The washing machine, an indispensable household appliance, can unfortunately become a breeding ground for mold. The damp environment, detergent residue, and insufficient air circulation create ideal conditions for fungal growth. Experts share proven methods for cleaning mold from your washing machine and offer valuable advice on creating a healthy atmosphere in the room where it’s located.
Step 1: Simple and Effective Methods for Cleaning Mold from Your Washing Machine
Specialists recommend starting the fight against mold with readily available household items before resorting to harsh chemicals.
- Vinegar and Baking Soda – A Trusted Solution: The combination of these household staples demonstrates high effectiveness in combating mold and is known for its safety.
- Experts advise pouring 1-2 cups of ordinary white vinegar into the empty drum of the washing machine.
- Next, run the longest wash cycle at the maximum hot water temperature.
- After the first cycle is complete, add about half a cup of baking soda to the drum and run a short wash cycle at a high temperature.
- An important step is to ventilate the drum after washing – the machine door should be left open.
- Chlorine Bleach – A Powerful Weapon (Use with Caution!): Specialists acknowledge the effectiveness of chlorine bleach in killing mold but emphasize the need to strictly adhere to safety precautions.
- It is recommended to pour ½ — 1 cup of liquid chlorine bleach into the detergent dispenser, cautioning against mixing it with other chemical substances.
- Then, run the hottest and longest wash cycle.
- Following this, an additional full wash cycle without any detergent is mandatory to thoroughly remove any bleach residue.
- Ventilating the drum after treatment is an integral part of the process.
- Specialized Washing Machine Cleaners: A wide range of products specifically designed for effectively cleaning washing machines from various contaminants, including mold, are available on the market. Experts recommend using such cleaners, strictly following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Pay Special Attention to the Rubber Gasket: Specialists point out that the folds of the door’s rubber gasket are one of the most vulnerable spots for mold accumulation.
- For cleaning, it is recommended to use a solution of equal parts water and vinegar or specialized mold removal products.
- Thoroughly cleaning all folds and crevices of the gasket using an old toothbrush or cloth is a key step.
- The process concludes by wiping the gasket dry with a clean cloth.
- Cleaning the Detergent Dispenser – An Important Aspect: Experts remind us of the need to regularly clean the detergent dispenser, where dirt and mold can also accumulate.
- The dispenser should be removed from the machine and rinsed under hot running water using detergent and a brush.
- Before reinserting, the dispenser must be thoroughly dried.
Step 2: Creating a Healthy Environment to Prevent Mold Growth
Experts emphasize that to prevent the recurrence of mold, it is necessary to create conditions in the room that are unfavorable for its growth.
- Ensure Adequate Ventilation: Specialists consider sufficient air circulation a key factor in combating humidity, mold’s primary ally. It is recommended to regularly ventilate the room after washing or use an exhaust fan.
- Control the Humidity Level in the Room: In cases of high humidity, experts advise considering the use of a dehumidifier.
- Prevent Water Accumulation: It is necessary to ensure that puddles or water accumulation do not form around the washing machine, and any spilled liquids should be cleaned up promptly.
- Regularly Clean Surfaces: Specialists recommend regularly wiping surfaces around the washing machine with a damp cloth to remove dust and potential mold spores.
- Use Moisture-Resistant Materials During Renovation: When planning bathroom renovations, experts advise giving preference to moisture-resistant finishing materials, which have increased resistance to mold growth.
By following these expert recommendations, you can not only effectively clean mold from your washing machine but also create a healthier and more comfortable atmosphere in your home, minimizing the risk of its reappearance. Regular care and maintaining optimal conditions in the room are the key to the long-term and trouble-free operation of your washing machine.