Cleaning and maintaining the washing machine means it will last you a long time and save money in the long run.
An important part of this is keeping the appliance mould-free, which is a common sight in washing machines.
It can often grow around the seal, where dirt and moisture get trapped.
If not removed, mould may end up in your washing, and it may become less efficient.
Mould experts at Advanced Damp have shared five tips to get rid of mould from your machine.
1. Leave the door open
After every wash, the inside of your washing machine can get warm and damp, a perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew.
To combat this, simply leave the door open. The experts said: “Always leave the washing machine door open after each use, as it helps it to dry out quicker and reduces moisture, which in turn keeps your washer mould-free.”
2. Wipe off the seals and inside surfaces
After a wash, your washing machine’s nasty seals and insides build up condensation. If this isn’t left to air out, it may turn to mould.
The pros noted: “Give the inside of the door a quick wipe with a cloth after each use, especially if you don’t use your machine daily.”
3. Clean every few months and check the filter
To keep your washer in tip-top condition and make it last longer, clean it regularly and check the filter.
The experts explained: “The ideal routine for cleaning your washing machine would be to clean the rubber door seal after each use, clean the detergent drawer every five washes and descale your washing machine once a month.
“Make sure to also clean the filter and give the machine a good scrub every one to three months.
“You can also set your machine on a hot wash with a cup of white vinegar in to freshen it up and remove any unpleasant smells.”
4. Remove wet clothes right away
Try to avoid leaving wet laundry in the machine for extended periods, especially overnight.
This could lead to a build-up of mould, which may result in unpleasant odours and damage.
5. Don’t use too much detergent
The mould pros continued: “Using too much detergent won’t get your clothes any cleaner, but leave residue on them instead.
“Make sure to always follow the instructions on dosages for liquids, powders and capsules.”