People ‘gobsmacked’ after realising there’s a secret button on some washing machines that means it NEVER needs cleaning

IT'S a job put off by many, and completely ignored by others.

But if you've got a Hotpoint washing machine, you don't need to worry about when you're going to fit a clean of the device into your schedule.

Close-up of a Hotpoint washing machine's door during a wash cycle.
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Queen of Clean Lynsey took to TikTok to share her genius hack to avoid having to manually clean out your washing machineCredit: TikTok / @lynsey_queenofclean
A finger presses a button on a Hotpoint washing machine's self-clean mode.
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Hotpoint devices have a secret button on them which puts them into "self clean mode"Credit: TikTok / @lynsey_queenofclean
Instructions for activating a self-cleaning mode on a Hotpoint washing machine by holding the rinse button.
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All you have to do is press and hold the rinse button to activate the self-clean functionCredit: TikTok / @lynsey_queenofclean

And that's because there's a secret button you can hit to active the "self-clean mode".

Self-described 'Queen of Clean' Lynsey took to her TikTok page to share a video explaining the hack.

"Switch it on and hold the rinse button for five seconds to activate the mode," she advised.

"Then let the magic happen!"

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Lynsey added in the video caption that putting on self-clean mode "helps keep your machine fresh, clean, and working at its best".

"Because let’s be honest, even washing machines need a good wash sometimes!" she concluded.

"Give it a go and let me know if you try it!"

Shortly after Lynsey posted the video, she was inundated with comments from chuffed homeowners who had tested the hack out themselves on their Hotpoint machines.

"I have this machine, I didn’t even know this was a feature!" one wrote.

"Didn’t know this, thanks!" another added.

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"Only had the machine 5 years - lol on self clean now."

"Omg no!" a third marvelled.

"Just tried this and it worked! Thanks!"

"I've done this to my Hotpoint washing machine and I am gobsmacked I didn’t even know!

"But now I do."

"This has actually worked...amazing," someone else praised.

More winter laundry tips

Tackling laundry in the winter can be a challenge, but these handy tips can help you stay on top of it:

  • Use a Dehumidifier: Place a dehumidifier in your drying area to speed up the drying process and prevent dampness.
  • Spin Cycle Boost: Run an extra spin cycle on your washing machine to remove excess water from clothes, reducing drying time.
  • Indoor Drying Rack: Invest in a good-quality indoor drying rack and position it near a radiator or in a well-ventilated room.
  • Tumble Dryer Balls: Add tumble dryer balls to your dryer to help clothes dry faster and reduce static cling.
  • Space-Saving Hangers: Use space-saving hangers or a retractable washing line to maximise indoor drying space.
  • Microfibre Towels: Lay microfibre towels over your drying rack to absorb extra moisture from hanging clothes.
  • Partially Dry Outside: On dry days, hang clothes outside for a short period before bringing them in to finish drying.

These hacks can help you keep your laundry routine efficient and your clothes fresh, even during the colder months.

"Didn’t have a clue, just did it and BINGO!! Thanks for the tip!" another said.

"Thanks, just put mine on!" someone else laughed.

While others revealed that the self-clean mode isn't limited to just Hotpoint machines.  

"So do Samsungs," one wrote.

With another agreeing: "Me too & my samsung tells me when to clean it."

"Same on some AEG washing machines," a third said.

As others said that Beko and Nokia washing machines also have the added feature.

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Cleaning a washing machine not only prevents the growth of mould and mildew, it also eliminates odours and improves its efficiency.

Regular cleans - advised once monthly for a normal family household - are also important in helping to extend the appliance's lifespan.