How to prevent mould in washing machines for good with 3-second task | Express.co.uk

Mould loves to cling to many places around the home, particularly when it comes to washing machines. These appliances hold a lot of moisture around the door and detergent drawer, which can encourage bacteria and eventually mould. Mould inside a washing machine will affect how well your laundry is washed, which will cause it to smell musty and be less hygienic.

Fed up of always finding mould in her washing machine, Fenella Bestwick took to Mumsnet to ask for cleaning advice. She said: “I've just spent the afternoon with a black mould remover, applying and reapplying to get rid of all the black mould on my washing machine seal.

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“I don't understand how it gets so mouldy, as I already leave the machine door permanently wide open to air it. I'm worried about the rubber degrading over time. How do you prevent this?”

Cleaning fans recommended that Fenella open both the washing machine drawer and door, but most importantly, wipe them down.

User Stst said: “Always leave the door and soap drawer open (even slightly) between washes, then wipe them down. Stops mould totally. Gamechanger. Thank you, Phil the plumber, who taught me that.”

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User Horses7 wrote: “Wipe seal and drawer immediately after with kitchen roll and leave door/drawer open to thoroughly dry. Mine is four years old and no mould.”

User IBegYourBigestPardon commented: “Leave the door open after each use, then spend three seconds wiping those two areas down. Mine's coming up five years old now, and the seal is immaculate.”

User Gilead said: “I take a few seconds to pat down the door seal and the drawer after every wash. Never any mould.”

For those looking to remove mould that’s already taken over their rubber door seal, cleaning pros at Smol have the perfect natural solution - vinegar.

They said: “Did you know that vinegar kills mould more effectively than bleach? Bleach only kills mould spores on the surface of affected materials, whereas vinegar can penetrate porous materials, killing mould at its root.”

For this method, mix equal parts warm water and clear vinegar, then, using your cloth, apply to the seal. Rub the solution into the mould and leave for 15 minutes. Finish by rinsing the solution off with a damp cloth and clean warm water.