Black Mold Front Loading Washing Machine

Front load washing machines are famous for being quiet efficient and gentle on clothes but they re infamous for accruing nasty mold and mildew.

Black mold front loading washing machine.

In this investigation into washing machine mold consumer reports says front load washers excel at cleaning clothes but an unsettling number of them develop mold. That rubber seal traps moisture in the machine and also provides the perfect nooks and crannies for mold and mildew to grow. Lint grime and moldy growth can all contribute to the presence of black stuff on the front loader s rubber seal. To keep the area dry leave the detergent drawer open when the washing machine is not in use.

Even if you can t see mold in the visible areas of your washing machine it s likely still there. Try to avoid using cold water wash cycles. Front loading washing machines are almost as well known for the mold that settles on the front seal as they are for their energy efficiency and gentle treatment of their loads. The answer is in the way the machine is designed.

Front loading washing machines have watertight airtight doors that seal with a rubber gasket. The doors also lock and seal tightly which can trap mold spores that can grow. These obstructions may prevent the door from creating an airtight seal presenting. In front loading washing machines a rubber or silicon seal is placed to keep water from leaking out the front.

The warmer wash cycles will help deter the mold growth in the drawer. Washing machine mold which is typically found on the rubber gasket of front loading machines is a common household problem. Once mold settles on the seal it s tough but not impossible to remove. How to prevent black mold in washing machine drawer.

Here s how to clean front load washer mold along with tips to limit the machine s susceptibility to future growth. A front loading washing machine will have a very pronounced door gasket so it s essential to scrub all around it to remove black mold and get into every nook and cranny to ensure that you are getting rid of mold in the crevices here. After every wash cycle wipe the detergent drawer with a dry cloth.