Removing Mould From Your Washing Machine | Cillit Bang UK
Removing mould from your washing machine
If your freshly washed clothes aren’t smelling fresh after being washed, then mould in your washing machine may be the culprit. Fear not! It's a common issue, particularly for busy family households with lots of full laundry baskets and can be tackled effectively with simple cleaning. If this problem is affecting you, follow our practical tips and recommendations, so you can regain peace of mind and maintain a healthy environment. Let's dive in and find out how to combat mould in your washing machine with ease and confidence.
Identifying the presence of mould in your washing machine
There are many telltale signs that you can look out for to identify whether or not there is mould growing in your washing machine, but it’s worth noting that it’s not uncommon to find black mould in the washing machine seal. Just, ensure you take a close look at your appliance, including the lid, detergent drawer, inside the machine, and any other crevice you can find. Mould comes in all sorts of colours, shapes and textures, so look for anything that doesn’t look normal.
If you can’t find any visible mould, it doesn’t necessarily mean there isn’t a problem. Growth can occur over a long period of time and some particles may be too small to see. If this is the case, you’ll need to rely on your sense of smell. If you notice a damp, musty, earthy smell in your washing machine, then it’s likely you have mould growing somewhere.
Why mould grows in washing machines
It’s simply a combination of warmth, moisture, and organic material. Mould is most common in areas that stay damp between uses, which encourages its growth and spreading. Black mould in the washing machine is very common and can be dangerous if inhaled, ingested or touched. As it’s known to trigger a range of health issues, including allergic reactions and respiratory infections, removing black mould properly is important.
How to get rid of mould in a washing machine
Once you’ve identified that you have a mould problem in your washing machine, it’s time to remove it. Mould can appear in all areas of the machine, but the most common areas for black mould growth are the seal, detergent drawer, and the main drum itself.
To clean all these areas, you’ll need a clean cloth or sponge, and Cillit Bang Expert Black Mould Remover. The powerful formula is effective without the need to scrub. It combines cleaning agents and disinfectants to get rid of up to 100% of black mould.*
- Turn the nozzle to the "ON" position. Keep the trigger straight, 20 cm from the surface, then spray.
- Leave for 5 minutes to kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, and 15 minutes to eliminate black mould.
- Clean, rinse and dry the surface. Finally, return the nozzle to the "OFF" position. Store the bottle in an upright position.
*Visible black mould.
Preventing mould in your washing machine
Now that you’ve successfully cleaned your machine and have removed the mould, you’re naturally going to want to know how to prevent it from growing again in the future. Regular maintenance is key—follow these practical tips and suggestions to keep your machine clean:
Wipe down the seal after each use
After each wash, take a moment to wipe down the washing machine seal with a clean cloth or sponge. This will remove any excess moisture and detergent residue, preventing the growth of mould.
Clean the drawer every once in a while
Remove any excess detergent or fabric softener residue after each use. Additionally, consider leaving the drawer open when the washing machine is not in use to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
Leave the door open
This will allow air circulation and help the drum dry completely between uses, reducing the chances of mould formation.
Run a monthly maintenance cycle
Once a month, run an empty hot water cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a mixture of water and white vinegar. This will help remove any lingering mould or bacteria and keep your machine fresh and clean.
Use the right detergent
A high-quality detergent designed for washing machines can help prevent the buildup of residue and mould. Look for products that are specifically formulated to combat mould and mildew.
Avoid overloading
A full washing machine can lead to poor drainage and insufficient air circulation, creating an environment conducive to mould growth.
Identifying the cause of persistent mould problems
While following the previous steps can effectively eliminate mould in most cases, you may be wondering why your washing machine’s mould issues are recurring. To find out why, it's important to address the underlying causes and consider seeking professional assistance if necessary.
Persistent mould growth may be a sign of other issues, such as water leaks, improper ventilation, or a malfunctioning washing machine. Inspect your machine thoroughly and check for any signs of leaks or ventilation problems. If you notice any issues, it's best to consult a professional for further checks and repairs.