Calgon or washing soda?

Calgon is supposed to remove limescale, which washing-soda in my experience considers beneath its notice to tackle.

I leave my washing machine open after use - so it never smells.

And wash it twice yearly empty on a hot cycle using hexaphophate against limescale.

What is the difference between washing soda and Calgon? I always assumed it was the same stuff but you paid extra for Calgon because it had a fancy name.

Baggs

I use soda crystals in every wash. Machine is never smelly because build-up of scum never happens.

I have never used Calgon.

Same here. Soda crystals in the drawer and only ever powder in the drum. Stopped using pods and conditioner some years ago - they gum up the machine with gunge.
My WM never smells any more.

I agree Baggs that’s what I do too

I sprinkled it into the drum.

Agree with all above but we always leave washing machine door open after a wash This prevents a lot of trouble around the rubber ring on the door.

Dogsmother, how much baking powder? Was it left in the bottom of dry drum?

I use soda crystals in every wash. Machine is never smelly because build-up of scum never happens.

Me too - we have very hard water and the soda crystals act as a water softener, so I need less detergent. I never use fabric conditioner and I think that helps prevent smells too.

I use soda crystals in every wash. Machine is never smelly because build-up of scum never happens.

I have never used Calgon.

Visgirl - where do you stick the dishwasher tabs - drum or drawer?

I have used Dishwasher tablets saw as a Mrs Hinch suggestion. Worked for me.
Spoke to a friend she said she's been doing that for ages.

About once a month, I run the washing machine empty on hot with about half a pack of washing soda and a small bottle of white vinegar.. seems to do the trick

I left baking powder in the machine whilst I was away, I did this with the dishwasher also and added a bit and ran them on my return. This worked a treat.