Limescale and mould consistently invade homes, often attacking crucial parts of washing machines like the drum, drawer, heating element, and door seal. These nuisances are not only unpleasant to look at and unhygienic, but the mould can also produce a musty smell that affects your clothes.
Wondering how to fight off the tenacious black mould and hard-water marks? Cleaning experts at Smol have identified white vinegar as the champion for this task, reports the Express.
Challenging the common belief in bleach as the ultimate cleaner, the experts argue that “vinegar kills mould more effectively than bleach” They said: “Bleach only kills mould spores on the surface of affected materials whereas vinegar can penetrate porous materials, killing mould at its root.”
Using vinegar in washing machines has sparked concerns it could cause damage, but such risks are tied to leaving the undiluted acid on surfaces for extended times. Yet, vinegar, when diluted during wash cycles or for cleaning mixtures, does not pose a threat.
Cleaning professionals confirm that, after many years, using vinegar in this way has not led to damaged washing machines. To eliminate mould from your washing machine’s door seal, mix equal measures of warm water and clear vinegar. Dampen a cloth with the mixture, then scrub the seal.
Push the solution into the mould, wait for 15 minutes, then wipe it off with another clean, damp cloth soaked in warm water. White vinegar has been hailed as an effective solution for tackling mould in various sections of your washing machine.
For machines that allow it, you can fill the drawer with two cups of white vinegar and operate the hottest cycle while the machine is empty. The experts added: “It’s an environmentally friendly and cheap way to keep your machine clean, killing bacteria and mould and preventing limescale.”
Nonetheless, should your warranty terms prohibit the use of vinegar, it’s recommended you choose a specialized commercial machine cleaner as an alternative.