Regularly cleaning mold from your washing machine is essential to prevent it from becoming a persistent and unpleasant issue. Factors such as warm temperatures, soil and bacteria from clothes, detergent and fabric softener residue, and dark, damp environments can create the perfect conditions for mold growth.
This is particularly common in high-efficiency front-loading washers. Using bleach is the most effective method to sanitize your machine.
Key areas to focus on include the rubber gasket, detergent dispensers, drainage pipes, and filters.
Continue reading to discover step-by-step instructions on using bleach to remove mold from your washing machine.
What You’ll Need
Tools and Equipment:
- Microfiber cloth
- Sink or large plastic bucket
- Small, soft-bristled scrub brush
- Protective gloves
Materials:
- Chlorine bleach
Step-by-Step Instructions for Removing Mold
- Prepare the Washer:
- Empty the Machine: Ensure the washer is completely empty to avoid accidental bleaching of your clothes.
- Check Dispensers: If your washer has automatic detergent or fabric softener dispensers, make sure they are free of any product residue.
- Adjust Washer Settings:
- Select the Cycle: Choose a normal wash cycle with a large load setting to ensure ample water flow.
- Set Temperature: Opt for warm or hot water to effectively combat mold.
- Add Chlorine Bleach:
- Pour Bleach: Add one cup or more of chlorine bleach directly into the drum. Alternatively, pour ½ cup of liquid chlorine bleach into the detergent compartment of the dispenser drawer and fill the bleach compartment to the maximum level.
- Start the Cycle: Begin the wash cycle and allow it to complete fully. Running a cycle with just hot water and bleach will typically eliminate mold from the drainage lines.
- Alternative to Bleach: If you prefer not to use chlorine bleach, substitute with one full cup of hydrogen peroxide. Do not mix hydrogen peroxide with chlorine bleach, as this combination can produce toxic fumes.
- Clean the Washer Drum and Door:
- Dry the Area: Once the cycle finishes, use a soft, absorbent cloth to dry the washer door and gaskets.
- Front-Load Specifics: For front-loading washers, gently pull back the flexible door gasket to access and clean the interior, where dirt and detergent residue often accumulate.
- Cleaning Solution: Wearing protective gloves, dip a microfiber cloth or soft-bristled brush in a mixture of ¼ cup chlorine bleach and 2 cups of water. Use this solution to thoroughly clean the gasket area. After removing all mold, dry the area with a soft cloth.
- Clean the Dispenser System:
- Remove Drawers: Refer to your washer’s user manual to safely remove the detergent and fabric softener drawers.
- Rinse Drawers: Rinse the drawer inserts with hot tap water to eliminate residue. For heavy buildup, soak the drawers in hot water for 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly and allowing them to air dry.
- Clean the Housing: Using a cloth or soft-bristled brush dipped in the bleach-water solution, clean the dispenser housing inside the washer.
- Reassemble: Once clean, return the bleach and fabric softener inserts to their designated compartments, replace the dispenser drawer, and run a short cycle without any laundry or cleaning products to ensure the system is fully flushed.
- Clean the Lint Filter:
- Locate the Filter: Most washers have a lint filter or trap that should be cleaned regularly to prevent mold and odors.
- Remove and Clean: Take out the filter, brush away any lint with a soft-bristled brush, and wipe away any mold using a cloth dipped in the bleach-water solution.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the filter thoroughly, allow it to air dry, and then reinstall it in the washer.
Preventing Mold Growth in Your Washing Machine
1. Use the Correct Amount of Detergent:
- Avoid Excess: Using too much laundry detergent can leave residues that trap dirt and bacteria, fostering mold and mildew growth.
- Washer Cleaners: Consider using commercial washer cleaners available in tablet, powder, or liquid forms. Follow the package instructions carefully for best results.
2. Skip Fabric Softeners:
- Residue Issues: Fabric softeners can leave residues that encourage mold growth.
- Alternative: Reduce or eliminate the use of liquid fabric softeners. Instead, use distilled white vinegar to help remove detergent residue and naturally soften clothes.
3. Enhance Ventilation and Reduce Humidity:
- Improve Airflow: Add a fan or air conditioner to your laundry area to increase air circulation and help the washer dry more quickly.
- Dehumidifiers: Consider using a dehumidifier to maintain lower humidity levels.
- Door Management: Leave the door of your front-loading washer open after each use to allow the interior to dry thoroughly.
4. Maintain Washer and Dryer:
- Clean the Fan: Ensure the fan in your front-load washer is clean and functioning correctly.
- Check Vents: Verify that the dryer vent is secure and not leaking moist air into the laundry room.
- Regular Drying: Wipe the door gasket inside and out with a microfiber towel after each laundry cycle.
- Routine Cleaning: Run a cleaning cycle in your washer weekly or at least monthly to maintain cleanliness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What causes mold in a washing machine?
- Residue Build-Up: Laundry products can leave residues inside the drum and door, trapping soil and bacteria that serve as ideal nourishment for mold.
- Environmental Conditions: Dark, damp environments within the washer further promote mold growth.
2. What is the best product to remove mold from a washing machine?
- Chlorine Bleach: Chlorine bleach is the most effective mold remover for washing machines.
- Alternative Option: If you are sensitive to chlorine bleach, hydrogen peroxide can be used as a substitute. Important: Do not mix hydrogen peroxide with chlorine bleach, as this can produce toxic fumes.
3. How can I prevent mold from developing in my washing machine?
- Moderate Laundry Products: Avoid using excessive amounts of laundry detergents and fabric softeners.
- Improve Ventilation: Enhance air circulation and reduce humidity in your laundry area.
- Regular Maintenance: Clean your washer routinely to prevent mold and mildew buildup.
4. Is vinegar as effective as bleach for removing mold in a washing machine?
- Preventive Use: While vinegar is not as potent as bleach for removing existing mold, it can be used regularly to prevent mold growth.
- Treatment of Mold: For active mold issues, bleach is more effective.
- Safety Note: Never mix vinegar with bleach, as combining these substances can create harmful toxic fumes.
By following these detailed steps and preventive measures, you can ensure your washing machine remains mold-free, operates efficiently, and maintains fresh-smelling laundry.
