Sometimes, a washing machine can start to smell a little nasty, leaving households wondering what could be causing the funk.
In most cases, it will be the seal around the washing machine, as it could be covered in mould without even realising it - causing an overwhelmingly damp smell. High Pressure Electric Water Pump
When cleaning a washing machine gasket covered in mould, it is important to target both the visible upper surface of the seal and the underside where the water drains away.
This is a common, hidden spot where mould accumulates and spreads around the machine and onto the laundry.
To help clean this area, Express.co.uk heard from Ron Shimek, president at Mr. Appliance on how to remove and prevent washing machine seal mould.
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Before being able to tackle the task, households need to know what causes mould to fester on rubber seals.
Mould in washing machine rubber seals is typically caused by a combination of moisture, detergent residue, and organic materials such as lint or dirt that can accumulate in the warm and damp environment of the rubber seals - and a lack of sunlight helps the mould to grow.
In order to “remove mould from washing machine rubber seals without scrubbing”, Ron instructed: “When you finish washing clothes for the day, take a washcloth with equal parts of white vinegar and water and wipe down the door gasket.
“Leave the door open until it’s dry. Once a month, run a cleaning cycle using hot water and one cup of white vinegar, or any of the wonderful washer cleaning products on the market today.”
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White vinegar is a staple in most households, particularly when it comes to cleaning. For those who don’t already own a bottle, it can be picked up from Tesco for 29p.
Not only can this liquid remove mould, it can also “prevent mould from growing back on washing machine rubber seals”.
Ron said: “To prevent mould growth on washing machine rubber seals, homeowners should regularly wipe down the seals after each wash, leaving the door ajar to allow for better air circulation and drying, and periodically running a cleaning cycle with white vinegar.”
While washing machine seal mould can be tackled with this home remedy, there are instances when professional help is needed.
Ron urged: “Homeowners should contact an expert for mould removal from washing machine rubber seals if the mould problem is extensive and persistent or if they have health concerns related to mould exposure.
“In such cases, a professional mould remediation service may be necessary to ensure thorough and safe removal.”
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