Did you know that your washing machines can get dirty pretty quickly? It may even be full of unseen molds (moulds) that you are not aware of. So, how do you know if you can’t see any visible signs?? This may be a sign if you smell a wet sock or rotten egg in your laundry room or clothes.
Molds typically form on the rubber gasket or silicon seal of your washers. It usually starts from failing to clean it regularly or improper usage. To maintain your garments and washing machines smelling fresh and clean, here are helpful tips:
Open up the Lid if not in Use
Molds typically form, grow, and reproduce in dark, wet areas. After unpacking your clothes, the inside of your washing machines can be an ideal atmosphere for molds to grow and thrive if left uncleaned. It helps if you leave the door open to enable airflow inside the washer.
Remove Wet Clothes Immediately
Avoid filling your clothes in your washing machine if you plan to go outside for a while 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 done using your washing machine, ensure to wipe 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 function). Wash the gaskets or seal around the door regularly and keep them dry.
The gasket seals moisture that helps mold develop and acts as a barrier to ensure water does not leak out around the door. Furthermore, remove crumpled documents, pet hair, or any dirt in your washing machine as soon as you can.
In Case of Mold Development, Follow These Steps to Eliminate Them
- For a safe mold removal process, begin by wearing gloves and find an old towel you don’t use.
- Make a solution from materials found in your home. You can mix bleach and warm water or vinegar and warm water. Never attempt to mix vinegar and bleach because 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 visible mold. Focus on the gaskets and detergent dispenser. Dry them.
- With the hottest setting 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 use your machine’s self-clean cycle if it has this function.
- Utilizing another old, dry towel, wipe away all moisture in all parts of your washer.
- Leave the door open to let air circulation dry out parts you may have missed. This should help stop mold growth, especially if you do this every month. You may go to this website to know more about mold removal and certain services you might need related to molds at home.
Clean the Other Parts of Your Home
Molds might be coming from the other parts of your house, like your washroom, kitchen, etc. Like many 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 property, specifically after water or fire damage.
If the problem is serious, look for a professional mold removal company near you, such as PuroClean of Ottawa East. Ensure that the contractors you choose are experienced, licensed, and always ask about hidden charges.
