Cleaning enthusiasts shared their top tips to prevent mould growing in your washing machine, and it only takes five minutes of your time after each cycle
Washing machines are notorious for becoming a breeding ground for mould, with the damp conditions inside making it a perfect environment for spores to thrive. The most common spots for mould to appear are in the detergent drawer and around the rubber seal of the door.
A mouldy washing machine can start emitting an unpleasant smell, which can even transfer to your clothes along with bacteria. Preventing mould is key, as once it takes hold, it’s quite a challenge to eradicate.
A Mumsnet user, after buying a new washing machine, sought advice on the forum to avoid the mould issues they faced with their previous one, reports the Express.
The user, going by Notcontent, posted: “In my last washing machine, I developed black mould in the rubber seal around the door frame – in that bit where the water collects. I tried cleaning it a few times, but not very successfully.”
They continued, expressing their resolve with the new appliance: “I now have a new washing machine and I am determined to keep this under control. Any tips? I have heard that doing hot washes every so often helps. Anything else? Thank you.”
While regular 60-degree washes can help eliminate bacteria and mould spores, there’s also a “critical” step that shouldn’t be overlooked to maintain a clean machine.
User sandrab46 shared a golden tip from her 15 years of cleaning experience on Mumsnet, advising clients: “I’ve been a cleaner for over 15 years, and if there’s one thing I recommend to all my clients, it’s to always wipe down the rubber seal and drawer and keep the door open for at least five minutes after each wash. It’s critical if you never want to have to deal with mould in the washer again.”
Fellow Mumsnet users echoed similar sentiments. Cynderella suggested: “Definitely leave the door open and wipe it down with a dry cloth.”
Minipie wrote: “I leave the door open and do a 60 wash once a week. That seems to have been enough to avoid mould for years.”
Another tactic to fend off washing machine mould is promptly moving wet laundry to the dryer post-wash to prevent excess moisture. For those battling existing mould, Beko experts endorse white vinegar as an effective natural solution.
They clarified: “White vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner that can help remove odours and clean your washing machine’s drum.”
To utilise this method, simply pour a cup of white vinegar into the drum and run the washing machine on its highest temperature setting, which will aid in eradicating any lurking bacteria.
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