A simple two-second task can prevent black mould from forming in washing machine detergent drawers, according to cleaning enthusiasts on a popular Facebook group. The trick involves leaving the detergent drawer and machine door open after each wash to allow air circulation, which dries out the damp environment where mould thrives.
Why Black Mould Appears
Black mould in the detergent drawer is a common issue for many households, often caused by trapped moisture. A user on the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips Facebook page shared a photo of a drawer covered in black spots, writing: "Please could you anyone recommend why this keeps happening in my washing machine? It's been going on for years and I've tried so many things! I'm really fed up....it grows back so quickly...I find that bleach spray and scrubbing is the only thing that gets rid of most of it. But it grows back so quickly."
The No-Chemical Fix
Fellow group members advised that no cleaning products are needed to prevent recurrence. One person wrote: "If you haven't already, leave the compartment door open after use." Another added: "It keeps happening because the moisture in the drawer has nowhere to go. Damp and dark makes mould. You need air exposure to your drawer after each wash, so either take it out completely or leave it open to let air circulate and let it dry."
A third commenter noted: "Do you close the door after a wash? If so that's why you shouldn't close a door on washing leave slightly open and wipe it with tea towel so it's not wet." A fourth agreed: "Leave the drawer and the door open slightly after each use. I do this and NEVER have any mould at all."
Additional Cleaning Solutions
For those who already have mould, one user recommended: "Leave the drawer open and remove it every week/ couple of weeks and give it a good soak. Astonish Mildew and Mould should remove it. I use a toothbrush to clean the inside." Another suggested using white vinegar or adding soda crystals to every wash cycle to inhibit mould growth.
Boosting airflow around the machine is key to eliminating the damp, dark conditions that black mould requires to grow. By adopting this simple habit, households can avoid the need for harsh chemicals and frequent scrubbing.
