Mould inside a washing machine is common, particularly in front-loading machines. It often develops in the rubber door seal, detergent drawer, filter and other areas where moisture and detergent residue collect.
For most people, a small amount of washing-machine mould is mainly an unpleasant cleaning problem. However, people living with aspergillosis, severe asthma, allergies or other long-term lung conditions may reasonably want to reduce avoidable mould exposure in the home.
The most effective approach is not only to remove visible mould, but also to keep the machine dry and clean enough to prevent it returning.
Key points
- Mould grows where moisture, detergent residue and dirt remain inside the machine.
- The rubber door seal and detergent drawer are the most common problem areas.
- Use gentle cleaning methods that avoid spraying mould spores or strong chemicals into the air.
- Never mix bleach with vinegar, acidic cleaners, ammonia or other cleaning products.
- Leaving the door and detergent drawer open between washes can greatly reduce recurrence.
Why does mould grow inside washing machines?
Modern washing machines often use less water and lower washing temperatures. This saves energy, but it can also allow detergent residue, fabric conditioner, skin oils, dirt and moisture to build up inside the machine.
Mould is more likely to develop when:
- the door is closed immediately after a wash;
- wet laundry is left inside the drum;
- mostly cool or eco washes are used;
- too much detergent or fabric conditioner is added;
- the rubber seal is not wiped or allowed to dry;
- the detergent drawer or filter is rarely cleaned;
- the machine is kept in a poorly ventilated room.
Where to check for mould
Mould may not always be immediately visible. Check the following areas carefully:
- Rubber door seal: pull back the folds and inspect underneath.
- Detergent drawer: remove it if possible and check the compartment behind it.
- Drum: look around the door opening and drainage holes.
- Filter: check the manufacturer’s instructions before opening it.
- Drainage area: persistent odours may indicate residue or stagnant water deeper inside the machine.
Before you start cleaning
Check the washing machine manufacturer’s instructions first. Different manufacturers recommend different cleaning products, temperatures and maintenance programmes.
To reduce exposure while cleaning:
- open a window or improve ventilation;
- wear household cleaning gloves;
- avoid leaning directly over mouldy areas;
- use damp disposable cloths rather than dry brushing;
- avoid scraping or scrubbing so vigorously that material is dispersed into the air;
- ask someone else to clean the machine if mould exposure usually worsens your breathing.
Some people with aspergillosis or severe respiratory disease may choose to wear a well-fitting FFP2 or FFP3 mask during mould cleaning. A mask does not replace ventilation or careful cleaning methods.
How to clean mould from the rubber door seal
- Switch off the washing machine.
- Gently pull back the folds of the rubber seal.
- Remove any trapped lint, hair, tissues or other debris.
- Wipe the area using a damp cloth and a cleaning product approved by the machine manufacturer.
- Pay particular attention to the lower part of the seal, where water often collects.
- Use a clean damp cloth to remove any remaining cleaning product.
- Dry the seal thoroughly.
Black staining may remain even after mould has been removed. Persistent staining does not always mean that mould is still actively growing, but damaged or deeply contaminated seals may need replacing.
How to clean the detergent drawer
- Remove the drawer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Wash it with warm water and washing-up liquid.
- Use a small brush for narrow areas, taking care not to flick residue into the air.
- Wipe the compartment where the drawer sits.
- Rinse and dry the drawer before replacing it.
Using too much detergent or fabric conditioner can encourage residue to collect in this area. Follow the dosing instructions for your detergent and local water hardness.
Cleaning the filter
Many washing machines have a filter behind a small panel near the bottom of the machine. This may collect lint, hair, coins and other debris.
Before opening it:
- read the manufacturer’s instructions;
- switch off and unplug the machine;
- place towels or a shallow tray underneath, as water may escape;
- allow hot water to cool before opening the filter.
Clean the filter, remove debris and replace it securely. A blocked or dirty filter can contribute to poor drainage and unpleasant smells.
Run a maintenance wash
After cleaning the visible parts of the machine, run the manufacturer’s drum-clean or maintenance programme.
If the machine does not have a dedicated cleaning cycle, the manufacturer may recommend an empty hot wash. Use only a cleaning product that is suitable for your particular machine.
Do not assume that adding more cleaner will work better. Excessive detergent or cleaning product may leave additional residue behind.
Avoid mixing cleaning chemicals
Important safety warning
Never mix bleach with vinegar, limescale remover, toilet cleaner, ammonia or other household cleaning products.
