Joy asked: How do I remove mould from the rubber seal on a front loader washing machine door? This mould has built up over time in the fold in the rubber seal on the door. I now dry the water from the fold after each wash, but still have a build-up of black mould spots. The machine and laundry have an odor from the mould.
Table of Contents:
Any rubber seals that are exposed to constant moisture are at risk for developing mold. For obvious reasons, washing machines are a common victim. If not removed, the mold develops and odor and transfers onto clothing during the wash cycle. Removing this mold can take some work, but it can be done. Once the mold is removed, see our additional tips for ways to keep it from returning. Before using the bleach method below, check your owner’s manual to ensure the gaskets are bleach tolerable.
You Will Need:
- Bleach
- Vinegar
- Spray bottle
- Soft cloth
- Rubber gloves
Steps to Remove the Mold:
- Start by running a normal wash cycle with hot water and bleach. The amount of bleach will depend on the size of the washer. Use an appropriate amount for one load of laundry. If you are unable to use bleach, vinegar can be used in its place.
- Mix one part bleach with four parts water in the spray bottle.
- Use the spray bottle to spray and wipe away any remaining bleach areas from the rubber seal. Be sure to pull/push it gently to get in the grooves where moisture can grow and mold can develop. Wearing rubber gloves will protect your hands from the bleach.
- Wipe the areas clean with a soft cloth.
- If the mold is stubborn, allow the bleach/water mixture to sit on the area for a few minutes before wiping it away.
- Rinse by spraying with clean water and wiping with a clean cloth.
Additional Tips and Advice
- Complete the above cleaning method once a month.
- Overuse of bleach can cause premature wear on rubber seals. Keeping the seal dry will help prevent mold growth and prevent the need for constant cleanings.
- To keep the rubber seal dry, use one of the following methods:
- Remove wet clothes promptly
- Wipe it dry after use
- Leave the door open slightly to keep air flowing through
- If the washer is located in a humid area, set up a dehumidifier in the room
- Some detergents and fabric softeners are more prone to promote mold growth. If mold is a common problem, consider changing your detergent.
- There are commercial cleaners designed specifically for cleaning front loader washing machines. These are helpful in reducing soap residue that can feed mold growth.
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I tried to remove black mold build-up with bleach, vinegar, bi-carbonated soda, and store bought rinse aids, but I have a cold-only machine and it won’t work!
Do I need to replace the seal?
This is the first time in my life that I have had this problem. My mom, in Italy, never had this problem; that’s why I chose the front loader. In my 22 years of marriage, and three kids and a dog, I have done quite a bit of washing. Lately, I am grossed out from it. I have been trying some of these methods with no result. Help, please?
This works. Thank you for posting.
I have tried the bleach method. Why, when I open my machine and it has water in it, does it get all over the floor?
I have tried everything and I am ready to get rid of this washer. My friend has a WhirlPool Front Load and never has had this problem. The rubber seal on mine is full of black mold and it stinks; can not get it cleaned. I can see the water gets way down past the seal and it gets musty. It is very hard to pull the rubber back and dry it out.
Hi Susan. Is your machine a Bosch?
Mine is a Bosch Rod – does this make any difference or do you have another suggestion?
I have a Bosch and have a mold problem. I have just searched, looking for an answer, so I will try your suggestions, but is there more of a problem with Bosch washing machines?
Mine is the Ariston machine. Same problem. One would think they would use a different compound for the seal since this appears to be a common problem.
The first front loader my parents bought for their home was an Electramatic (made in Italy). It ran fine and mold free for over 30 years (with proper maintenance, of course).
Another front runner: Asko (made in Sweden) – did 5 to 7 loads each week for over 14 years; never had a problem. Tried top loaders too, and gave them up quickly (we like our laundry items to be washed clean, not just soaked in perfumed detergent so that they “smell fresh”).
Enter LG – about 1 year old and beginning to smell, under the same operating and maintenance routines. When I empty the drain pump to clean the filter, the amount of water coming out of the LG is 3-4 times more than what I used to see on any washer before. That cannot be good. The door seal material (rubber) is more porous and has more grooves and plies, which makes it far more likely to trap moisture and provide a growth bed for mold and bacteria. My point: the quality of the design and materials used to make the washers are very important. On the inside, simpler and smoother is better.
I have a Bosch front loader. I researched before I bought it and saw reviews in front loads about molding on the gasket. I went to our friend’s appliance store and asked about that and feel I was lied to to my face. How do we get rid of this? I feel like doing a service call to have them billed. Guessing we just need to change the seals if this doesn’t work.