Ever noticed a musty smell on your freshly washed clothes or spotted black stains on the rubber seal of your washing machine? You’re not alone—mould loves to hide in this damp, hard-to-reach area, turning your laundry hero into a source of odour and potential health issues.
Knowing how to effectively remove mould from washing machine rubber is essential for keeping your appliance clean and your clothes smelling fresh. In this article, you’ll find simple steps, handy tips, and expert insights to tackle mould and prevent it from coming back.
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How to Remove Mould from Washing Machine Rubber: A Complete Guide
Mould on your washing machine’s rubber seal is an all-too-common problem. It’s not just unsightly—it can cause unpleasant smells, affect your laundry’s freshness, and even shorten your machine’s lifespan. The good news? You can banish mould and restore your washer to its clean, efficient best with some practical know-how and a little elbow grease.
In this guide, you’ll discover what causes mould on washing machine rubbers, how to remove it step by step, and tips for stopping it from coming back.
Why Does Mould Grow on Washing Machine Seals?
The rubber seal around your washing machine drum—also called the gasket—creates a tight, waterproof barrier when the door is closed. Unfortunately, this area is also the perfect breeding ground for mould:
- Moisture lingers, especially after a wash cycle.
- Tiny bits of lint, hair, and detergent residue can get trapped around the folds.
- Warmth and darkness help mould thrive.
- Not leaving the door open between washes prevents the area from drying out.
Regular cleaning and proper habits can make a world of difference in keeping these issues at bay.
How to Remove Mould from Washing Machine Rubber: Step-By-Step
Let’s walk through the most effective way to tackle mouldy washing machine seals. You don’t need fancy cleaners—household staples often do the trick.
What You’ll Need
- Rubber gloves
- Cleaning cloths or sponges
- An old toothbrush (for scrubbing into folds)
- A spray bottle
- White vinegar or a mild mould remover
- Baking soda (optional for extra scrubbing power)
- Warm water
Optional:
- Dish soap
- Hydrogen peroxide (for stubborn stains and mould)
Step 1: Prepare for Cleaning
- Make sure the washing machine is off and unplugged for safety.
- Put on your gloves. Mould isn’t just smelly—it can irritate your skin.
Step 2: Mix Your Cleaning Solution
- For most mould, plain white vinegar diluted with warm water (1:1 ratio) is all you need.
- For extra cleaning power, sprinkle a little baking soda onto your damp cloth or directly onto the rubber seal.
Step 3: Wipe Down the Rubber Seal
- Gently pull back the rubber gasket to expose hidden mould and grime.
- Use a cloth or sponge soaked in your vinegar solution to thoroughly wipe all around the seal, paying particular attention to folds and crevices.
- For stubborn spots, use the toothbrush to scrub the affected areas.
Step 4: Tackle Stubborn or Set-In Mould
If some black or dark green spots remain:
- Mix a paste of baking soda and water and apply directly to the worst areas.
- Alternatively, use a small amount of hydrogen peroxide (test on a hidden area first, as it can bleach or damage some rubbers).
Let the solution sit for 5–10 minutes before scrubbing again.
Step 5: Wipe Away Residue
- Dampen a fresh cloth with warm water.
- Wipe the entire rubber seal to remove any cleaning solution, loosened mould, and leftover residue.
Step 6: Dry Completely
Mould loves moisture, so make sure the rubber seal and door are completely dry when you finish.
Step 7: Run a Maintenance Wash (Optional but Recommended)
- Run your washing machine empty on the hottest cycle available. Add two cups of white vinegar or a commercial machine cleaner to the drum.
- This helps remove traces of mould from the inner workings of your machine.
Benefits of Removing Mould from Washer Rubber
- Clothes come out smelling fresher and cleaner.
- Reduces health risks such as allergies or skin irritation.
- Prevents mould spores from spreading to other corners of your home.
- Extends the life of your washing machine.
Practical Tips & Best Practices
Making the effort to prevent mould from returning is just as important as cleaning it away.
Do This After Each Wash
- Leave the washing machine door open for at least an hour after every load to let the seal dry out.
- Quickly wipe the rubber seal and door with a dry cloth.
Weekly Habits
- Remove visible lint, hair, and debris trapped in the rubber folds.
- Give the seal a quick rinse with a vinegar-dampened cloth every week.
Monthly Maintenance
- Run an empty “maintenance wash” on the hottest setting using vinegar or a machine cleaner.
- Clean the detergent drawer and filters to prevent mould buildup.
Bonus Tip
- Use the right amount of detergent. Overuse creates more suds, which leave extra residue that feeds mould.
- Consider using liquid detergent, as powder sometimes leaves behind more undissolved residue.
- If living in a hard water area, descale your machine regularly to prevent added build-up.
Common Challenges
Removing mould isn’t always a one-and-done task. Here’s what you might run into:
- Deep mould in hard-to-reach folds may need repeated cleaning.
- Old, deteriorating rubber may never look brand new—even after thorough scrubbing.
- Some commercial mould removers can damage rubber over time, so always test cleaners on a small area first.
If your seal is too mouldy to clean or is physically breaking down, replacing it is the safest choice.
Concluding Summary
Taking care of your washing machine’s rubber seal doesn’t just make your laundry smell fresher—it can save you money in the long run. Mould loves warm, damp places, and your washer’s seal is a prime target. With regular cleaning, smart drying habits, and the occasional maintenance wash, you can say goodbye to lingering smells and nasty mould spots for good.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often should I clean the rubber seal on my washing machine?
You should clean the rubber seal at least once a month, but a quick wipe after every wash can prevent mould from forming in the first place.
2. Is it safe to use bleach on the rubber seal?
Bleach is effective at killing mould, but it can weaken and discolor the rubber over time. Gentler solutions like white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide are safer, especially for regular cleaning.
3. Why does my washing machine smell even after cleaning the rubber seal?
Persistent odors may come from hidden mould inside the machine, such as in the detergent drawer, drum, or drain filter. Running a hot maintenance wash and cleaning these areas can help.
4. Can I prevent mould from returning after I clean the seal?
Yes! Always leave the machine door open after washing, wipe down the seal regularly, use the right amount of detergent, and run monthly maintenance washes.
5. How do I know if the seal needs replacing instead of cleaning?
If the seal is cracked, misshapen, heavily stained, or the mould is deeply embedded and won’t come clean, it’s time to replace it. Continuing to use a damaged or mouldy seal can harm your clothes and machine.
By following these tips and habits, you can keep your washing machine clean, your laundry fresh, and your home mould-free. Happy washing!