Did you know that your washing machines can get dirty quite rapidly? It may also be stuffed with hidden molds (moulds) that you are not aware of. But how can you tell? The smell of a wet sock or rotten egg in your laundry room or clothes may be the biggest sign.
Molds typically form on the rubber gasket or silicon seal of your washers. Failure to clean it regularly or incorrect usage are usually the causes. To keep your garments and washing machines smelling fresh and clean, here are basic but helpful ideas:
Open the Lid if not in Use
Molds usually grow and multiply in the dark, damp areas. After unloading your clothes, the inside of your washing machines can be an ideal environment for molds to form and thrive if left uncleaned. It helps if you leave the door open to enable ventilation inside the washer.
Remove Wet Garments Right Away
Avoid stacking your clothes in your washing machine if you intend to go outside for some time or sleep and can not attend to it when the timer goes off. This does not only prevent molds from growing but also helps keep your clothes from mildewing.
Ensure to Clean Your Washing Machine Every After Use
Every time you’re finished using your washing machine, make sure to clean it down from top to bottom until the last part that’s damp. Take note of the drum, Lid, rubber gaskets, and detergent dispenser (if your machine has this feature). Wash the gaskets or seal around the door regularly and keep them dry.
The gasket seals moisture that helps mold grow and functions to make sure water doesn’t leak out around the door. Furthermore, you need to immediately get rid of crumpled papers, animal hair, or any dirt in your washing machine. You can check online to learn more about the right way of cleaning your washing machine.
In Case of Mold Appearance, Follow These Steps to Remove Them
- For a safe mold removal procedure, start by placing on gloves and find an old towel you do not use.
- Make a solution from materials found in your house. For example, you can mix up bleach and hot water or vinegar and warm water. However, never try to blend vinegar and bleach, considering that this can create a chlorine gas that may pose a hazard.
- Get the towel and dip it in the solution and use it to scrub away any noticeable mold. Concentrate on the gaskets and detergent dispenser. Dry them.
- With the hottest configuration of your washer, run a wash cycle with a cup of vinegar or bleach, but not both. For vinegar, pour it in the detergent slot and in the compartment designated for bleach if you’re using bleach. You may also utilize your machine’s self-clean cycle if it has this feature.
- Use another old, dry towel, wipe away all moisture in any part of your washing machine.
- Leave the cover open to allow airflow to dry out parts you may have missed. This should stop mold growth, mainly if you do this regularly. Click here to learn more about mold removal and services you might need.
Clean the Other Parts of Your Home
Molds may be coming from the other parts of your house, like your washroom, kitchen, and so on. Like most fungi, they reproduce and move from one place to another by releasing spores spreading through water, air, and pets. Be sure to clean the other parts of your house, specifically after water or fire damage.
If the problem is severe, consider hiring professionals. When looking for a mold removal company, it’s always best to work with one near you so they can attend to your problems right away. Ask for recommendations from people you know who have used it before or look online. For instance, search for “mold removal Ottawa” if you’re from the area.