My washing machine stank but a three-ingredient combo got rid of the nasty smell immediately

A mother has revealed her three-step solution to banish foul odours from washing machines for good - and all products can be found on your local high street.

A foul-smelling washing machine is a daily frustration, tarnishing the freshness of freshly laundered clothes and leaving homeowners scratching their heads for effective solutions.

But one resourceful mother, swears by a simple solution to banish foul smells once and for all. 

Taking to the Mrs Hinch's Cleaning group, she explained: 'My son is a landscape gardener and got petrol from a lawn mower all over his jacket and put it in my washer.

She added: 'For two days, I haven't been able to use it because of the strong petrol smell.'

The Facebook user attempted to use various products and methods to get rid of the unappealing scent, including multiple hot washes, white vinegar and dishwasher tablets - but nothing appeared to work.

She said: 'I tested it out with old towels and the smell transfers. 

'I have run about 10 empty washes, mostly hot, some cool and used bicarbonate of soda, soda crystals, dishwasher tablets and white vinegar. 

'It might have dulled it a little but not budging.'

Pleading for advice from fellow cleaning enthusiastic on the Facebook group, she was inundated with responses - leading to the mother combining a trio of effective products that stopped the smell for good.

First on her shopping list was Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner, hailed for its powerful formula designed to eliminate bacteria, remove lime scale and dirt, and adds a refreshing fragrance to the machine. 

With its potent cleaning properties, the solution can even be poured directly into the detergent drawer while the machine is run a hot wash (around 60 degrees) to give your washer a refresh.

The determined mother proceeded to the next phase of her cleaning regimen, opting to scrub the entire drum of the washing machine with a mixture of cheap washing up liquid - such as Fairy or Fabulosa - and diluted Zoflora disinfectant. 

Her approach ensured ensured that every nook and cranny of the machine received a thorough cleanse while leaving behind a heavenly aroma.

Recognising the need for an extra boost of cleaning power, she offered a clever tip to fellow homeowners: placing a lemon and onion in the drum of the washing machine.

The use of the root vegetable and citrus fruit can effectively absorb any lingering odours, leaving clothes smelling fresh and revitalized after each cycle.

If you are tempted to try this combination for yourself, most of these items are readily available on the high street for under £5 each. 

Dettol cleaner can be ordered straight to your door from Amazon for £3, while Zoflora's concentrated disinfectant can be found at most B&Ms for £4.49, as well as Fabulosa's washing up liquid for £1.29.

It comes after experts issued a warning to homeowners in October 2023 to make sure to clean their washing machines properly after a woman found mould growing.