Sarah stared at the black specks scattered across her washing machine drawer like unwelcome confetti. What started as a tiny dark spot last month had somehow multiplied into a full mould colony. The smell hit her first – that musty, damp odour that made her wrinkle her nose every time she added detergent.
She’d been ignoring it, hoping it would somehow disappear on its own. But when her freshly washed towels started coming out with that same unpleasant smell, she knew the mould had won this round. Sound familiar? You’re definitely not alone in this battle.
That innocent-looking black growth in your detergent drawer isn’t just an eyesore. It’s actively contaminating your laundry, spreading through your machine, and potentially affecting the air quality in your home. But here’s the good news – washing machine mould removal is completely doable with the right approach.
Why Your Washing Machine Drawer Becomes Mould’s Favourite Holiday Resort
Think about what happens in that little drawer after every wash cycle. It stays damp for hours, collects sticky residues from detergent and fabric softener, and most of us slam it shut immediately after adding our cleaning products. You’ve basically created a luxury spa for mould growth.
The detergent drawer ticks every box on mould’s wishlist: constant moisture, limited airflow, and plenty of organic matter to feed on from soap residues. It’s like rolling out the red carpet for unwanted guests.
“Mould doesn’t just stay put in the drawer,” explains microbiologist Dr. Rachel Chen. “Those tiny spores get carried by water throughout your entire washing machine, contaminating hoses, seals, and eventually your clothes.”
When mould releases spores, sensitive people might experience sneezing, watery eyes, or skin irritation. In humid homes, some folks report persistent coughing or that burning sensation in their eyes. If your “clean” laundry smells musty, that neglected drawer is probably the real culprit, not your washing machine drum.
The Complete Washing Machine Mould Removal Strategy
Before you grab every cleaning product under your sink, stop. The biggest mistake people make is creating dangerous chemical cocktails. Never mix bleach with vinegar or other acidic cleaners – this combination releases chlorine gas that can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat.
Here’s your step-by-step washing machine mould removal plan:
| Step | Action | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Remove drawer completely | 2 minutes |
| 2 | Soak in hot water and detergent | 15 minutes |
| 3 | Scrub with old toothbrush | 5 minutes |
| 4 | Clean drawer cavity in machine | 10 minutes |
| 5 | Rinse and dry thoroughly | 5 minutes |
Most modern washing machines have a release mechanism on the drawer. Look for a small catch or button about halfway along the runner – it might be marked “Push” or appear in a different colour. Pull the drawer out as far as it goes, press this catch, and the drawer should slide out completely.
Once you’ve got the drawer out, fill your sink with hot water and add regular washing powder. Let the drawer soak for about 15 minutes. The heat and detergent will start breaking down both the mould and the sticky residues that feed it.
Grab an old toothbrush and work on the stubborn spots. Pay special attention to the corners and any grooves where mould loves to hide. You don’t need industrial-strength chemicals – gentle scrubbing with your regular detergent often does the trick.
“Most people are surprised how effective basic hot water and detergent can be against mould,” notes cleaning specialist Maria Santos. “The key is thorough scrubbing and proper drying, not harsh chemicals.”
Don’t forget about the cavity where the drawer sits. Use a damp cloth with a bit of detergent to wipe down all the surfaces you can reach. A cotton bud works brilliantly for getting into tight corners and crevices.
Stopping Mould From Making a Comeback
Cleaning the mould is only half the battle. Without changing your habits, you’ll be back to square one within weeks. The secret to long-term success lies in disrupting mould’s perfect growing conditions.
After each wash, leave your detergent drawer open for at least an hour. This simple habit allows air to circulate and moisture to evaporate, making the environment far less appealing to mould spores.
- Leave the drawer open after every wash cycle
- Wipe down the drawer weekly with a dry cloth
- Use powder detergent occasionally instead of always using liquid
- Don’t overfill compartments – excess product creates more residue
- Run an empty hot wash monthly with just detergent
- Keep your laundry room well-ventilated
Consider switching up your detergent routine occasionally. Powder detergents leave less sticky residue than liquids, giving mould less to feed on. You don’t need to switch permanently – just mix it up once or twice a month.
“Prevention really is better than cure when it comes to washing machine mould,” advises appliance technician James Mitchell. “A few simple habits save you hours of scrubbing later.”
That monthly empty hot wash acts like a deep clean for your entire machine. Add your regular detergent and run the hottest cycle available. This flushes out any lingering soap residues and kills off mould spores that might be lurking in your machine’s pipes and seals.
If you live in a particularly humid area, consider running a dehumidifier in your laundry room. High humidity levels make mould problems worse throughout your home, not just in your washing machine.
Remember, washing machine mould removal isn’t a one-time job – it’s about creating an environment where mould simply can’t thrive. With these simple changes to your routine, you’ll keep that drawer clean and fresh-smelling for good.
FAQs
How often should I clean my washing machine drawer?
Give it a thorough clean monthly and wipe it down weekly with a dry cloth after use.
Can I use bleach to remove mould from the drawer?
Yes, but never mix it with vinegar or other cleaners, and ensure good ventilation when using it.
Why does my drawer keep getting mouldy even after cleaning?
You’re probably not letting it dry properly after each wash – leave it open for at least an hour after every cycle.
Is washing machine mould dangerous?
It can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues in sensitive people, plus it makes your clothes smell musty.
What’s the best detergent to prevent mould buildup?
Powder detergents leave less sticky residue than liquids, so alternate between the two occasionally.
My drawer won’t come out – am I doing something wrong?
Look for a small release catch or button partway along the drawer runner and press it while pulling the drawer out.
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