A washing machine is a staple for keeping a home clean. Without them laundry piles up and then you have to go spend a lot of money at a laundromat. However, just because a machine is used for cleaning does not mean it cannot be susceptible to unclean harm. In this scenario, we are talking about mold.
Mold can sometimes be a problem for a washing machine. Getting rid of mold can be tricky, especially in a large washing machine. The sad fact is that a washing machine can be a perfect breeding ground for mold if it is left unchecked. Fortunately, it is not an impossible task. Here is everything that you need to know to be able to tell if there is mold in your washing machine and how to get it out.
How to Tell If Your Washing Machine Has Mold
The Smell
If you have recently stopped to ask “Why does my washing machine smell like mold?” then you will probably not be surprised to find out it's because there's mold. If you are not familiar with what mold smells like, it is a pungent, musty smell.
Think of the odor in an old basement or attic that has not been set foot in a while and amplify the smell. That is what mold smells like when it starts to grow. That smell is usually your first indicator that there is mold growing in your washing machine if you do not see any first. The same applies to every wet room in your home. Even your toilet must be cleaned regularly due to potential mold growth.
The Sights
If there is mold in your washing machine, it will not be long before the mold makes itself visually known. Mold appears, typically, as a dark, splotchy substance. It can sometimes take on a dark blue or dark green appearance. In its earliest stages it has a white coloration, but it is harder to detect at that stage.
Tools You Will Need
If you want to get rid of mold in your washing machine then you're going to need the right tools Here they are as follows:
- Rubber Gloves
- Protective Eye-wear
- Large Plastic Bucket
- Scrub Brush
- Chlorine Bleach
- Spray Bottle
How to Get Rid of Mold in a Top-Loading Washing Machine
Clean Removable Components
The first thing you want to do is remove any removable components. If there is a removable component for pouring fabric softener, for example, remove it. Anything that can be cleaned separately should be cleaned separately. You want to take those components to a sink and spray them with a solution of bleach and water. You want one cup of bleach for every gallon of water.
After the solution has been allowed to set on the components for 10-15 minutes you will be ready to start scrubbing them down. Scrubbing them will lift the dead mold off of the components. Once the dead mold has been scrubbed off you need to rinse off the components. Once they have been rinsed you need to wipe them down with a dry towel and then set them aside to finish drying.
Clean the Seal and Lid
Inspect the lid of the washing machine. There is a good chance, if there is mold growth, that there will be at least some on the lid and the sealing. To kill the mold on this part of the washing machine, apply the bleach solution generously on the surface. Let the solution set for 10 to 15 minutes. Then scrub it down, scrubbing up any mold. Then spray it down with water and rinse it off. Ensure you clean well around the inner edges of the sealing strips.
Cleaning the Body
To clean out the body of your washing machine, you need to set your washing machine for a full load. Put the water on the “hot” setting. Add one cup of chlorine bleach to your washing cycle. If you do not want to use chlorine bleach, you can substitute it with a cup of hydrogen peroxide. Whatever you do, however, do not mix bleach with hydrogen peroxide or vinegar, as that will result in toxic fumes.
You then want to begin a regular cycle. The cleaning solution that you have chosen should handle any of the mold that could be in the drainage and water lines. Once the cycle is finished, it would not hurt to rinse out the interior of the washer and to then give it a thorough drying with a dry towel.
Cleaning the Lint Filter
Almost every washing machine is equipped with a lint filter. If you are having trouble locating the lint filter, then look up the model of your washing machine. Once you have located your washing machine, you can remove it. Clean away any lint that is stuck to it and throw it away. Then, place the filter in a sink or bowl with your cleaning solution for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove it and begin to clean it with your scrub brush. Then rinse it off and allow for it to dry before returning it to the washer.
How to Get Rid of Mold in a Front-Load Washer
The process for getting rid of mold in your front-load washer is very similar to getting rid of it in a top-loading washer. There are some small differences, however.
Clean Removable Components
As with the top-loading washer, you need to remove any removable components and use the same cleaning process.
Cleaning the Door Gasket
A front-loading washer will have a flexible rubber ring in the opening. This is the door gasket. You should be able to reach beneath the gasket. Make sure to spray it down with your cleaning solution and allow it to set for 10 to 15 minutes. Then use your scrub brush and scrub all of the dead mold out. Then rinse the area with your rinsing water and wipe it down thoroughly with a dry towel.
How to Prevent Mold In Your Washing Machine
Leave the door/lid and tray open
One of the biggest threats to mold is fresh air, and keeping your door, lid, and tray open on your washing machine will keep it routinely introduced to fresh air. It will also allow you the chance to monitor the washing machine for mold growth more regularly.
Use the Self-Clean Cycle
This almost goes without saying, but if you use your washer's self-clean cycle you can prevent the stagnated conditions leading to mold growth in washing machines.
Use a Laundry Detergent specifically designed for mold
You can actually decrease your chances of having to deal with mold in your washing machine by using a detergent that has additives designed to prevent mold growth. This product, in particular, is effective.
