How to Get Mould Out Washing Machine: Step-by-Step Guide

Why mould grows in washing machines

If you're wondering how to get mould out washing machine, you're not alone. Mould and mildew flourish in damp, dark spaces, and washing machines—especially front-load models—provide an ideal microclimate: warm water, residues of detergents, and frequent moisture. Over time, mould manifests as a musty odor, vague fabric stains, or visible black or greenish growth around seals. Regular cleaning disrupts the conditions mould needs to thrive. According to Best Washing Machine, routine maintenance is linked to a lower risk of mould buildup and a longer-lasting washer. In this section, we’ll decode the roots of the problem and set you up with a plan you can use every month. The main culprits are trapped moisture after cycles, soap scum buildup, and clogged seals that trap laundry residues. Small steps—like wiping the door gasket after use and choosing the right cleaning cycle—go a long way toward keeping your machine fresh. Remember that consistency is key: mould doesn’t appear overnight, but it grows quickly when damp corners are left unattended.

To get ahead of mould, start by understanding your washer’s design. Front-load machines use a door seal that can hold onto dampness. Detergent residues from powders or pods can cling to the drum and filters, creating a nutrient-rich environment for mould. If you’re looking for a practical starting point, consider the keyword how to get mould out washing machine: a clean slate begins with a hot maintenance cycle and targeted scrubbing. This approach aligns with Best Washing Machine’s guidance on address-and-prevent techniques, emphasizing simple daily habits and a scheduled deep clean.

Key takeaway: mould thrives where moisture lingers. A combination of hot cleaning cycles, physical scrubbing of hard-to-reach areas, and deliberate drying routines can dramatically reduce mould presence. You’ll also want to choose a routine that suits your washer model and household needs.

Safety and prep: protect yourself and your machine

Before you dive into mould removal, take a moment to prepare. Disconnect the washer from the power source to eliminate any risk of shock during cleaning. Gather your supplies in advance so you don’t have to interrupt mid-clean. Wear rubber gloves to protect your skin from cleaners and to avoid irritating mould dislodged during scrubbing. Open windows or work in a well-ventilated area to keep fumes and odours from building up. For best results, choose safe cleaners that won’t react badly with your machine’s materials.

In terms of products, white distilled vinegar and baking soda are commonly recommended because they’re effective against mould and mildew while being relatively gentle on most washers. Avoid mixing bleach with ammonia or acidic cleaners, as dangerous vapours can form. Read your washer’s manual for any manufacturer-specific warnings about cleaning cycles, temperatures, or chemicals.

Why this matters: improper cleaners or aggressive scrubbing can damage gaskets, hoses, or seals. Use a soft cloth for wiping and a gentle brush for seams. Finally, remove the dryer or other items stored near the machine to ensure you have space to work and air to circulate. This careful preparation minimizes risk and supports a smooth cleaning process.

Tip: keeping a dedicated cleaning kit near the washer helps you stick to a routine and reduces the chance of omitting crucial steps.

Deep-clean the drum and interior surfaces

A thorough drum clean is the cornerstone of mould removal. Start with a hot cleaning cycle—many machines offer a dedicated “Tub Clean” or “Self Clean” setting, but you can also run a standard hot wash. Add white vinegar to the detergent dispenser or directly into the drum (about 2 cups for a full load, adjust for smaller loads). If you prefer baking soda, a half-cup sprinkled into the drum can help with odours and residue. Run the hottest cycle your machine allows, amply circulating cleaning agents to penetrate the drum and inner walls.

After the cycle completes, wipe the drum with a damp microfiber cloth, focusing on corners and crevices where mould can hide. Use an old toothbrush or a small brush to scrub around the edges of the drum lip. Don’t forget to empty and rinse the drum’s interior top where moisture can accumulate. If you notice persistent odours, run an additional quick cycle with vinegar or baking soda. This step lays the groundwork for mould-free laundry days and reduces the need for harsher chemicals later.

Maintenance-minded homes report that performing this drum clean every month—or every other month for low-use households—helps catch mould early. For families with persistent mould issues, consider alternating between white vinegar and baking soda on successive cleans to target different mould profiles.

Scrub the door seal and gasket thoroughly

The door seal is a common hiding spot for mould. Around the fold and the creases, mould can latch onto fibres and build a colony. Dip a microfiber cloth in a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar, then wipe every fold of the gasket. For stubborn mould, mix a paste of baking soda and water and apply to the stained areas, letting it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a soft brush.

