Neglecting your washing machine can cause it to be full of germs and result in mould which is typically found in the rubber seal of front-loading appliances. Alongside this, you may notice a very unpleasant smell! The seal stops water escaping through the door – but the narrow groove traps excess moisture which encourages the growth of mould.
Washing machine mould can be transferred onto your clothes – increasing sensitivity to people with asthma and other respiratory infections. Mould thrives if not properly contained, and excess suds and residual water are the ideal breeding ground.
So, how do you get mould off washing machine rubber? Read on…
Removing the Mould
How to remove mould from your washing machine is quite simple if you follow these basic steps:
Equipment needed:- Bleach, or eco -friendly solution of white vinegar, water, and baking soda
- Spray bottle
- Soft cloth and scourer
- Vinyl gloves to protect your hands
- Dust mask to avoid inhaling mould spores
- Kitchen roll
- Clean towel
- Old toothbrush
Using a damp cloth wipe down any dust that has gathered on the drum and inside the door, easing back the seal to remove any lint or fluff that has formed there. Put your white vinegar solution into a spray bottle and spray into the awkward hard-to-reach parts leaving it to soak for a few minutes.
Then using the sponge gently scrub inside the seal getting rid of any mould and debris. Finish with a spray of hot, soapy water wiping all-around before drying with a clean towel. Leave the door open to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
2. Clean the dispenserHow to clean mould from your washing machine dispenser is easy if the drawer comes out. Then you can wash it under clean running water and use your spray solution for deep cleaning. If the drawer doesn’t come out use an old toothbrush or pipe cleaner dipped in the solution to reach into the back of the crevices.
3. Clean the filterThe quickest way to clean your filter is to remove it from the appliance and soak it in hot water loosening any clogged or trapped residue. A blocked filter not only limits the washing machines efficiency but leads to lint deposits on clothing – and can result in nasty odours.
4. Run cleaning cycleRun an empty wash on a hot setting with a purpose-designed washing machine cleaner, or a cup of bleach or baking soda. Repeating the cycle will ensure that any smells will be eliminated and all mould will be removed – and the drum and hoses will also be sanitised.
Preventing Washing Machine Mould
There are certain things you can do to stop black mould in your washing machine and these include:
- 1. Using the right detergent and the correct amount as recommended by the manufacturer
- 2. Leaving the door open after each wash to let excessive moisture escape
- 3. Taking out wet clothes as soon as the cycle has finished discouraging mould build-up
- 4. Wiping the seal with your white vinegar solution every week to eliminate moisture and excess detergent
- 5. Setting up a dehumidifier in the room if the mould is persistent
Get Local Washing Machine Repairs
When you’ve tried everything and the mould still persists it may be time to call in the professionals who can dismantle your appliance to diagnose the problem. Washing machine repair in London is easy to arrange – and you’ll be able to make a short notice booking.
Your fully insured service will be carried out by highly trained technicians using advanced tools and equipment. Get a quick quote upfront, and benefit from low costs and a six-month quality guarantee.
