Domakihub How to Clean a Washing Machine Drawer Properly
Remove mould, detergent build-up and bad smells in under 20 minutes.
Reviewed by Domakihub cleaning pros · 2026-06-23 · 4 min read
The detergent drawer is one of the most neglected corners of a washing machine, yet it is the first place mould and residue take hold. The video above shows the removal and cleaning process clearly; this article breaks it into five repeatable steps you can follow whether you manage a family home, a holiday rental, or a hotel laundry room in Greece. Keep the drawer clean and your machine will smell fresh, rinse clothes properly, and last considerably longer.
Why the Drawer Gets Dirty So Fast
Liquid and powder detergents both leave behind a film each time the machine runs. Water that sits in the compartments after the cycle encourages mould spores — especially in humid coastal climates common across the Greek islands and mainland coasts. Over weeks, that film hardens into a chalky or black crust that can block the jets and prevent detergent from reaching the drum at the right moment.
Fabric softener is the worst offender. It is viscous, sticky, and designed to cling to fibres — which means it clings equally well to plastic walls. A monthly clean of the drawer prevents the kind of deep-set mould that requires harsh chemical stripping.
What You Will Need
You do not need specialist products. White vinegar or a mild bicarbonate-of-soda paste will dissolve most residue. A soft-bristle brush — an old toothbrush is perfect — reaches the jets inside the housing. Have a basin of warm water ready, a microfibre cloth, and a few minutes of uninterrupted time. For a heavily soiled drawer, a short soak in warm water with a splash of washing-up liquid is all that is needed before scrubbing.
How to Clean the Drawer: Step by Step
- 1
Remove the drawer completely
Open the drawer fully and look for a release tab or button — usually located in the fabric softener compartment, marked with a small arrow or padlock symbol. Press it down while pulling the drawer toward you. It should slide free. If it resists, never force it; check your machine's manual for the exact release mechanism for your model.
- 2
Soak in warm water
Place the drawer in a basin of warm water mixed with a small amount of washing-up liquid or a cup of white vinegar. Leave it for 10–15 minutes. The soak softens hardened detergent residue and loosens mould without any scrubbing effort. For very stubborn black mould, a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda added to the soak will boost the effect.
- 3
Scrub all compartments and the siphon cap
Use a soft brush to scrub each compartment, paying close attention to corners and undersides. Remove the small siphon cap from the softener compartment — it usually lifts straight out — and clean it separately. Rinse everything thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear and no soap film remains.
- 4
Clean the drawer housing in the machine
This is the cavity left behind once the drawer is removed. Shine a torch inside and you will almost certainly find mould on the roof of the compartment and around the water jets. Spray with a diluted white vinegar solution or a bathroom mould spray, leave for two minutes, then wipe thoroughly with a microfibre cloth. Use the toothbrush to dislodge residue from the jet holes.
- 5
Dry and refit, then run a maintenance cycle
Dry the drawer with a clean cloth before sliding it back in until it clicks. After refitting, run a 60 °C or 90 °C empty cycle — or your machine's dedicated drum-clean programme if it has one — to flush any remaining residue from the housing and the pipes. Leave the drawer slightly open after every wash going forward so moisture can escape and mould cannot take hold.
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FAQ
- How often should I clean the washing machine drawer?
- Once a month is the standard recommendation for a household machine. For holiday rentals or hotel laundry rooms that see daily heavy use, a fortnightly clean is better. If you notice a musty smell or see visible residue before the month is up, clean it immediately rather than waiting.
- Can I put the detergent drawer in the dishwasher?
- Many plastic drawers can handle a dishwasher cycle on a low-temperature programme, but check your machine's manual first. The heat from a 70 °C dishwasher cycle can warp thinner plastic components on some brands. Hand-washing in a basin is always safe and takes only a few minutes.
- What causes black mould in the drawer and is it harmful?
- Black mould in the drawer is typically Cladosporium or Aspergillus — common household moulds that thrive where moisture, warmth, and organic residue (detergent) meet. For most healthy adults the risk is low, but mould spores can irritate airways and should be removed. Regular cleaning and leaving the drawer ajar between washes are the most effective prevention measures.