Be sure to pull back the gasket gently and inspect the hidden spaces. Use an old toothbrush to reach tight corners and a dry cloth to remove moisture after cleaning. If you find mould in the seam that cannot be easily removed, repeat the process and consider giving that spot extra attention in the next cycle. When done, dry the gasket completely and leave the door ajar to air out. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the gasket reduces recurrences dramatically.

Note: mould around the gasket can indicate a broader moisture problem inside the machine. If you see persistent growth or a strong musty odour, you may need to inspect the water inlet system or seals for wear.

Detergent drawer, hoses, and internal passages

Detergent drawers and hoses can trap residues that feed mould. Remove the detergent drawer (check your user manual for the exact method) and soak it in warm water mixed with a little vinegar for ten minutes. Use a small brush to dislodge residue, then rinse thoroughly and dry before reinserting. Clean the interior passages with a damp cloth; if your washer uses flexible hoses, inspect them for signs of mould or mildew along the seams.

A common culprit is powder detergent residue that clings to the drawer and flows into the drum with each cycle. Rinse the drawer housing and wipe the surrounding area to prevent re-contamination. Dry all parts completely before reassembling. This step ensures cleaner cycles and helps prevent future mould growth.

To avoid repeat issues, consider switching to a liquid detergent and enabling a lower-pill, less residue-heavy routine. Keeping the drawer dry between washes also helps reduce mould-friendly environments.

Pro tip: a quick wipe-down of the drawer slot after every cycle dramatically lowers the chance of mould establishing a foothold.

Sanitize cycles, drying, and ongoing prevention

Once you’ve cleaned the drum, gasket, and dispenser, run a final sanitize cycle with hot water to ensure residual mould cells are swept away. Some machines require a separate program for sanitizing; if yours does not, run the hottest normal cycle with a small amount of vinegar to boost cleaning power.

After the cycle, leave the door open and allow the drum to air-dry completely. Moisture is the enemy of mould, so airing the interior for several hours is highly beneficial. If your home environment is humid, consider running a dehumidifier or increasing air circulation in the laundry area to reduce lingering moisture. Regular ventilation helps prevent mould from returning.

Optional step: wipe the exterior surfaces with a clean, damp cloth to remove any moisture from cleaning agents and keep the machine looking pristine. Many households find that a monthly maintenance routine combining cleaning and drying yields the best long-term results.

Tip: place a moisture-absorbing product or small desiccant in the laundry area to maintain dryness between washes.

Maintenance routine and troubleshooting: keep mould at bay

Effective mould prevention is a routine, not a one-off event. Schedule a monthly deep clean and a weekly quick wipe-down of the door seal and detergent drawer. If you notice a mouldy odour returning between deep cleans, bump up the frequency of the cleaning cycle or extend the hot wash duration a bit, always staying within the manufacturer’s guidelines. For persistent problems, inspect the machine’s drainage system and filter for clogs or mineral buildup. A small amount of vinegar in the rinse cycle can help with odour control, but do not combine it with bleach or other harsh chemicals.

If mould keeps returning, it could be a sign of a larger issue: a blocked drain, damaged gasket, or moisture retention within the cabinet. In such cases, consulting a technician or the manufacturer’s support line is wise. Best Washing Machine recommends a proactive approach to maintenance: document when you clean, monitor odours, and adjust your routine to your washing patterns.

Bottom line: mould management is about habit, not a single deep clean. A simple, repeatable routine keeps your clothes fresher and your washer healthier for years to come.

Common mistakes to avoid and when to call a pro

Common missteps include using harsh solvents that damage seals, mixing cleaners that release dangerous fumes, and skipping the drying step after cleaning, which lets mould bounce back quickly. Never clean with bleach and ammonia together, and avoid hot water cleans if your unit’s seals are frayed or plastic components are degraded. If your machine’s interior still has visible mould after multiple cleanings, or you notice mould on clothes despite cleaning, it’s time to call a professional. A technician can inspect for hidden mould behind the drum or within inaccessible channels and check seals, gaskets, and components for wear.

The Best Washing Machine team notes that professional assessment is prudent when simple maintenance does not resolve persistent mould growth. Timely intervention can prevent more expensive repairs later and ensure your washer stays safe and effective for everyday use.