Mold growth in washing machines is a common issue that can happen due to the damp, warm environment. While not inherently dangerous, mold should be removed to prevent musty odors and potential fabric damage. Cleaning mold out of a washing machine is an involved but doable task for most homeowners. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to thoroughly clean mold out of a washing machine.
Supplies Needed
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Liquid chlorine bleach
- Old towels
- Rubber gloves
- Eye protection
- Mask
- Scrub brush
- Vacuum
Preparation
Before cleaning, unplug the washing machine and turn off the water supply. Clear out any clothing or debris. Put on gloves, eye protection and a mask to protect yourself from mold spores and cleaning chemicals. Ventilate the room if possible.
Inspect and Clean Exterior
- Open the washing machine lid and inspect the inside drums, rim, dispenser drawer and door seal for mold.
- Check under the rubber door seal for mold growth. This is a common spot.
- If mold is present, wipe down all exterior surfaces with white vinegar first. Scrub with a brush and rinse with water.
- Use straight vinegar or a vinegar-water solution. Vinegar helps kill mold and mildew.
- Dry all surfaces thoroughly with a towel.
Clean Inside Drum
- Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly into the empty drum. Baking soda can help absorb odors and lift dirt.
- Add about 2 cups of white vinegar directly into drum over top of the baking soda.
- Let sit for 20-30 minutes. The vinegar and baking soda will activate and fizz, helping lift mold and stains.
- After time has passed, run a rinse cycle while empty. No detergent.
- If mold stains or residue remain, repeat as needed.
Disinfect With Bleach
- To thoroughly disinfect, fill drum with water to a low/medium level.
- Add 1 cup of liquid chlorine bleach.
- Run a full wash cycle while empty on the hottest setting.
- Bleach will kill any leftover mold spores or bacteria.
- Optionally, repeat a short bleach soak and rinse if machine was very dirty.
- After bleaching, always run a normal wash cycle with laundry to rinse any residual bleach.
Clean Dispenser Drawer
- The detergent and softener dispenser drawer is prone to mold growth.
- Pull out drawer completely and give a thorough cleaning.
- Rinse under hot water and scrub with an old toothbrush if needed.
- Allow to dry fully before replacing drawer.
Dry Thoroughly
- After deep cleaning, leave the door open and allow all areas to dry completely for at least 24 hours.
- This prevents new mold growth.
- Optionally, place a fan nearby to speed up drying time.
Maintenance To Prevent Mold
- Keep door propped open between washes so interior can dry.
- Use bleach in an empty load 1-2 times per month.
- Immediately wipe any visible moisture.
- Clean dispenser drawer monthly.
- Leave detergent drawer open after use to dry out.
- Use leave-in affresh monthly cleaner or other washing machine cleaner monthly.
When to Call a Professional
If the mold growth is extensive or recurring, or you see evidence of a leak allowing moisture inside, it likely requires professional repair. Contact an appliance repair company to assess the situation.
FAQs About Removing Mold from a Washing Machine
How do you know if your washing machine has mold?
Signs of mold in a washer include black spots or dirt, musty odors coming from the machine, staining on clothes after washing, and visible mold growth around the door seal or dispenser.
What is the best cleaner to remove mold from washing machine?
White vinegar, baking soda, and bleach are the most effective homemade solutions. Vinegar kills mold, baking soda lifts stains, and bleach disinfects. Always avoid mixing different cleaners, which can create toxic fumes.
Does washing with bleach get rid of mold?
Bleach is an effective disinfectant against mold in washing machines. After deep cleaning, run an empty bleach cycle to sanitize all areas and kill any remaining spores. Always follow with a regular wash cycle before doing laundry again.
Can you remove washing machine mold without bleach?
Yes, you can clean washing machine mold without bleach by using vinegar, baking soda, and hot water. However, bleach ensures any traces of mold are killed, so it provides the most thorough clean.
Why does my washing machine smell musty?
A musty odor usually indicates mold or mildew buildup inside the washer. Rubber seals and dispenser drawers commonly harbor hidden mold growth. Thoroughly cleaning all areas with vinegar and bleach should eliminate odors.
How do you clean mold from washing machine gasket?
Use white vinegar and scrub with an old toothbrush to clean the rubber door gasket. Remove any debris trapped inside and allow to dry fully after cleaning before running the machine again. Bleach soak can also sanitize the gasket.
Conclusion
Mold growth is a common washing machine problem, but with some natural cleaners and elbow grease, it can be safely removed. Always take proper safety precautions against the chemicals and mold spores. Make it the last load before running a full bleach cycle to kill any remaining spores. Implementing preventive monthly maintenance will help keep mold from recurring. With regular upkeep, front load and top load washers can stay fresh and mold-free.