Abstract: A washing machine having an outer tub, a perforate rotatable drum housed in the tub, and a timer for cycling the machine through a series of operating phases. The tub has an opening and a housing affixed to the outer surface of the tub such that a space adjacent the tub opening and communicating with the tub is provided. Ultraviolet lamps are positioned in the housing, a door is located on the housing for sealingly closing the tub opening, and the door is controllable between open and closed positions. The timer controls opening and closing of the door so that items in the drum may be irradiated.