Households Unwittingly Fostering Mould in Washing Machines with Common Error
Households across the UK are being cautioned that they are inadvertently creating ideal conditions for mould to flourish inside their washing machines. Discovering a build-up of mouldy residue is both commonplace and irritating, with the marks often proving remarkably persistent and tricky to tackle effectively.
The Widespread Mistake That Promotes Mould Development
Gwilym Snook, AO's laundry specialist, has pinpointed one straightforward error that most people commit which actively promotes mould development in washing machines: shutting the door immediately following a wash cycle. According to Gwilym, this widespread practice traps dampness within the drum, enabling mould and bacteria to proliferate in the rubber seal and detergent drawer.
The washing machine seal represents a prime location for mould development, Gwilym explained. "Washing machine rubber door seals are one of the biggest hidden breeding grounds for mould in the home. They trap moisture, detergent residue and fabric fibres during and after washes, creating the perfect warm, damp environment for mould and bacteria to thrive."
He added that because the seal folds inward, it often stays wet long after a wash has finished, especially if the door is kept closed. If your clothes smell stale when they come out of the wash, or you notice that your washing machine smells funky when you open the door, then the chances are that you have developed a mould problem.
Six Simple Techniques to Keep Washing Machines Spotless and Mould-Free
With UK Google searches for "how to clean washing machine mould" surging significantly, it is evident many Brits are grappling with the same predicament. The positive news is that mould can be eliminated and kept at bay with a handful of straightforward steps. Below, Gwilym reveals six simple yet effective techniques.
- Clean the seal with white vinegar and a microfibre cloth: Gwilym explained that white vinegar is a natural wonder for breaking down the soap scum and lint that mould feeds on, and you can often get hold of a bottle for less than 50p. He recommends wedging vinegar-soaked cotton pads into the rubber and leaving them for around two hours to work their magic. Then, simply grab a damp microfibre cloth and wipe the area clean. For more stubborn stains, you may need a diluted bleach solution. Always follow it up with a high-temperature maintenance wash to clear any residue before your next load.
- Leave the door and detergent drawer open after each wash: Closing the door straight after a cycle might look tidy, but it traps moisture where you cannot see it. Letting the machine air out between washes is one of the simplest habits you can get into if you want to avoid mould.
- Wipe down the door seal and drum once a month: The door seal is usually the first place mould appears, and it catches people out. A quick wipe every so often stops build-up before it turns into a bigger problem and helps keep that musty smell away from clean laundry.
- Clean the detergent drawer and filter once a month: If a washing machine smells even when it is empty, the drawer or filter is typically the culprit. These areas are easy to forget, but keeping them clean helps the whole machine run better and stay fresher for longer. Scrubbing this section with a toothbrush and a paste created from baking soda and white vinegar can tackle stubborn mould, then you should run an empty cycle to disperse any lingering spores.
- Run empty cleaning cycles to kill early signs of mould: Detergent alone will not keep a washing machine clean. Instead, a regular hot empty cycle clears out hidden residue and build-up inside the drum and pipes, which is often what causes lingering odours and mould.
- Do not overload your machine and remove wet laundry immediately: Overfilling the drum or leaving wet clothes sitting inside creates the perfect damp environment for mould. Finishing the job properly and giving the machine space to drain makes a noticeable difference over time.
Budget-Friendly Solutions and Proactive Maintenance
The AO laundry specialist has also revealed a range of straightforward, budget-friendly tips to stop mould accumulating in the first place, including the 50p vinegar hack that can help eliminate early-stage mould from the seal. Gwilym has outlined why you should always leave the machine door ajar after a cycle, alongside several other recommendations from AO.com, the UK's washing machine specialists, to eradicate mould and maintain fresh-smelling laundry.
By implementing these simple yet effective strategies, households can significantly reduce the risk of mould development, ensuring their washing machines remain clean, efficient, and odour-free. Regular maintenance and mindful habits are key to preventing the persistent problem of washing machine mould.
