I’m sure you have read about how to use your washing machine to save money on your next electricity bill, but we are here to give you another advice: cleaning the rubber seal of your washing machine. This part is located at the entrance of the drum (especially in front-loading models) and it exists to avoid water escapes during the wash cycle. However, this helpful element can also be the perfect spot to accumulate mold, bacteria, and bad odors. That’s why you should keep the rubber clean if you want your washing machine to properly work and your clothes truly fresh.
So, let’s find out how you can clean this rubber step by step in a very simple way. Let’s get started!
Cleaning the rubber seal of your washing machine
This element forms a watertight barrier around the washing machine door, but it has some issues:
- Detergent and fabric softener residue.
- Constant humid.
- Dust, lint, and dirt from clothes.
When you don’t clean it, you can find mold and disgusting odors can ruin your clothes. What’s more, a neglected seal can crack or wear out and replacing it can be expensive.
How often should you clean it?
Experts recommend two simple routines:
- Quick clean: after every wash, clean the rubber with a dry cloth to get rid of the humidity.
- Deep clean: once a month clean it more in depth using vinegar or mild disinfectant.
If you follow these simple steps, your washing machine will work better and it will last longer.
What do you need?
Before you start with the cleaning, you’d better have the following materials near you:
- Clean microfiber cloth.
- Distilled white vinegar or mild disinfectant.
- Warm water.
- Old toothbrush.
- Dry towel.
Cleaning the rubber seal, step by step
Let’s have a look at how you should clean it to have an immaculate washing machine:
- Prepare the cleaning solution: mix warm water with distilled white vinegar, this natural ingredient is very efficient against mold and it is safe for your home.
- Clean the surface of the seal: dip the cloth in the cleaning solution and carefully clean the entire rubber. Pay attention to folds and hidden areas where dirt collects.
- Use a toothbrush: if you see stains or mold in narrow areas, use an old toothbrush dipped in the cleaning solution. Scrub gently so as not to damage the rubber.
- Dry it completely: with a dry towel, remove any remaining humid. This step is key to avoid mold appearing again.
- Leave the door open: when the washing machine is not working, leave the door open. This way improves air circulation and reduces humidity.
Extra tips
We want you to know how to properly maintain your washing machine, so here are some additional tips:
- Always use the exact amount of detergent because an excess of this product can provoke residue buildup.
- If your washing machine is high-efficiency, you should use low-sudsing HE detergents.
- Once a month you need to run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a commercial washing machine cleaner.
- Don’t forget to clean the detergent and softener dispensers, as they can also harbor mold.
Benefits of doing this
Spending a few minutes per month to cleaning the rubber seal has great advantages:
- Your washing machine will smell fresh.
- Your clothes will be truly clean.
- You avoid expensive repairs.
- Your washing machine will last longer.
As you can see, the process of cleaning the rubber seal is not complex and you will feel your clothes and washing machine as it should: clean. So, why not have a go at this routine and see if you like it?