Does your washing machine smell funny? The issue may be coming from the rubber seal on the door, also known as a gasket. It traps moisture in the machine and is the perfect place for mould and mildew to grow. In this article, we will outline step-by-step instructions on how to clean washing machine seals to ensure everything stays clean and hygienic.
The supplies and tools that you will need
- Baking soda
- White vinegar or bleach
- A clean towel or cloth
- Washing-up liquid
Cleaning the washing machine door seal
- Add 1 cup of baking soda around the seal inside the drum.
- Run the washing machine empty for a few wash cycles. To achieve the best results, use the 90°C setting. This is the easiest way to clean the rubber seal. This goes for the washing machine itself as well.
- Add 1 cup bleach and 1 cup baking soda into the washing powder drawer. You can use 2 cups of vinegar, ¼ cup of baking soda and ¼ water instead if you do not have bleach on hand.
- When the cycles are completed, put a few drops of washing-up liquid in warm water and mix it well. Using a clean cloth, wipe down the rubber seal on all sides with the mixture.
- Make sure to wipe around and underneath the seal, as well.
Another way to clean the seal is with a cotton pad or ball, dampened in white vinegar. Here is how:
- Open the washing machine door wide to expose the seal and use the cotton pad to wipe or scrub the mould away from the large, visible parts of the rubber.
- To clean the hard-to-reach parts of the rubber seal, use a Q-tip instead. Don’t forget to dip it in white vinegar before you start cleaning.
- Pull the fold of the seal forward with your fingers and use the Q-tip to rub away the mould and any debris that has become stuck in between. You will probably need a few Q-tips
- Remember to clean the gasket all the way around, since there might be mould and debris all over it.
- Finally, to rinse the washing machine from the white vinegar and whatever smaller dirt particles are left inside it use the self-cleaning function if it has one or run it empty on the warm or hot water cycle.Finally, to rinse the washing machine from the white vinegar and whatever smaller dirt particles are left inside it use the self-cleaning function if it has one or run it empty on the warm or hot water cycle.
How to prevent mould and mildew accumulating on your washing machine seal?
Keep mould and mildew away from your washing machine by following a few easy steps:
- Leave the washing machine door open when you are not using it, especially after you have finished with the washing;
- Remove the laundry from the machine as soon as it finishes its cycle;
- Use a clean cloth or towel to dry the door, seal, and glass once the cycle has finished.
Another reason why mould and gel-like dirt might build up on the rubber seal is if you are constantly washing at low temperatures or use detergents excessively. Using the machine at temperatures of 40°C or less prevents proper rinsing of detergent residue, which facilitates mould, dirt and grease deposits on your gasket.
Book a professional service
You can rely on expert cleaners that know how to get rid of even the most challenging stains and are always ready to take the weight of cleaning from your shoulders. Contact us now and book a local professional cleaner that will bring your splashback back to life. Moreover, If your kitchen appliances need a deep clean, consider combining both services for wonderful results!