The secret button in your washing machine that makes cleaning filthy dispenser drawers a doddle – say goodbye to mould

BRITS are only just realising that their washing machines have a hidden button to make cleansing the appliance easier than ever. 

The secret catch will allow you to remove your dispenser tray from the machine - an area of the appliance that is a breeding ground for mould

Can you spot the secret button for removing your washing machine dispenser drawer?
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Can you spot the secret button for removing your washing machine dispenser drawer?Credit: Getty

Thankfully, cleaning fans have discovered a secret button that makes the drawer pop straight out. 

Once removed, it’s best to soak it in warm, soapy water before using a brush to scrub away any built-up residue.

You should rinse it thoroughly before popping it back into the machine. 

Additionally, wiping down the inside of the dispenser compartment in the washing machine itself can help to remove any remaining residue and prevent future buildup.

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But where is the secret button?

Obviously, this varies brand-to-brand. 

Typically though, it is on top of the fabric softener slot with a finger shaped area showing you where to press down. 

While pressing down on the button, which tends to be blue, you need to gently wiggle the drawer out of the compartment.

If you have a Hotpoint washing machine, things are a bit different. 

Luckily, you can watch the video at the top of this article to show you how the dispenser drawer needs to be removed on the appliance brand’s newer models. 

Taking to Facebook, Faith Earle revealed that she never knew there was a button on her washing machine that let her remove the drawer so easily. 

She shared before-and-after pictures since she stripped growing black mould from the inside of the compartment. 

Faith discovered that the compartment itself was growing black mould
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Faith discovered that the compartment itself was growing black mouldCredit: Facebook/Cleaning tips and tricks
She removed the drawer to give it a good scrub
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She removed the drawer to give it a good scrubCredit: Facebook/Cleaning tips and tricks

Why should you do it? 

It is important to keep your washing machine’s dispenser drawer clean to prevent any build-up of mould and bacteria.

Over time, detergent, fabric softener and other laundry products can build up and create a breeding ground for bacteria, mould and mildew. 

Cleaning the drawer regularly helps to prevent the growth of these harmful microorganisms, ensuring your laundry stays clean and fresh.

What’s more, a clogged or dirty dispenser drawer can impede the flow of detergent and fabric softener into the washing machine during the wash cycle. 

This can result in inadequate cleaning or softening of your laundry. 

By keeping the dispenser drawer clean, you ensure that the products dispense properly, leading to more effective cleaning and softening of your clothes.

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Accumulated residue in the dispenser drawer can also affect the overall performance and lifespan of your washing machine, as well as hike up your energy bills as the appliance works harder to wash clothes.

By cleaning the dispenser drawer regularly, you help to prevent potential blockages in the machine's internal plumbing and ensure smooth operation.