Are you battling stubborn black mould on your washing machine's rubber seal? A leading cleaning expert has revealed a surprisingly simple and incredibly cheap solution that banishes the grime for good.
The Hidden Problem in Your Laundry Room
While mould commonly plagues various parts of a washing machine, many people completely overlook the rubber seal around the door. This component is a particular trouble spot because it constantly traps moisture, detergent residue, and general grime. This damp environment allows mould to rapidly take hold and flourish.
This mould growth doesn't just look unsightly; it can actually damage your appliance. It may compromise the machine's ability to seal properly, potentially shortening its overall lifespan. Worse still, it can transfer marks, unpleasant odours, and dirt onto your clean laundry, undoing all your hard work.
The Kitchen Cupboard Saviour
According to Debbie Young, a specialist from Scrub Hub, you don't need to resort to harsh chemicals like bleach or pay for an expensive professional clean. The answer is likely already sitting in your kitchen.
Her powerful yet simple advice is to use a common dishwasher tablet. These tabs, celebrated for their ability to cut through grease and food residue on dishes, are equally formidable when deployed in your washing machine.
"You don't need to hire a professional to dismantle and deep clean your machine or use any pricy washing machine detergents," Debbie explained. "Traditional dishwasher tabs are a cheap and powerful option."
How to Execute the Simple Clean
The process for a mould-free machine is straightforward. First, ensure your washing machine is completely empty. Then, place one or two dishwasher tablets directly into the drum.
Next, add some water to the detergent dispenser and select a hot wash cycle, ideally at a 90-degree setting. Start the cycle and let the machine and the tablet do all the hard work.
Once the cycle is complete, the final step is to tackle the seal directly. Take a clean cloth or sponge and wipe around the rubber seal. Thanks to the deep clean from the dishwasher tablet, any lingering mould should wipe away with ease.
"When the cycle is complete, you can use the machine as usual, and it will be clean and smell great!" Debbie confirmed.
Preventing Mould's Return
To stop the mould from coming back, a simple habit change is all it takes. Make a point of leaving the washing machine door slightly ajar after you finish a load. This allows the interior and the seal to air dry completely, removing the damp conditions that mould needs to grow.
Debbie Young assures that with this method, removing stubborn mould is "that simple," leaving you with a hygienic, fresh-smelling appliance that works perfectly.
