'I'm a cleaning expert and everyone is cleaning their washing machine wrong - here's how'

There's nothing worse than washing a load of laundry - only to realise it smells kind of funky.

Fusty clothes are the first-sign that your needs a wash. It might sound like a laughable oxymoron, but the drum and rubber seal often harbour bacteria and even mould due to their constantly-damp state. Leaving the appliance's door open after every wash can help dry the inside out and prevent this from occurring, but experts say you should still clean your washing machine once a month.

If you're tempted to reach straight for the overpriced washing machine salts you can pick up from the supermarket - don't. There's a much more effective way of freshening up your washing machine and making sure those hidden bits of grime are properly removed. Plus, it'll save you money in the long run.

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To get started, cleaning expert Jessica Petrino, an appliance expert and editorial director of AJ Madison, says white vinegar is the holy grail when it comes to cleaning your washing machine. Stir together a one-to-one ratio of distilled white vinegar and water into a spray bottle, then use the solution to wipe out the interior and the seals around the door.

"Remove debris from any filters or drains around the seal," . "For traditional models, take the agitator apart and soak in the sink with hot water, vinegar, and baking soda; for hybrid models, detach the impeller and soak in the hot water, vinegar, and baking soda solution."

For the final step, run a hot water cycle and pour in two cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser. After it's done, add half a up of baking soda to the drum and run for another hot cycle.

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If your washing machine still has that unpleasant scent lingering around, it's time to cut open a lemon and freshen it up. Cleaning ace and social media sensation Brunch with Babs swears the hack works every time and gets rid of that 'yucky mildew smell'.

Simply cut a lemon in half and cover the cut side with toothpaste - roughly a tablespoon. Now, chuck the lemon halves into your empty washer and run the washer on speed wash with very hot water. After the cycle is finished, you have a fresh smelling washer - and for very little cost, as you can pick up a single lemon for as little as 17p. Remember, keep your washing machine door open after every use and commit to a deep clean at least once a month.

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