Leaving the washing machine door open after every use is the most effective way to prevent mould from forming in the drum and rubber seal, according to appliance specialists at Beko.
The Office for National Statistics reports that the average UK household carries out around 260 loads of laundry each year. With this in mind, Beko recommends that washing machines should be cleaned after every four to five uses.
For a washing machine to effectively clean clothes and other items, the appliance itself must be kept clean and free from the risk of mould. Regular cleaning is essential, as washing machines provide the ideal breeding ground for mould.
Why mould forms after a wash cycle
Once a cycle finishes, the drum remains warm and damp, while residual moisture, detergent build-up, and poor airflow create the perfect conditions for mould spores to settle and spread.
When the washing machine door is left shut after a cycle, humidity becomes trapped inside the drum, the rubber seal, and the detergent drawer. Over time, soap residue fuels mould growth, resulting in the grey-black staining and musty smell that will be all too familiar to many households.
How to prevent mould from taking over your washing machine
According to appliance specialists at Beko, the solution is straightforward. They advise improving airflow around the washing machine.
The experts said: "Leaving the door ajar after every wash cycle is one of the most effective ways to prevent mould. Airflow dries out the drum and the rubber seal before mould spores can settle. Even cracking the door a few centimetres makes a measurable difference."
To further improve conditions, experts suggest positioning a small fan close by to accelerate drying time inside the washing machine between cycles.
What should you do if your washing machine develops unpleasant odours?
Unpleasant smells from washing machines stem from mould and bacteria thriving in the drum, door seal and detergent drawer. Eliminating the smell requires removing the conditions that enable it to flourish.
Restore freshness to your washing machine by initially running an empty cycle at 60C or 90C without laundry or detergent, once monthly. Pour 250ml of white vinegar into the drum before a maintenance wash for additional odour management. Wipe the door seal dry following every use and consistently leave the door open between washes.
