Whether you have a top or front loader, new washing machine or old, mold will find its way into it. Though it seems ridiculous, a washing machine being dirty–it’s inevitable since they are the ideal environment for growing mold.
Why Does it Grow?
Over time, moisture gets trapped in your washing machine’s hard to reach places–those moisture rich nooks and crannies can easily become mold’s favorite place. Seals, gaskets, and dispensers are just a few areas that harbor moisture and don’t dry out properly after a wash cycle. Combine the trapped moisture with the humidity of your laundry room, and you’ve created the perfect mold friendly environment. Even if you can’t see it, mold can still be present. It can even attach itself to your clean clothing and cause respiratory issues. To keep your lungs happy and your clothes clean, try out the following cleaning and prevention tips.
How to Clean your Machine
Top Loaders:
- Add 1 cup of BactroKill to your machine.
- Fill the washing machine with hot water.
- Allow the mixture to sit in the washing machine for a minimum of one hour.
- Run the washing machine like normal.
- Open the machine lid and wipe it out. Keep the lid open to allow it to dry completely.
Front Loaders:
- Spray the entire washer basin with BactroKill and allow it to air dry.
- Run a normal wash cycle with the hottest water possible.
- Run a rinse cycle to flush out remaining grime or residue.
- Open the door when done and wipe out the wash basin and gasket area. Keep the door open to allow it to dry completely.
Front Gaskets:
- Make sure the washer is turned OFF and empty.
- Turn the gasket folds outward and using a damp disposable rag, remove any foreign substances (i.e. hair, detergent, mold etc.)
- With the gasket still folded outwards, spray it thoroughly with BactroKill.
- Using an old toothbrush, scrub the mold affected areas.
- Once you’ve scrubbed the mold, take another wet rag, and clean out the debris.
- Wipe the gasket area with a dry cloth.
- Spray it thoroughly with BactroKill to kill any lingering spores, then allow the gasket to air dry completely before flipping it back into place.
How to Prevent Mold
Wipe it down: After using your washing machine, be sure to wipe down any part that is damp. Good places to focus on are the lid, drum, door, and rubber gaskets.
Leave the lid/door open: Mold loves to grow in dark, damp areas, which is what your washer becomes after taking out your clothes. Leaving the lid or door open gives the machine proper ventilation and prevents mold from growing in the first place.
Remove wet clothes: Always remove clothes from the washing machine as soon as the timer goes off. Not only does this prevent mold from growing in your machine or attaching to your clothes, but it also keeps your clothes from mildewing.
Clean the Gaskets: Mold contamination can happen in any washer–it’s especially common in high-efficiency or front-loading washers. That is why you should regularly clean the gaskets, as they do a good job at sealing in moisture that can help mold grow.
Fight back With Bactronix!
Dealing with mold in your washing machine requires consistent maintenance and proactive measures. Mold thrives in the damp, confined spaces, posing risks not only to appliance longevity but also to your health and clothing. Regular cleaning and preventative steps like using specialized cleaning solutions and keeping the machine dry and ventilated after use are essential.
However, for persistent mold issues or to ensure thorough mold elimination, contacting Bactronix for professional assistance is highly recommended. Our expertise and products can effectively tackle mold and prevent its recurrence, safeguarding both your laundry routine and your well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Bactronix for a cleaner, mold-free home.
