Washing machines, while essential household appliances regularly in use, require consistent cleaning to remain operational and mould-free. Moisture accumulation around the door seal or within the drum creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and mould.
Mould in your washing machine can seriously degrade laundry quality, inducing a musty odour and making clothes less sanitary. Thankfully, Lisa—a savvy mum and founder of Move Mama Move—asserts that mould prevention takes merely five seconds post-wash.
How do you prevent washing machine mould?
Simply keep the door and the detergent drawer ajar following each wash cycle. This stops moisture from accumulating which should stop mould growth.
Minimising humidity is crucial. To do so, open a window, leave a door open, or use an exhaust fan—these measures significantly cut down room dampness, reports the Express.
Though it might be tempting, avoid leaving damp laundry in the machine overnight; this common oversight can rapidly escalate mould spread.
Lisa cautions: “All it takes is 24 hours on a surface with moisture and edible options for a mould spore to grow.”
How do you clean a washing machine?
Make it a weekly task—this routine will clear out any lingering grime, soap scum, and residual detergent that mould could feast upon.
Ditch the expensive mould-busting cleaners, because humble white vinegar is a real hero in the fight against mould, boasting antibacterial properties capable of knocking out those pesky spores.
Lisa advises: “Place white vinegar in the spray bottle. Pull out the detergent tray and soak in vinegar for at least half an hour.
“Spray the entire washing machine down, including the inside of the drum, the rubber gasket, the lid, and any other part you can reach.”
For a thorough washing machine cleanse, just pour 240ml of white vinegar into the drum and run a hot wash. To keep your machine in top condition, undertake this simple procedure monthly.
