Mould can build up in your washing machine (stock photo) (Image: Getty)
Mould in your washing machine can be a big problem.
We all know that the fungus loves to grow in damp places, and given that your washing machine cleans clothes with water, it’s only natural that if left to its own devices, may start to grow inside the appliance.
Not only does this look unsightly, it can actually damage parts of the machine – especially the rubber seal around the outside of the door. Mould can eat away at this seal and cause the material to deteriorate, which can eventually lead to leaks.
What’s more, washing your clothes in a machine contaminated with mould can leave your garments with a permanently musty smell. The fungus can even be bad for your health, as the damp and mould in your home can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and asthma.
If you notice mould in your washing machine, you should take steps to remove it by washing out your appliance. However, there is a way you can prevent mould from growing in the first place – and it doesn’t involve any at all.
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In a post on , one person asked for advice after noticing the drawer of their washing machine keeps getting covered in spots of mould – even after they’ve rinsed it out.
Commenters on the post were quick to tell the user that the easiest thing to do to prevent mould from growing in the drawer is to simply open it after every use so the compartment can dry out. Others suggested removing the drawer completely and setting it upside down on a tea towel to drain the excess liquid away.
One person said: “You need to air out the machine after each use. So keep the drawer open and keep the door open after every wash.”
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Another added: “You can fully remove the drawer and dump out the little bit of water that’s left in, then leave it on the counter to dry out. It’s better than just leaving the drawer open.”
Taking out the drawer to let it dry after every use is a great way to prevent mould from growing. You should also leave the door to your washing machine ajar so that air can circulate through the appliance when you’re not using it.
For added peace of mind, you can also run a cloth or tea towel around the door seal once a cycle has finished to mop up any excess water caught between the rubber.
Commenters on the post also offered advice for cleaning your washing machine if you find it already has mould in it. For the drawer, it was recommended that you use your cleaning product of choice and scrub it with an old toothbrush.
For the drum itself, you can use a solution of four parts water to one part white vinegar and then run your washing machine on a cycle with hot water to fully clean out the appliance.
The rubber seal can be treated with a cotton wool ball or pad dipped in white vinegar to wipe mould away.