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How can I properly clean mould from a detergent drawer?

37 replies

Justamumof2x · 27/06/2026 19:17

hi all,

ive had a new Samsung washing machine for a year ish now. Only reason why i splurged on a new one was because it was a ‘auto clean’ function for the detergent drawer.

now me thinking that’s great. No more mould… so so wrong.

it’s worse than my old machine.

I try to scrub it with a brush but there is only so much I can do with that.

can anyone recommend how to clean it properly to get rid of the black mould?

I have to say I only use water and a brush. I never use sprays because the detergent drawer is so tight I can’t properly fit my hand in there to then wipe it over and get rid of any residue and I don’t like the idea of it then being transferred onto clothes but maybe I’m being dramatic here.

any tips or advice would be fab thank you guys.

OP posts:
Allseeingallknowing · 28/06/2026 16:07

ACalmSpaniel · 28/06/2026 15:08

I can’t properly fit my hand in there to then wipe it over and get rid of any residue

You could wrap a damp cloth round something or hold one with tongs and wipe it that way. It's a fiddle but saves potentially hurting your hand.

You press down and it slides out- on most machines anyway!

redboxerclub · 28/06/2026 16:14

Are you taking the drawer out?

I use a bottle brush to clean where the drawer goes. It’s horrible I always forget to leave it open.

Dbank · 28/06/2026 16:24

You can usually remove the detergent draw, it may require the lifting of a catch etc, if in doubt RTFM.

Then give it a it clean with a toothbrush and some detergent. You could also leave it in warm water overnight to soak.

I have also notice on some of the better washing machines the underside of the tray is completely smooth so dirt tends not to adhere as much.

P.S. I wouldn't recommend putting the tray in the dishwasher.

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Boomer55 · 28/06/2026 16:28

Justamumof2x · 27/06/2026 19:17

hi all,

ive had a new Samsung washing machine for a year ish now. Only reason why i splurged on a new one was because it was a ‘auto clean’ function for the detergent drawer.

now me thinking that’s great. No more mould… so so wrong.

it’s worse than my old machine.

I try to scrub it with a brush but there is only so much I can do with that.

can anyone recommend how to clean it properly to get rid of the black mould?

I have to say I only use water and a brush. I never use sprays because the detergent drawer is so tight I can’t properly fit my hand in there to then wipe it over and get rid of any residue and I don’t like the idea of it then being transferred onto clothes but maybe I’m being dramatic here.

any tips or advice would be fab thank you guys.

Drawer out. Overnight soak in bleach.

Allseeingallknowing · 28/06/2026 17:03

redboxerclub · 28/06/2026 16:14

Are you taking the drawer out?

I use a bottle brush to clean where the drawer goes. It’s horrible I always forget to leave it open.

I leave mine shut, but always dry it after each wash. Never had a problem

Musicaltheatremum · 28/06/2026 17:14

We take ours out after each wash, dry it and leave it out overnight. Never had any problems. Never have to clean it

Justamumof2x · 29/06/2026 09:23

Hi guys sorry I don’t think I was clear enough. The drawer itself slides out and can clean it fine. I meant this area (in photo) where the drawer slides into. This is just a photo online if a random machine but you get the idea. Mine is really hard to clean and get rid of all mould. Plus the pipe that leads from this to the washing machine which transfers the detergent etc is covered in mould too.

How can I properly clean mould from a detergent drawer?
OP posts:
eurochick · 29/06/2026 09:54

I jet washed mine when I was doing the patio. That is the cleanest I have ever got it.

TinyBlueDent · 29/06/2026 10:05

Mine stopped getting gunky and mouldy after I stopped using fabric conditioner. I use laundry powder and the drawer doesn't need cleaning. I do usually empty the water out but that's just in case it might contribute to build up. I haven't had to use an old toothbrush on the drawer for years now.

LesSanglotsLonguesDesViolonsDAutomne · 29/06/2026 18:27

You need a hot wash (90 degrees) and some HG washing machine cleaner through that. I also blame fabric conditioner because it builds up a greasy film.

Allseeingallknowing · 29/06/2026 18:58

Justamumof2x · 29/06/2026 09:23

Hi guys sorry I don’t think I was clear enough. The drawer itself slides out and can clean it fine. I meant this area (in photo) where the drawer slides into. This is just a photo online if a random machine but you get the idea. Mine is really hard to clean and get rid of all mould. Plus the pipe that leads from this to the washing machine which transfers the detergent etc is covered in mould too.

Just get a non stick pan scrubber with some viakal or vinegar and detergent, and scrub it, using an old toothbrush for the grooves. It is a bit difficult to clean the roof of the cavity but persistence will pay off. Do it regularly to avoid build up, and use a washing machine cleaner on a high temperature occasionally.

CelticSilver · 29/06/2026 19:09

DollopOfFun · 28/06/2026 14:58

In this house, if it's not nailed down it goes through the dishwasher.

Poor dog

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