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Maintenance

How and when to run a drum clean cycle

A monthly hot cycle clears detergent residue and the biofilm that causes odours.

1 min readUpdated 14 October 2026
How and when to run a drum clean cycle
Photo: Oli Woodman / Unsplash

Low-temperature washes and modern detergents leave a film of residue inside the drum and pipes. Over time it harbours bacteria and produces a musty smell. A regular hot clean cycle removes it.

Steps

  1. Empty the drum completely and wipe the seal.
  2. Select the drum clean or tub clean programme if your machine has one. Otherwise choose the hottest cotton programme, usually 90 degrees C, or 60 degrees C if the manual says so.
  3. Add a washing machine cleaner to the drum or the drawer according to its instructions, or use a small amount of detergent.
  4. Run the cycle with nothing else inside.
  5. Afterwards, wipe the seal and leave the door and drawer open to dry.

How often

Every one to two months. If your machine shows a reminder on the display, follow it. In hard water areas, use a product that also deals with limescale.

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