If you have a front-loading washing machine, chances are you’ve had to deal with mold on the rubber gasket at some point. Even if you keep your laundry room clean and dry, mold can still grow in the warm, damp environment inside your washer. But don’t worry, there are a few simple things you can do to get rid of mold and keep it from coming back.
What Causes Mold on Washer Gaskets?
Mold loves warm, damp places. That’s why mold is so common in bathrooms and kitchens. Your washer’s gasket provides the perfect environment for mold to grow because it is constantly in contact with water and detergent. And even if you keep your laundry room clean and dry, mold can still find its way into your washer.
How to Remove Mold from Washer Gaskets
The good news is that mold is relatively easy to remove from washer gaskets. Here are a few simple steps you can take:
Fill your sink with hot water and add a cup of bleach. Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that will kill mold spores. Soak a sponge in the bleach solution and use it to scrub the moldy areas of your washer’s gasket. Be sure to rinse the area well when you have finished. You wouldn’t want any bleach residue left behind. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and mist the affected areas of your washer’s gasket. Vinegar is another effective disinfectant that will kill mold spores. Let the vinegar solution sit for a few minutes, then scrub the area with a brush or sponge. Rinse well when you’re finished. Dry the area thoroughly with a clean towel or cloth. Moisture is what causes mold to grow, so it’s important to completely dry the area after cleaning it.
Preventing Mold in the Future
The best way to deal with mold is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips for keeping your washer’s gasket mold-free:
Wipe down the gasket after each use with a clean towel or cloth. This will remove any detergent or water residues that could lead to mold growth. Leave the door open after each use so that air can circulate and dry out the gasket. If possible, store your washing machine in a location that has good ventilation. This will help prevent moisture buildup inside your appliance. Run an empty load with hot water and bleach once a month to disinfect your machine and avoid mold growth.
Mold loves warm, damp places, which is why front-loading washing machines are susceptible to it growing on their rubber gaskets. But you shouldn’t worry, there are a few simple things you can do to get rid of mold and keep it from coming back! Just follow these steps: fill your sink with hot water and add bleach, mix vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and run an empty load with hot water and bleach once a month! If you have mold that you can’t shake and you’re in the Boston area, your friends at Capital Appliance Repair Boston are here to help. Call us at (617) 468-1577 or contact us online to book your washer repair today.