The damp environment inside a washing machine creates the perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew. Not only can this affect your health, but it’s also often the source of that musty smell – which can transfer onto your freshly washed clothes. In today’s post, we’ll show you how to spot mould in your washing machine, how to get rid of it using simple household products, and what you can do to prevent it from coming back.
Mould in your washing machine – How to tell if it’s there
The signs of mould in your washing machine are usually easy to spot. If you notice any warning signs, it’s important to act quickly. Mould and mildew can damage internal components, reduce washing performance, cause unpleasant odours, and even pose a health risk – particularly for people with allergies. So how can you tell if your washing machine has a mould problem?
Unpleasant smell coming from the washing machine
First things first – trust your nose. One of the earliest signs of mould is a musty, damp odour coming from inside the machine. It’s usually quite strong and easy to recognise.
Washing Smells Bad After a Cycle
Over time, your freshly washed clothes may start to smell less like laundry detergent and more like mildew. That stale, unpleasant scent means mould is likely transferring from the machine to your clothes – and it can be hard to get rid of.
Grey or Black Spots on the Door Seal
You might also notice visible mould in the detergent drawer or around the rubber door seal. It often appears as brown, grey or black specks – and in more advanced cases, large patches. If the mould is widespread, it can even trigger breathing problems or a feeling of tightness in the chest, particularly for those with allergies.
Mould in your washing machine – Home remedies that actually work
Getting rid of mould in your washing machine doesn’t have to be difficult. While there are plenty of specialist cleaning products available, you can tackle the problem effectively using simple household items. Here are a few tried-and-tested home remedies for removing mould and keeping your washing machine fresh and clean.
Removing Mould with Vinegar and Bleach
To clean mould from your washing machine, all you need is white vinegar and household bleach, such as Domestos.
How to do it:
Pour half a litre of white vinegar into the detergent drawer and run an empty wash on a hot cycle – ideally at 60°C or higher. Once the cycle is finished, pour bleach into the drawer and run another empty wash at a high temperature. This should clean the inside of the machine thoroughly. Next, clean the detergent drawer itself. Wipe it down with a cloth soaked in vinegar, and use an old toothbrush to scrub any hard-to-reach corners. Then take a closer look at the door seal. In the next section, we’ll explain how to remove mould from the rubber gasket effectively.
Cleaning the rubber seal with bicarbonate of soda or vinegar
The door seal – also known as the gasket – creates a watertight connection between the drum and the door. As it stays damp for long periods, it’s a common spot for mould to develop. To remove mould from the rubber seal, you can use white vinegar. Soak a cloth in vinegar and press it directly onto the affected area. Leave it for at least a few minutes, then scrub off the mould using a brush or the rough side of a sponge. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry the seal with a paper towel. Another effective method is to use bicarbonate of soda. Mix it with a little water to form a thick paste, then apply it to the mouldy area and leave it for several minutes. Scrub with a brush or sponge and rinse well with clean water. Make sure to dry the seal completely afterwards.
Using professional mould removal products
If you prefer, you can use specially formulated mould removers designed for washing machines. These are powerful chemical cleaners, so always follow the instructions carefully and take the recommended safety precautions, as they can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Another highly effective (but more expensive) solution is ozone cleaning. This method not only eliminates mould, but also kills bacteria, viruses, and allergens. However, it should only be carried out by a professional service provider.
Mould in the Washing Machine – How to Prevent It
Mould in your washing machine is usually the result of poor maintenance or incorrect use. The good news? By making a few simple changes to how you use and care for your machine, you can easily prevent mould from building up in the future.
Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly
Regular cleaning is key to preventing mould and mildew. Aim to clean your washing machine about once a month. You can use shop-bought cleaners or natural alternatives like white vinegar or bicarbonate of soda. Always run a hot wash – at least 60°C – to kill bacteria and remove residue.
Air Out the Drum After Every Wash
As mentioned earlier, damp conditions are ideal for mould to grow. Always leave the washing machine door open after each cycle to let moisture evaporate. Avoid closing the door straight away, as any remaining water won’t have a chance to dry.
Remove Laundry Immediately After the Cycle Ends
Don’t leave wet clothes sitting in the drum. Take your laundry out as soon as the cycle finishes – otherwise, you risk that musty smell clinging to your clothes.
Keep the Detergent Drawer Dry and Clean
The detergent drawer is one of the most overlooked areas – but it’s highly prone to mould. Leave it open between washes to help it dry out, and give it a regular clean to stop mould from taking hold.
Wipe the Rubber Seal Dry After Washing
After every wash – or at least every other wash – take a moment to wipe the rubber door seal dry. This is one of the most common areas where mould tends to build up, so keeping it moisture-free can make a big difference.
Mould Problem Too Far Gone? Here’s When to Call a Professional
If mould has been building up in your washing machine for years, it can cause deep staining and even damage to the rubber door seal – leaving marks and wear that no cleaning product can remove. In this case, the best solution is to replace the seal entirely. This is a job best left to a qualified technician, as improper fitting can lead to leaks and poor performance.
Summary
- Mould in your washing machine is usually easy to spot. One of the most common signs is a musty smell coming from the machine – which often transfers onto your clothes. You might also notice grey, brown or black spots in the detergent drawer or on the rubber door seal.
- If you suffer from allergies or have a sensitive respiratory system, mould can also cause breathing difficulties or a feeling of tightness in the chest.
- To remove mould, you can use specialist mould removers, professional ozone cleaning, or simple home remedies. White vinegar and bleach work well inside the drum. The detergent drawer can be cleaned with a vinegar-soaked cloth and a small brush. To clean the rubber seal, use vinegar and bicarbonate of soda.
- Prevention is key. Always take your laundry out straight after the wash, leave the door and detergent drawer open to air out, and regularly dry the rubber seal with a cloth. Most importantly, don’t forget to give your washing machine a deep clean at least once a month.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Is mould in a washing machine harmful?
Yes – mould can be harmful to your respiratory system, especially if you suffer from allergies or asthma. Long-term exposure to mould spores may also negatively affect brain function, as well as the kidneys and liver.
How do I remove mould from an automatic washing machine?
You can use professional mould removers or opt for ozone cleaning. However, we recommend trying home remedies using vinegar, bleach and bicarbonate of soda – they’re highly effective and budget-friendly.
What does mould in a washing machine look like?
Mould often appears as grey, brown or black spots or patches. It tends to form in the detergent drawer and around rubber parts, such as the door seal (gasket).
Why does mould form in washing machines?
Washing machines create a damp environment, which is perfect for mould to thrive. To prevent this, always air out the drum and detergent drawer after use, avoid leaving wet clothes inside the machine for hours, and wipe down the door seal after each wash. Don’t forget to clean the machine at least once a month.
How do I get rid of mould in my washing machine?
Pour half a cup of white vinegar into the detergent drawer and run an empty hot wash (at least 60°C). Once the cycle finishes, pour in some bleach and run another empty wash.
You should also clean the detergent drawer with a vinegar-soaked cloth. To remove mould from the rubber seal, use either vinegar or bicarbonate of soda.
Does washing at 60 degrees kill mould?
Yes – washing at 60°C helps disinfect the machine and kills mould, along with many bacteria and viruses.