New Delhi, Aug. 26 -- It may sound surprising, but one of the cleanest-looking spots in your home could also be one of the dirtiest. Washing machines are built to scrub away grime and freshen up clothes, but only a few of us know that they are often a hidden hotspot for mould and unpleasant odours. Dampness, leftover detergent, and poor ventilation are some of the biggest factors responsible for this.

According to James Clarkson, a professional plumber with Plumbworld, this problem is more common than most people realise. "When moisture and detergent residue get trapped in seals or detergent drawers, mould develops quickly. That build-up not only causes odours but also impacts the freshness of your laundry," Clarkson explains.

Why washi...