Mould is something that all households are hit with – especially in locations like the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room if they have one. Over time, it can build up and look unsightly – and more importantly, cause health issues.
In one Reddit thread, a resident asked for help to clear mould out of a washing machine. The asked: “Hello everyone, I’m currently renting and our washing machine sends to have a sulphur smell to it while running and also has mould on the seal and I believe on the inside of the seal as you can see water pools up on the inside of it as well. What would be the easiest way to remove this and any potential mould in places I can’t get to without damaging the machine?”
There is one everyday kitchen item which most agreed was the best thing – vinegar. One said: ““While it is possible to use bleach to kill mould as well, experts agree that vinegar is a much better option. Unlike bleach, vinegar can effectively kill the mould at the root, which means it’s less likely to return. Vinegar is also less toxic than bleach, making it a better choice for household use.”
Preventing mould growth and cleaning a laundry room are essential for maintaining a healthy environment, as well as keeping clothes looking good and appliances functioning properly. Experts say to remove mould from the rubber seal on your washing machine where necessary, too, by using a specialised mildew remover or vinegar, running a sanitising cycle on your washing machine with a DIY washing machine cleaner, and using a baking soda paste to remove mould spores and clean a washing machine that smells. When letting the baking soda paste sit on the seals, sprinkle some loose powder into the drum and allow it to rest for up to an hour to absorb musty odours.
Prevention is always better than cure, and it is relatively simple to keep your machine mould-free. Simply ensure the machine dries out thoroughly between uses.
Five warning signs of mould
- Discolouration and visible growth: This might be black, green, pink, or fuzzy white patches.
- Damp, earthy smells: One of the most common signs of mildew or mould is a musty-smelling house.
- High humidity and dampness
- Blistering or peeling paint and wallpaper: Before you fix peeling paint or wallpaper in your home, consider why it is blistering or peeling in the first place. Unless you have snagged it, the chances are mould is the culprit.
- Allergy symptoms: Mould is one of the most common allergens that plagues homes.
Home and Garden said: “To get rid of mould and mildew for good, you’ll need to firstly identify and dry out the sources of moisture, using your best dehumidifier or fans, repair any leaks, stop condensation on windows, and adopt daily habits for a mould-free home, such as turning on exhaust fans after showering or cooking, opening your windows, sealing gaps, and ensuring items are dry before putting them away.”
A spokesperson for Bio-D said: “Simple habits such as ventilating the drum and drawer between washes makes a noticeable difference in preventing foul smells and mould from developing all year round, but particularly during the intense hot spells that the UK often experiences during the summer when fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels can create damp conditions where mould and mildew thrive.
“Leaving the washing machine door and detergent drawers open for several hours after each cycle allows the trapped moisture to fully escape without having to use harsh chemicals. Combined with regular wiping and occasionally running a hotter maintenance wash, these small preventative steps can help keep washing machines fresher and cleaner for longer.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
