Tackling and Removing Mould and Bacteria in a Washing Machine

    A problem more and more people are experiencing with their washing machines is a build up of mould and bacteria in washing machines. This can occur for a number of reasons.

    For information on how to tackle and resolve Washing Machines faults and problems see our other articles ».

    Tools that you will need

    • Long handled 'Dishwashing type' brush

    Parts that you will need

    1. Using detergents without bleach: Many detergents (liquids and those marked "for colour") do not contain bleach.

    2. Lack of "boil washes": More of us are washing at lower temperatures allowing bacteria to survive the wash cycle.

    3. Lack of ventilation: Many people know to leave the door open after use but do not allow enough air to dry the washer.

    4. Lack of maintenance washes: Your machine should be cleaned regularly with a maintenance wash cycle.

    So if you are suffering with mould or bacteria build up this is how we recommend you tackle this problem.

    First we must cure this by cleaning as much mould from the machine as possible.

    To do this the most obvious starting point is the door seal, this can build up black "gunge" that is a combination of detergent and dirt residue, mould and bacteria.

    To clean the door seal take an anti bacterial cleaner and spray the mould whilst wiping it gently with a plastic scouring pad. Repeatedly rinse the scourer and take care not to wear through the rubber or make a hole.

    It may not be possible to remove all black marks as the seal may be stained by the mould, if no deposit comes off when you rub your finger nail over then the remaining stain is in rubber of the seal. This is now dead and will not cause further problems if kept clean and dry.

    Then remove the soap drawer and using a brush clean any deposit paying particular attention to the spray holes above the draw.

    If these holes block with mould or bacteria they will usually block preventing the conditioner from being dispensed and sometimes lead to leaking from the dispenser on the final rinse cycle. Check wipe and rinse the drain filter and chamber if fitted.

    Then put the machine on a maintenance or service wash (boil wash) with no clothing inside. Add a washing machine cleaner product like the Buyspares descaler and washing machine cleaner. This will help dissolve and disperse residue from behind the drum allowing it to flush away.

    Now to help prevent the problem reoccurring ensure the washing machine can dry out between washes by leaving the door and drawer wide open to allow air to vent through.

    washing machine Accessories

    To help prevent Mould and Bacteria from returning always leave the door and draw wide open

    * All information provided is a guide only. BuySpares accepts no liability for any problems occurred while attempting any advice shown. If in any doubt contact a qualified repair service.