Mold in your washing machine can leave your clothes with an unpleasant, musty odor, but fear not. I’ll show you how to clean mold from your washing machine and prevent it from returning.
According to Richard Reid of Universal Restoration of North Florida in Jacksonville, areas with high humidity, like the laundry room, are most susceptible to mold. And no, that smell isn’t going away: “The longer it sits, the worse it gets,” he cautions. So, let’s learn how to get rid of the mold and get your clothes and machine fresh and clean once again.
Signs of Mold in Your Washing Machine
Mold in your washing machine is a common but manageable problem. While it’s most often found with front-loading washers, top-loading machines are susceptible to mold, too. Here are the key signs to watch for:
- Funky odors: Musty or mildew smells that linger after washing cycles or on freshly washed clothes.
- Black spots: Dark patches or discoloration on the door seal.
- Visible growth: Mold patches in the detergent drawer or rubber gaskets.
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Cleaning Supplies You’ll Need
You can make your own cleaning solution or use a store-bought mold and mildew remover. If you choose the DIY route, most items you’ll need are common household products you may already have on hand.
Here are a few DIY cleaning options:
- Vinegar: Undiluted in a spray bottle.
- Bleach solution: Mix 1/3 cup bleach with 1 gallon of water.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Undiluted in a spray bottle.
Safety Tip: Never mix cleaning products, especially vinegar, bleach, or hydrogen peroxide, as this can create dangerous fumes.
Tools and supplies:
- Clean microfiber cloths or paper towels
- Rubber gloves
- N95 or respirator mask
- Old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush
- Spray bottle (if you make your own cleaning solution)
Quick Tip: Always wear rubber gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. When dealing with visible mold, wear an N95 or respirator mask for protection from the spores.
How to Clean Washing Machine Mold
Follow these steps to remove mold from your washing machine. Keep children and pets away during the cleaning process, especially if using chemical-based cleaners, as they are often more sensitive to them and mold spores.
1. Clean the Gasket and Seals
For front-loading machines, focus on the rubber door gasket, where mold commonly grows.
For top-loading machines, clean around the top rim and lid area.
- Thoroughly spray the cleaning solution onto the gasket.
- Scrub inside all folds and crevices using a cloth or brush.
- Focus on the bottom section where water collects.
- Use a clean microfiber cloth to dry the area completely.
Check out the following video showing how to clean the boot seal with vinegar and dryer sheets.
2. Clean the Dispenser Drawers
For front-loading machines, remove and clean the detergent and fabric softener dispensers.
For top-loading machines, clean the fabric softener dispenser in your agitator.
- Remove all dispensers from the machine (if removable).
- Spray thoroughly with a cleaning solution.
- Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes to dissolve any mold and buildup.
- Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth until completely dry.
The following video shows you how to clean a top-loading washing machine, especially areas on the machine where mold and grime can hide.
3. Clean the Drum
For all washing machines, run a thorough cleaning cycle:
- Add 1 cup of cleaning solution to the detergent dispenser or spray the inside of the drum thoroughly.
- Select the hottest water temperature setting.
- Run the cleaning cycle (if applicable on your machine) or a regular wash cycle.
- Wipe the drum with a clean microfiber cloth when the cycle is complete.
Quick Tip: Run an empty rinse cycle to remove any cleaning solution residue before doing laundry.
Why Mold Grows in Washing Machines
Mold thrives in washing machines due to the constant moisture, warm temperatures, and residue from dirt and soap. Front-loading machines are especially susceptible because their airtight door seal traps moisture inside.
Mold Prevention Tips
Monthly cleaning and following these few simple steps can help prevent mold growth and extend your washing machine’s life:
- Keep the door or lid open between washes to promote airflow.
- Remove wet laundry within 30 minutes.
- For high-efficiency models, only use HE detergent.
- Run a cleaning cycle with hot water and bleach once a month.
- Measure detergent carefully to prevent residue buildup.
- Opt for an extra spin cycle to remove excess water, especially with heavier items.
What if my Washing Machine Still Smells After Cleaning It?
If the funk continues to return even after scrubbing your washer, here are a few more things to try:
- Leave the door open: More air circulation can prevent moisture buildup and odor.
- Run hot water cycle: You can eliminate bacteria and combat odors by adding a cup of white vinegar and running the machine empty on a normal cycle.
- Check the drainage system: If your machine isn’t draining all the way, this can be the source of lingering odors. Check your manual on how to drain and clean this system.
- Clean drain pump filter: The drain pump filter is typically located at the bottom front of front-load washing machines behind a small access panel. Top-load machines usually have it in the agitator if there is no panel. You should be able to remove it and simply rinse it off.
- Call the pros: If the problem continues after all your efforts, it’s recommended you contact an appliance repair tech, mold remediation expert, or a plumber near you to find the underlying problem.
The good news? DIY solutions are usually effective for removing mold on non-porous surfaces like a washing machine drum. As Reid notes, “When mold begins to grow on any non-porous surface made of metal or plastic, it can be wiped with a basic antimicrobial solution.”
But if you suspect the mold is widespread, Reid wisely advises, “It’s always a good idea to have a professional come and give an opinion before trying a DIY treatment plan” just to be safe.
Keep Your Washer Mold-Free
Prevent mold from making your washing machine its home. With regular cleaning and care, you’ll keep your washer fresh, efficient, and mold-free. Following this guide isn’t just about cleaning, it’s an investment in your machine’s longevity and in a healthier, fungi-free home.
If you have a problem with mold anywhere in your home, it is important to address it as soon as possible to prevent any health issues and avoid lingering odors.
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