Mold Enjoys Helping You Do the Laundry

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Does your washing machine stink?

Think back to the day that your washing machine arrived. It was clean, dry and had that new-appliance smell. Soon, it was hard at work cleaning the dirty laundry. The new-appliance smell was quickly replaced by the scent of your favorite laundry detergent. Little did you know that mold already had plans to change that.

Your Washer Provides Everything Mold Needs To Thrive

After a while, your washer developed a smell that overpowered both your fresh-smelling detergent and fabric softener. Whenever that happens, the culprit is usually mold. It’s important to remember that a washer provides mold with the everything it needs to grow:

• Food in the form of unused detergent, soap scum and residual dirt
• Moisture from the wash and rinse cycles
• Warmth from the water and nearby dryer

A Complete Cleaning Will Remove the Mold Smell

There are commercial products available that claim to clean a washing machine and remove the smell. If you don’t wish to make a trip to the store, you probably have everything you need to do it the old-fashioned way. It is a simple four-step process:

• Mix 1/4 cup each of water and baking soda and place them in the detergent dispenser.
• Pour 2 cups of vinegar into the drum.
• Run the machine on the hottest wash and rinse cycle.
• Clean the gaskets and front of the washer with a scrubber.

Preventative Maintenance Is Another Option

Some people prefer to keep their washers clean and dry between laundry sessions. Regular cleaning may not guarantee a mold-free washer, but it should increase the time between cleanings.

Every Source of Mold Is a Cause for Concern

Washing machine mold may be common, but it is just as dangerous as other molds. Left untreated, it may spread may to other areas of your home. If that happens, there are mold treatment specialists based in the Orlando, FL, area. Their training, experience and equipment make them an excellent choice to deal with your mold problems. They are just a phone call away.