Yes—but only when the manufacturer specifically states that it is suitable for your particular machine.
For some Miele models, the manufacturer’s instructions allow the use of a specific citric-acid-based descaling product.
That does not necessarily mean that any amount of pure citric acid purchased from a grocery store is appropriate.
Follow:
- The washing machine manual
- The approved product’s dosage
- The recommended temperature
- The specified cleaning or descaling program
Is 200 Grams of Citric Acid a Universal Dosage?
No.
A fixed amount such as 200 grams should not be presented as a universal recommendation for every washing machine.
Different machines use different materials, seals, heating systems, and cleaning programs.
A quantity that is appropriate for one machine may be unsuitable for another.
The safer approach is to check whether the manufacturer permits citric acid and follow the specified dosage rather than relying on a generic internet recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can baking soda remove mold from a washing machine?
Baking soda may help with certain odors and light residue, but it should not be treated as a reliable method for removing established mold.
Is citric acid better than vinegar?
Not universally.
Both are acids and can affect certain materials. Bosch, for example, advises against using both vinegar and citric acid in its washing machines.
Should I run the washer at 90°C?
Only if the manufacturer’s instructions or the machine’s cleaning program allows it.
Some machines use dedicated cleaning programs at lower temperatures.
Why does the rubber gasket smell?
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Moisture, lint, hair, and detergent residue can accumulate inside the gasket folds.
Cleaning and drying the gasket regularly can help prevent recurring odors.
Can I just pour something into the drum and fix everything?
No.
A washing machine has several areas that can collect residue:
- Drum
- Rubber gasket
- Detergent drawer
- Pump filter
- Drainage system
A single “miracle mixture” cannot reliably solve every type of washing-machine problem.
The Best Alternative to Vinegar Isn’t Always Another DIY Hack
Citric acid can be effective at dissolving mineral deposits, but it should not automatically be poured into every washing machine.
Baking soda may help with certain odors, but combining baking soda with citric acid neutralizes much of the chemical effect that makes either useful for specific purposes.
For a cleaner, fresher washing machine, a better approach is to clean the rubber gasket and detergent drawer, check the pump filter, allow the machine to dry after use, and run the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning program.
If descaling is necessary, use a method and product approved for your particular machine.
That may sound less dramatic than the promise of “one ingredient that makes your washing machine like new,” but it is a much safer and more reliable approach for both cleaning performance and the long-term condition of the machine.
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