Mixing bleach with acidic products can release chlorine gas, which can cause serious breathing difficulties and may require urgent medical attention.
Use one product at a time, follow the label instructions and rinse surfaces before using any different product.
How to stop washing-machine mould coming back
Keeping the machine dry between washes is often more effective than repeatedly carrying out deep cleaning.
- Remove laundry promptly when the cycle finishes.
- Leave the washing-machine door slightly open between washes.
- Leave the detergent drawer open so it can dry.
- Wipe moisture from the door seal, particularly from the lower folds.
- Use the correct amount of detergent.
- Reduce or avoid fabric conditioner if residue repeatedly builds up.
- Run the manufacturer’s maintenance cycle regularly.
- Clean the drawer, seal and filter routinely.
- Make sure the room is adequately ventilated.
How often should the machine be cleaned?
There is no single schedule suitable for every household. A machine used daily may need more frequent attention than one used only occasionally.
As a practical guide:
- wipe and check the door seal every week or two;
- clean the detergent drawer approximately once a month;
- run a maintenance wash according to the manufacturer’s advice;
- check the filter every few months, or sooner if drainage becomes slow or the machine smells.
Clean the machine sooner if you notice visible mould, slime, residue or a persistent musty smell.
When should the door seal be replaced?
Replacing the rubber door seal may be more effective than repeated cleaning if:
- the seal is cracked, torn or misshapen;
- mould is deeply embedded in the rubber;
- water repeatedly collects because the seal is damaged;
- the machine leaks;
- a persistent smell remains after thorough cleaning.
A competent appliance engineer may be able to replace the seal without replacing the whole washing machine.
When might the washing machine need professional attention?
Consider contacting the manufacturer or an appliance engineer if:
- the machine does not drain properly;
- stagnant water remains inside;
- the smell returns immediately after cleaning;
- mould appears to be growing behind inaccessible panels;
- the machine leaks;
- the seal or internal pipework needs replacing.
Is washing-machine mould dangerous for people with aspergillosis?
Finding mould in a washing machine does not necessarily mean that your home contains unusually high levels of airborne mould. Washing machines are naturally damp environments, and small amounts of mould are common.
However, people with aspergillosis or other significant respiratory conditions may wish to take reasonable precautions, particularly when disturbing visible mould.
Try to avoid:
- dry brushing;
- scraping large mouldy areas;
- using sprays that create a fine mist;
- mixing cleaning chemicals;
- remaining in a poorly ventilated room while strong products are being used.
If cleaning mould reliably causes coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or breathlessness, ask someone else to do the cleaning where possible.
When to seek medical advice
Seek medical advice if you develop a persistent worsening of respiratory symptoms after mould exposure, particularly if you have aspergillosis, severe asthma, bronchiectasis or another chronic lung condition.
Call 999 or seek urgent medical help if exposure to cleaning chemicals causes severe breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, collapse or difficulty speaking in full sentences.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use bleach in my washing machine?
Only use bleach if the washing-machine manufacturer states that it is safe for your model. Bleach can damage some rubber seals, metal parts and internal components.
Never mix bleach with vinegar or any other cleaning product.
Can I use vinegar?
Some manufacturers advise against regular vinegar use because concentrated acids may damage rubber seals or internal components. Check the instructions for your machine before using it.
Does a hot wash kill mould?
A hot maintenance wash may help reduce microorganisms and remove detergent residue, but it may not remove mould that is deeply embedded in a damaged rubber seal. Physical cleaning and drying are still important.
Should I replace the machine if there is mould in the seal?
Usually not. The seal can often be cleaned or replaced. Replacing the entire machine is generally only necessary if there is extensive inaccessible contamination, repeated drainage problems or the cost of repair is not economical.
Should I keep the door open all the time?
Leaving the door slightly open helps moisture evaporate. However, consider the safety of children and pets, who may climb into an open machine. Keep the laundry area secure where necessary.
Does washing at low temperatures cause mould?
Low-temperature washes can contribute to residue building up inside the machine, particularly if too much detergent or fabric conditioner is used. Regular maintenance cycles can help control this.
Related information
- Choosing a face mask for protection from dust and mould
- Getting help with damp and mould in rented housing
- Indoor air quality and aspergillosis
- Damp and mould in the home
Always follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions supplied by the manufacturer of your washing machine.
