3 Ways to Keep Your Washing Machine Mold Free

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

You rely on the washing machine in your home to turn your dirty laundry into fresh and clean clothes. However, like all household appliances, your machine needs to be well maintained to prevent problems from occurring. While it may seem unnecessary to clean an appliance that already does the cleaning for you, failing to do so can cause mold to crop up in your unit. Here are some helpful guidelines for taking proper care of your appliance and keeping mold damage at bay.

Leave the Door Open

During a typical wash cycle, your appliance uses multiple gallons of water to thoroughly clean your clothing. This means that there are still traces of moisture left in the machine even after the cycle is over. To prevent this moisture from building up and leading to mold growth, always leave the washing machine door open after you’re done with a full load. This can help the unit dry out faster and more effectively.

Clean the Gasket

The machine’s gasket, which is the circular rubber flap that wraps around the inside of the door, is a major breeding ground for mold. If you ever notice a mold smell coming from your unit, there’s a good chance that it originated from under the gasket. Be sure to clean this part of your machine at least once a month to prevent water buildup that can create mold.

Clean the Detergent Drawer

To keep your detergent drawer free of mold, make sure to do the following:

• Remove it from the machine
• Soak it in hot water
• Thoroughly remove any traces of mold
• Rinse and let it dry completely
  

You can use a toothbrush to pry mold out of all the nooks and crannies in the detergent drawer. Make sure the drawer is completely dry and clean before putting it back in place.
If you notice a mold smell coming from your washing machine, don’t wait!