I Finally Learned How to Use the Detergent Drawer Correctly — and It Completely Changed My Laundry

Cleaning the detergent drawer turned out to be much easier than I expected — and it made an instant difference.

Here’s what I did:

1. Remove the drawer completely. Most washing machines have a small release tab near the center. Gently press it down and slide the drawer out.
2. Soak it in warm water. I filled the sink with warm, soapy water and let the drawer soak for about 15 minutes. This loosened the hardened residue that had been sitting there for years.
3. Scrub every corner. With a toothbrush and a mild detergent, I scrubbed the edges, the compartments, and the small channels where detergent and water flow. A mixture of vinegar and water worked perfectly for the tougher spots.
4. Clean the inside of the compartment. Before putting the drawer back, I wiped down the area inside the washer where it sits. This spot collects dirt too — and often smells musty if left unattended.
5. Dry completely. Once everything was clean, I let it dry fully before sliding it back in place.

Afterward, the drawer looked brand-new — and for the first time in months, my laundry smelled crisp and truly clean.

Understanding the Compartments

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