While front-load washers are incredibly convenient, they’re known for being notoriously difficult to keep clean. Yes, they provide numerous benefits, especially to those who live in smaller spaces, such as apartments and condos, but the biggest issue with them is mould and mildew build-up.
The most common area for mould growth on a front-load washer is the gasket—essentially a large rubber ring that sits between the drum and the door to the machine. The gasket keeps water from flowing or leaking out of the washer while in use. However, the area is exposed to water regularly, which means it can promote mould growth.
If you start noticing a mould build-up on the gasket, you’ll want to deal with the issue promptly. Allowing mould to continue growing can lead to more significant troubles with your washing machine.
You have two options for removing mould from your gasket: Clean your washer and gasket or remove the gasket.
Cleaning the Gasket
Remove the Buildup
The telltale sign of mould or mildew growth is a bad smell. All front-loading washing machines have a rubber gasket that you can pull back and clean. If you don’t consistently keep your gasket clean, it can get filled with detergent buildup and hair. You’ll want to remove clumps from the gasket before moving on.
Use Vinegar or Bleach
The best method for removing mould from your gasket yourself is using vinegar or bleach. Luckily, you don’t have to remove the gasket in order to clean it.
If you choose vinegar, make sure to proceed with the following:
- Wear rubber gloves and goggles.
- Pour some undiluted vinegar into a spray bottle.
- Spray the mould build-up with the vinegar and let it sit for at least an hour or more.
- Use a brush and give the mould a good scrub until it’s scraped off.
- Rinse the gasket with water.
- Leave the washer door ajar and let the rubber air dry.
Vinegar is a reliable solution to kill mould, but if you want a method quicker than vinegar, you can use bleach instead.
Follow these steps if you choose to elect the bleach method:
- Wear gloves and goggles (yes, again).
- Mix one part bleach with four parts of water.
- Pour the mixture into a bottle.
- Spray the mould with the mixture.
- Let it sit for 15 minutes to half an hour.
- Use a brush and give the mould a good scrub until it’s scraped off.
- Rinse the gasket with water.
- Leave the washer door open and let the rubber air dry.
Give It a Wipe Down
It’s integral to scrub as hard as possible when dealing with mould. In addition to the gasket, you may want to wipe down all other components of your front-load washer, including the soap holder tray, drain plug/filter, drum, and the washer door.
Some front-loading and top-loading washing machine models have a tub clean cycle. If your front-load washer has this function, pour some vinegar into the laundry detergent compartment, select the tub clean cycle, and wait until it ends. If your model doesn’t have this wash cycle, that’s okay. You can choose the longest/hottest setting, add vinegar, and complete the wash cycle.
Replacing the Gasket on Your Front-Load Washer
Washing machines are very complex appliances, which is why having your gasket replaced by a professional is recommended instead of a DIY approach. An experienced technician will know how to properly replace it without the risk of damaging your front-load washer. The last thing you need is to damage the washer by replacing the gasket yourself.
Our professionals know how to deal with mould safely. Replacing a mouldy gasket yourself may result in you becoming sick. Let the pros take care of the replacement—they possess the correct tools and know-how to deal with the issue efficiently.
How Do You Get Rid of Mould in a Gasket?
As mentioned, using a spray bottle with vinegar or a bleach mixture can aid in your mould removal. Remember, don’t combine the two options, as it can result in toxic fumes. With gloves, push the rubber gasket gently and spray the mixture into the grooves of the seal. Use a soft cloth or brush and rub the areas clean. Finish off by spraying the gasket with clean water, wiping it down, and leaving the door open to air dry.
How Do You Remove Black Mould From a Rubber Seal?
Black mould can be a stubborn situation to deal with. You can use a detergent solution to scrub down any patches of mould with a scouring pad dipped in bleach. It’s paramount to wear protective eyewear and gloves when dealing with bleach. In addition, frequently cleaning rubber materials with bleach can damage them over time. Chlorine bleach contains up to 7.5% sodium hypochlorite, which can be a very corrosive chemical. Avoid using too much bleach when removing black mould from a rubber seal.
How Do You Remove Mould From a Rubber Seal on a Water Bottle?
When you notice unsightly black dots on the rubber seal of your water bottle, they can only get worse if not dealt with swiftly. Start by washing your bottle in hot water and dish soap. Use a soft brush to clean every nook and cranny you can manage before soaking the bottle and lid in a mixture of water and white vinegar overnight. White vinegar can kill bacteria and remove mould. Then make a paste with two tablespoons of baking soda and water and scrub the seal with it. Make sure to rub it in every crease and leave it for 10 minutes. After that’s done, rinse the bottle/lid thoroughly and dry using a soft cloth.
Are you experiencing an issue with your front-load washer? We understand. All you want to do is get the laundry done, but now you’re stuck with the headache of identifying the cause. Get the most out of our reliable appliance repair in Ottawa. Our team can examine your appliance and provide an effective solution so you can quickly get back to keeping your clothes clean. Contact us today to learn more.