🧼 How to Clean Your Washing Machine (Rubber Seal, Mould & Bad Smells) – Complete Guide

🧽 Why You Must Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly

Many people think their washing machine stays clean—but that’s not true.

Over time, detergent residue, dirt, and moisture build up inside the machine, especially around the rubber seal, leading to:

• Unpleasant smells

• Black mould

• Bacteria buildup

• Clothes coming out smelling worse

👉 Regular cleaning keeps your machine hygienic and your clothes fresh.

🔍 Where Mould Builds Up (Most Important Area)

The biggest problem area is the rubber door seal.

This part traps:

• Water

• Lint

• Dirt

• Detergent residue

👉 Perfect conditions for mould to grow.

🧼 Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Washing Machine Properly

1. Clean the Rubber Seal with Bleach

• Use pure gel bleach

• Apply it directly onto the rubber seal

• Pull back the folds and clean inside thoroughly

⚠️ You might notice a strong smell—this is normal and shows the mould is being removed.

2. Add Bleach to the Detergent Compartment

• Pour a small amount of bleach into the drawer
  👉 This helps clean internal pipes where residue builds up

3. Run a Hot Wash Cycle

• Select a long washing program

• Set temperature to 90°C

👉 This will:

• Kill bacteria

• Remove mould

• Flush out buildup

4. Wipe Down After the Cycle

• Use a clean cloth to wipe the rubber seal
  👉 Removes any remaining residue and moisture

🔄 How to Prevent Mould in Your Washing Machine

✔️ Leave the Door Open

After each wash:

• Keep the door slightly open
  👉 Allows air circulation and drying

✔️ Use a Descaler Occasionally

• Prevents limescale buildup

• Keeps your machine efficient

✔️ Clean Monthly

👉 A quick clean once a month prevents major problems

🚫 Signs Your Washing Machine Needs Cleaning

• Bad smell from drum

• Black marks on rubber seal

• Clothes smell musty after washing

💡 Pro Tip from Cleaning Experts

Small habits make a big difference.

👉 Keeping your machine dry and ventilated is the best way to stop mould from coming back.

🏠 Professional Cleaning Services in Huntingdon

If you don’t have time to deal with deep cleaning, our team at Sabina Cleaning Huntingdon Ltd is here to help.

We specialise in:

• Deep cleaning

• End of tenancy cleaning

• PCs cleaning

👉 Helping military families and busy households keep their homes spotless.