lifting grime from the surfaces they contacted. The fizzing continued intermittently, suggesting that the active ingredients in the tablets were still working hard to clean the machine.
5. The Immediate Changes In Smell And Appearance
Once the cycle completed, I cautiously opened the washing machine door, half expecting the smell to still be lingering. To my surprise, the musty odor had been replaced with a light, fresh scent reminiscent of the tablets’ minty fragrance.
The drum itself looked shinier, with a noticeable reduction in the dull film that had coated the stainless steel. Even the rubber seal appeared cleaner, with less gunk visible in the creases. The immediate changes were promising, and I was hopeful that this simple hack had worked wonders.
6. What I Found In The Detergent Drawer, Seal, And Filter Afterwards
Curious to see the extent of the cleaning, I inspected the detergent drawer, the rubber seal, and the filter. The detergent drawer was notably cleaner, with most of the old detergent residue gone. There were still some stubborn spots, but they were significantly reduced.
The rubber seal, which had been a breeding ground for mold, looked refreshed. I ran a cloth along the inside and found much less grime than before. The filter, often overlooked, had caught some loose debris, which I cleaned out to maintain optimal machine performance.
7. Did It Actually Clean The Gunk You Can’t See?
Although the visible parts of the machine looked cleaner, I couldn’t be sure about the internal components. However, given the improved smell and appearance, I had reason to believe that the denture tablets had also managed to tackle some of the hidden grime.
It’s worth noting that regular maintenance is essential for keeping these internal components clean. While the denture tablets seemed to have made a difference, a thorough professional cleaning might still be necessary to ensure that every part of the machine is in top condition.
8. How Denture Tablets Compare To Dedicated Washing Machine Cleaners
Denture tablets offer an affordable and accessible alternative to dedicated machine cleaners. While they may not contain the specific enzymes and chemicals found in some commercial products, their effervescent action and ingredients effectively break down residues and odors.
However, dedicated cleaners are formulated to tackle specific washing machine issues, such as lime scale and hard water deposits, which denture tablets may not fully address. For regular maintenance, denture tablets are a great option, but for deep cleaning, a machine cleaner might be more effective
9. Expert Opinions: Is This Hack Safe For Your Machine?
I consulted with appliance experts to get their take on this unconventional cleaning method. Most agreed that using denture tablets occasionally is unlikely to harm the machine, as they are designed to be gentle on materials similar to those in a washing machine.
Experts did caution, however, that relying solely on denture tablets might not address all maintenance needs. They recommended alternating with a dedicated machine cleaner to ensure comprehensive care, especially in areas with hard water or frequent use.
10. Would I Do The Denture Tablet Trick Again?
Based on my experience, I would definitely consider using denture tablets again for routine maintenance. The ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and immediate results make it a convenient option for keeping my washing machine fresh.
However, I might also incorporate a dedicated washing machine cleaner into my routine to ensure a thorough clean, especially if I notice any persistent issues. Overall, the denture tablet trick is a practical addition to my cleaning arsenal, and I’m glad I took the plunge to try something new.
