The washing machine – that silent hero of modern life – saves our backs, time and wardrobe every day. Throughout the week, it calmly devours sweaty T-shirts, muddy trousers and “I spilled wine on this, but don’t panic, mom has a machine”. Have you ever wondered who washes the machine? No, seriously. It deserves a little care too. And if you think that means two hours of scrubbing and a cloud of household cleaner, we have good news for you: there is a trick. And there is a button. You just have to know it.
The washing machine and the mysterious button: It's a simple feature that many owners of modern washing machines they don't even know they have it. Some might say it's an urban myth, but the internet (read: TikTok) has done its job again. One user revealed a trick that triggers self-cleaning program – and without chemicals, without dismantling the drum, and without exorcising mold. How? Read on.
Washing machine: How does this “secret” button work?
And why didn't anyone tell you this before?
It's basically a feature that was created specifically so that you don't have to kneel down by the machine every month like a penitent monk with a sponge in hand. If you have a fairly new washing machine (read: made in the last few years), there's a good chance it has a built-in self-cleaning cycleAnd many models activate it by simply press and hold the flush button for five seconds (or another specific button – check the instructions if you still have them… or find a digital PDF version, like all normal people in 2025).
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When you press this button, the magic begins. Your machine starts a program that uses higher temperatures, extra water, and more powerful spin to clean the drum, seals, and tubes. No vinegar, no mechanical work, no smell. The video's author enthusiastically said: “Then let the magic happen!” And we totally believe her – because anyone who has ever tried to manually remove odor from a rubber seal knows that it's not a task for the faint of heart.
Why is this important?
The washing machine is not a sterile beast. Although it may seem clean because “it has soap and hot water,” it is actually a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, mold and unpleasant odors. Especially if you regularly wash at low temperatures (which most people do) and use too much detergent (also a classic). Residue builds up inside, especially around the seals, in the pipes and on the drum, and over time causes your “clean” laundry to start smelling like a wet basement. Mmm, freshness.
Regular cleaning of the machine – using the self-cleaning function or manually – not only extends the life of the device, but also ensures more efficient washing, less bacteria and less desperate spraying of perfume on clothes before work.
What if your washing machine doesn't have this feature?
If you don't have a new model (or you just lost the instructions in a "I'll read this again" style), there's no need to panic. Most washing machines have at least a special drum cleaning program, which you activate as a normal cycle, but without laundry and with an additive baking soda or vinegar – or both for maximum effect. There are also dedicated washing machine cleaners available in stores if you want a slightly more “high-tech” approach.
It is important, however, to check periodically (read: monthly) gaskets and filter, where the most gruesome remnants of modern life lurk: coins, hair, missing socks, and clumps of detergent from three months ago. While it may not be glamorous, your nose will thank you in the future.
Technology with feeling – if you give it a chance
This “secret” button is no longer a secret. It’s just another reminder that technology is sometimes smarter than us—we just have to listen to it. Or at least give the people on TikTok a chance to tell us what we should have known when we made the purchase.
So next time you start your washing machine, stop for a second. You might have a feature that can clean your washing machine on its own while you enjoy your coffee. And if you don't, at least you know there's a way to avoid a smelly surprise in your sock drawer.
If the trick worked, congratulations – your machine will thank you (if not with words, then at least with its smell). If not… well, at least now you have a topic for your next wine night. Or for a new TikTok post.
