Washing machines will stay mould free and won't smell if you stop using 1 common product

Many people in the UK have dealt with a musty smell coming from the washing machine, or the dreaded sight of black mould building up around the door seal. It can make freshly washed clothes smell worse than when they went in and, over time, damage the inside of the machine.

While newer models have been designed to help reduce these problems, mould and odours are still an issue for countless households. And experts now say one of the most common causes is something you may be adding to every wash. According to Consumer Reports, a trusted product-testing organisation, using a fabric conditioner is one of the biggest mistakes people make if they want to keep their washing machine clean.

Softener can leave behind a layer of residue that builds up inside the drum and detergent drawer.

This creates the perfect breeding ground for mould, especially in warm and damp conditions.

The advice is to skip fabric conditioner altogether and instead use a good-quality high-efficiency detergent.

Powder is said to be better than liquid when it comes to reducing buildup. It's also important not to use more detergent than needed, as the excess can leave behind residue.

Other simple tips include removing wet laundry as soon as a cycle ends, wiping the inside of the door and rubber gasket after every use, and leaving the door open to let moisture escape.

Consumer Reports also recommends taking out the detergent drawer regularly, rinsing it under the tap, and letting it dry completely between washes.

Running a monthly hot wash cycle using a drum cleaner or bleach can also help stop mould forming.

Some new machines now come with features specifically designed to prevent odours and mildew.

Whirlpool's FreshFlow system, for example, includes a fan that runs after the wash finishes to dry out the drum. Tests showed it helped reduce moisture and kept the inside of the machine dry.

GE has also introduced its own UltraFresh technology, which brings in fresh air and uses special materials to limit bacteria.

Experts found it significantly reduced humidity levels compared to machines without it.

But for most households, avoiding fabric conditioner could be the easiest and cheapest way to stop mould before it starts.