As temperatures rise across the UK, washing machines become more susceptible to mould growth. Fungal spores thrive in humid conditions, and after a wash cycle, the drum and detergent drawers can remain damp for extended periods, accelerating mould development.
A mould build-up creates a slimy residue within the machine, which can cause blockages and breakdowns, while also leaving clothes inadequately cleaned and smelling musty. Many households neglect washing machine maintenance, assuming it's complicated, but keeping it in good condition is surprisingly straightforward.
The simplest prevention method
Marilee Nelson from cleaning brand Branch Basics has revealed that the single most effective method of preventing mould is simply leaving the washing machine door ajar after each cycle. She explained: "Mould and mildew cannot grow in your front loader (or anywhere for that matter) without a food and water source. So, your first step is to remove the moisture from your washer by leaving the door open between washes."
It may sound deceptively straightforward, but washing machines can remain damp for several days following a laundry cycle. Leaving the door open allows that excess moisture to dissipate. Allowing dampness to linger on surfaces over prolonged periods encourages mould formation, and any washing detergent residue that remains wet can become a hotbed for bacterial growth.
Simply remove all clothing from the washing machine the moment a cycle finishes, then leave both the door and detergent drawer open. This encourages better air circulation throughout the machine, allowing moisture to evaporate and all internal surfaces to remain dry — the single most effective method of keeping mould at bay.
Deep cleaning a mouldy machine
Should you spot any slimy build-up or detect musty odours from your washing machine, tackling mould can be surprisingly simple. All you require is some distilled white vinegar, a natural cleaning solution widely available in most supermarkets, which contains acetic acid — a substance well known for breaking down bacteria and mould spores.
Generously spray white vinegar onto the detergent drawer and around the inside of the rubber door seal. These areas are particularly susceptible to mould growth as they are enclosed spaces where soap residue and moisture tend to accumulate. Leave the white vinegar to work on these surfaces for five minutes before wiping them clean with a damp cloth.
It can also prove beneficial to pour white vinegar directly into the detergent drawer, select a hot wash setting, and run the machine empty to eliminate any remaining spores within the drum. Keep an eye on your washing machine throughout the summer months, as warmer temperatures make mould growth more likely — though if you leave the door ajar and use white vinegar regularly, it should remain spotlessly clean.
