A washing machine is a very important appliance and is considered one of the most life-changing technologies. It cleans and sanitizes your clothes but it can’t clean itself. Therefore, it is not exempted from mold contamination, especially front-loading machines.

Mold and mildew can occur which may infect your clothes or stain them. Moreover, mold on clothes can produce an unpleasant musty smell which can really be irritating and can spread around your home. But you don’t need to worry. We will give you some helpful tips on how to get rid of mold in the washing machine.

Mold in Washing Machine

Front-loaders are efficient and now becoming famous in replace of top-loaders in many laundry rooms. However, due to its waterproof design, front-loading washers prevent leakage which tends to retain residual moisture inside the unit.

Moreover, mold is often found on the rubber gasket of front-load washing machines.

The suction traps moisture inside and forms pockets that are now responsible for the development of mold spores.

How to Get Rid of Mold in Washing Machine in Simple Ways

• Use gloves to protect your hands and a mask to avoid inhalation of mold spores.
• Make a solution for mold removal. You can use any commercial mold/mildew cleaner and you can also make a DIY mixture at home.

>>To get rid of a significant amount of mold in the washer gasket, mix 1-part vinegar and 4 parts warm water.

>>2 cups water + ½ cup white vinegar + ¼ cup lemon juice are effective cleaners to kill mold and stop its growth.

>>2 cups of baking soda directly in your washing machine will help clean and combat that musty odor.

>>Using bleach with water is an effective mixture to remove mold in the washing machine. You can try this if the natural cleaners don’t work for you.

• Pour the preferred cleaner into a spray bottle and spritz it over the mold on the gasket. Use a towel or a cloth to thoroughly clean the gasket. To prevent persistent moldy areas, allow the solution to sit for several minutes. You can also use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the affected material.
• After cleaning the rubber seal, it’s cleansing time for your hoses and drum. Run a clean cycle with your preferred mold cleaner and fill it with hot water like doing a load of laundry. This is to rinse away any traces and smells of mold in your drum and hoses. In addition, this will make your washing machine smell fresh.
• If the musty smell still persists after you have done the tips above, call the manufacturer or a qualified repairman.

Prevent Mold in Washing Machines

• Regularly wipe the door gasket with a mildew cleaner at least once a week. This will help eliminate moisture and residue from the detergent.
• Use only the appropriate detergent. If you have a High-Efficiency (HE) washer, only use HE laundry detergent. Follow only the recommended amount of detergent. Using non-HE detergent will leave many suds behind and which is responsible for the growth of mold.
• Don’t let wet clothes stay in your washer. Remove clothing immediately especially after a wash. This will prevent moisture and mold buildup.
• A dehumidifier is essential especially if the area where your washer is humid. Humidity contributes to mold problems. Set up one in your home.
• Just leave the door open every time you wash to let the moisture inside escape. This will help in preventing the formation of a damp environment which mold loves.

Contact Our Water Damage Experts

Try following the tips mentioned above on how to get rid of mold in the washing machine. The mold in your washing machine can spread to the surrounding areas and your entire home. Furthermore, your washing machine is also prone to other issues such as overflowing. Prevent mold growth and water damage now with Superior Restoration!

Please contact our local office, Water Damage Ontario. We are ready to rescue your home from water damage and its effects, 24/7.