'I tried every hack to get my washing machine clean only 1 thing worked - not white vinega

After a year of owning a new washing machine, an unpleasant odour began to permeate my supposedly clean clothes.

Despite leaving the washing machine door and drawer open after each wash, and diligently wiping away mould from the drawer, my clothes still emerged with a foul smell.

Even using the self-wash setting on the machine didn't help.

In desperation, I turned to scent boosters which initially worked wonders, but eventually, the musty smell returned. The stench was so bad that pulling out a garment from my wardrobe became a nose-wrinkling experience; even tried-and-tested home remedies like white vinegar and baking soda failed to make a difference.

That's when I decided to try Dettol 5 in 1 Antibacterial Washing Machine Cleaner, priced at just under £4. The product promises to "kill bacteria", prevent bad odours, remove limescale and hidden dirt, resulting in "lasting freshness".

Although it seemed surprising to use the entire bottle for one wash, the process was straightforward and effective. All I had to do was pour the contents into the washing machine drawer (where the detergent usually goes) and run a 60C wash without any clothes inside.

While there was no immediate change post-wash, the difference was noticeable after my first laundry load.

Intrigued, I decided to give it a go and washed my clothes with just detergent - no scent boosters. To my surprise, the clothes emerged from the wash smelling delightful.

Given the recommended usage is one bottle every two months, it seems like a worthwhile investment.

While I still have many laundry loads to go before I can definitively say there's "lasting freshness", this has been the simplest and most effective method of cleaning my washing machine so far.

Sometimes, natural alternatives don't always cut it - and chemical cleaners can be incredibly efficient at what they're designed for.

Considering I've previously exhausted copious amounts of white vinegar and baking soda in an attempt to clean my washing machine, I'm more than happy to stick with this chemical product.

Moreover, the price difference isn't significant - and the results, in my view, are far superior.