Households are being warned that they may be unwittingly creating ideal conditions for mould to thrive inside their washing machines. Discovering a build-up of mouldy residue is both common and frustrating, with marks often proving stubborn to remove.
Gwilym Snook, a laundry specialist at AO, has identified one simple mistake that promotes mould growth: closing the washing machine door immediately after a wash. This traps moisture inside the drum, allowing mould and bacteria to flourish in the rubber seal and detergent drawer.
Snook recommends always leaving the door ajar after a cycle to let the machine air out. He also suggests a 50p vinegar hack: soak cotton pads in white vinegar, wedge them into the rubber seal for two hours, then wipe clean with a damp microfibre cloth. For stubborn stains, a diluted bleach solution can be used, followed by a high-temperature maintenance wash.
Other tips include wiping the door seal regularly, cleaning the detergent drawer and filter with a baking soda and vinegar paste, and running an empty hot cycle to clear residue. Avoid overfilling the drum and remove wet clothes promptly to prevent damp conditions.
With UK Google searches for “how to clean washing machine mould” on the rise, these simple steps can help keep machines mould-free and laundry smelling fresh.
