Keeping your washing machine mold-free is crucial for fresh-smelling laundry and a healthy home. To remove any mold from your washing machine, you need to clean the drum, the gasket, and the detergent dispenser, and run a maintenance cycle. Continue regular checks and maintenance to prevent future molds.
So, want to learn the details of preventing and removing mold from your washing machine? Let’s get started!
How to Remove Washing Machine Mold
If mold has already taken hold, don’t worry—there are several effective ways to clean it out of your washing machine.
1. Gather Necessary Supplies
Before you start cleaning, ensure you have the right tools.
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- A scrubbing brush
- Gloves.
2. Cleaning the Drum
Start by tackling the drum, which is the main area where mold can grow.
- Run a Hot Water Cycle: Pour 2 cups of vinegar into the drum and run a hot water cycle. Vinegar helps break down mold and deodorize the machine.
- Add Baking Soda: After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot water cycle. This will help scrub away any remaining mold.
3. Cleaning the Gasket
The gasket around the door is a common place for mold to hide.
- Scrub the Gasket: Mix vinegar and water in equal parts, and use a scrubbing brush to clean the gasket. Be sure to get into all the folds where mold can accumulate.
- Wipe It Down: After scrubbing, wipe the gasket with a clean, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture.
4. Cleaning the Detergent Dispenser
Don’t forget the detergent drawer—it’s another spot where mold loves to grow.
- Remove the Drawer: If your washing machine allows it, remove the detergent drawer entirely and soak it in hot, soapy water.
- Scrub and Rinse: Use a small brush to clean all the nooks and crannies, then rinse and dry the drawer thoroughly before reinserting it.
5. Running a Maintenance Cycle
After cleaning, it’s important to run a final maintenance cycle to ensure all mold is gone.
- Use Vinegar or a Specialized Cleaner: Pour 2 cups of vinegar or a washing machine cleaner into the drum and run an empty hot water cycle. This will help kill any remaining mold spores and freshen up your machine.
- Repeat as Needed: If the mold problem is severe, you might need to run this maintenance cycle a few times to eliminate the mold.
Addressing Stubborn Mold
Sometimes, mold can be tough to remove. Here’s what to do if the basic cleaning steps don’t work.
1. Deep Cleaning with Hydrogen Peroxide or Bleach
When regular cleaning methods aren’t enough, it’s time to bring out stronger cleaning agents.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Pour 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide into the drum and run a hot water cycle. This is a powerful disinfectant that can kill tough mold.
- Bleach: If mold persists, run a cycle with 1 cup of bleach. Be careful, though—bleach is strong, so use it sparingly and ensure the area is well-ventilated.
2. Professional Cleaning Services
If you’ve tried everything and the mold still won’t budge, it might be time to call in the pros.
- When to Call a Pro: If the mold problem is severe, or if you have health concerns, consider hiring a professional to deep clean your washing machine.
- What to Expect: Professional cleaners have tools and solutions that can thoroughly remove mold from hard-to-reach places inside your machine.
How to Prevent Washing Machine Mold
Prevention is key to avoiding the hassle of dealing with mold in your washing machine. Here are some effective ways to keep your machine clean and mold-free.
1. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
To keep mold at bay, cleaning your washing machine regularly is important.
- Regular Inspections: Check the drum, gasket, and detergent drawer regularly for any signs of mold.
- Act Quickly: If you see mold starting to form, don’t wait—clean it right away to stop it from spreading.
- Monthly Deep Clean: Run a hot water cycle with either white vinegar or baking soda once a month. This helps break down any buildup and keeps your machine smelling fresh.
- Use a Washing Machine Cleaner: Every few months, consider using a washing machine cleaner to tackle any stubborn residue.
2. Keep the Door and Detergent Drawer Open
Airflow is your washing machine’s best friend when it comes to preventing mold.
- Leave the Door Ajar: After using the washer, leave the door slightly open to let air circulate. This helps dry out the interior and reduces moisture buildup.
- Open the Detergent Drawer: Mold loves to grow in dark, damp places. By leaving the detergent drawer open, you allow it to dry out between washes.
3. Use the Right Detergent
Using the correct detergent is not just about cleaning your clothes—it’s also about protecting your washing machine from mold.
- Choose High-Efficiency (HE) Detergents: These detergents produce fewer suds, reducing residue that can lead to mold.
- Avoid Overusing Detergent: More isn’t always better. Stick to the recommended amount to avoid excess soap, which can create a breeding ground for mold.
4. Remove Wet Laundry Promptly
One of the simplest ways to prevent mold is to avoid leaving wet laundry sitting in the washer.
- Transfer Clothes Quickly: As soon as your laundry cycle is finished, remove the clothes from the washer. Mold can start growing within a few hours in damp environments.
- Dry the Drum: If you can’t remove the laundry right away, make it a habit to run the spin cycle again before taking them out. This helps reduce moisture inside the machine.
Related Post: Tips for Perfectly Cleaning Your Clothes
5. Ensure Proper Installation
How your washing machine is installed can impact whether or not it develops mold.
- Level the Machine: Make sure your washing machine is level. If not, water may not drain properly, leading to mold.
- Check the Plumbing: Ensure that your washer is properly connected to the plumbing and that there are no leaks or standing water, which can lead to mold.
6. Consider a Dehumidifier
Reducing the overall humidity in your laundry room can make a big difference.
- Place a Dehumidifier Nearby: If your laundry room is particularly damp, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air.
- Monitor Humidity Levels: Aim to keep the humidity level in your laundry area below 50% to prevent mold growth.
Wrapping Up
Keeping your washing machine mold-free is all about regular maintenance and quick action when you spot a problem.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your laundry stays fresh and your machine runs smoothly for years to come.
So, ready to tackle mold? Start with a deep clean today, and don’t forget to share these tips with friends who might be facing the same issue!