Let’s face it—washing machine seals aren’t the most glamorous part of your home. But they play a vital role in keeping your laundry fresh and your machine running smoothly. That rubber ring you see around the door is called the washing machine seal (or gasket), and it’s a magnet for mould, mildew, and grime.
Cleaning it may not be your favourite task, but with a few easy steps, it’s entirely manageable. Whether you’re dealing with mould or just aiming for a fresh-smelling machine, Wecasa expert house cleaners are here with this ultimate cleaning guide to help.
Why Clean Your Washing Machine Seal?
Not cleaning your washing machine seal can lead to a build-up of moisture, detergent, fabric softener, and grime—often resulting in unpleasant smells, mould, and dirty laundry.
- Bad odours coming from the drum
- Black mould spots around the rubber folds
- Residue on freshly washed clothes
- Reduced lifespan of your machine
A clean seal not only keep your washing machine from smelling bad, but also prevents long-term damage. Plus, regular cleaning saves you from costly repairs and deep cleans down the line.
Best Way to Clean Your Washing Machine Seal: Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Regular Maintenance Cleaning
Routine cleaning is the easiest way to keep your washing machine seal fresh, hygienic, and free from unpleasant surprises. It helps stop grime from building up and makes deeper cleans much quicker and easier.
What you’ll need:
- A soft microfibre cloth or sponge (avoid anything abrasive)
- Mild liquid detergent or washing-up liquid
- A bowl of warm (not hot) water
- A dry, clean towel
Step-by-step cleaning method
- Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of your chosen detergent. Stir it gently to create a soapy mix. Warm water helps loosen grime more effectively than cold water.
- Dip your cloth or sponge into the solution and wring it out slightly—it should be damp, not dripping.
- Gently clean around the visible part of the rubber seal. Don’t rush—pay attention to the areas where soap residue tends to sit.
- Carefully pull back the rubber folds to reveal hidden areas. These tucked-away spots are where lint, hair, detergent, and even mould love to gather. Wipe thoroughly inside each fold, re-dipping your cloth in soapy water as needed.
- Use a separate damp cloth or a fresh bowl of clean water to rinse off any leftover soap. This step prevents residue from drying into a sticky film.
- Use a clean towel to dry the seal, including inside the folds. This is crucial—moisture is mould’s best friend!
How to remove black mould and mildew from your washing machine door seal?
What you’ll need:
- White vinegar (natural and effective) or a commercial mould remover
- A spray bottle (for even coverage)
- An old toothbrush or small scrubbing brush
- A clean, damp cloth for wiping
Step-by-step:
- Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar or your chosen mould remover. Spray directly onto the affected areas of the seal, making sure to lift the rubber folds and reach any hidden mould lurking underneath. Soak the mould spots well—don’t skimp!
- Leave it for 10 to 15 minutes. This gives the vinegar time to break down the mould and loosen its grip on the rubber.
- Using your old toothbrush, scrub along the rubber seal and into the folds. Focus on the mould spots, but also give a once-over to surrounding areas to catch any invisible spores. The bristles help get into tight corners without damaging the rubber.
- Use a damp microfibre cloth to remove the loosened mould and any leftover vinegar or product. Rinse the cloth and go over it again to ensure everything’s clean.
- Always finish by drying the seal with a towel. Leaving it wet invites the mould to return, undoing all your hard work.
Cleaning the Rubber Folds
The folds in your washing machine’s rubber seal are often overlooked—but they’re a hotspot for hidden grime, mould, and nasty smells. If your machine smells musty or your clothes don’t feel as fresh, this is the first place to check. Taking a few extra minutes to clean the folds can make a big difference to both hygiene and freshness.
Steps to take:
- Open the washing machine door and carefully peel back the rubber seal with your fingers. Most seals have a few layers or folds, so be sure to check thoroughly.
- Soak a clean cloth or sponge in warm water mixed with white vinegar or mild detergent. Carefully work it inside each fold, wiping away any grime, build-up, or mildew you spot. For tighter areas, a cotton bud or an old toothbrush can help get into tricky spots.
- Once the dirt is lifted, go over the area again with a separate damp cloth soaked in clean water. This removes any leftover product or residue that could cause irritation or further build-up.
- Lastly, use a dry microfibre towel or paper towel to dry the seal, including all the folds.
Pro tip: Make a habit of checking the folds once a week. It’s a tiny job that takes less than five minutes and can prevent a lot of future hassle.
Prevention and Maintenance Tips
Keeping your washing machine seal clean doesn’t have to be a big job—especially if you stay ahead of the grime. A little regular care goes a long way in avoiding black mould, bad smells, and costly repairs.
Regular Cleaning Schedule
The most effective way to maintain your washing machine seal is by building it into your weekly routine.
- Weekly cleaning: A quick wipe with warm soapy water keeps grime, detergent residue, and hidden debris at bay.
- Monthly deep clean: Once a month, give the seal a more thorough scrub, check inside the folds, and run a hot empty wash cycle with white vinegar or a machine cleaner.
You can even set a calendar reminder or add it to your household checklist—it only takes a few minutes but can extend the life of your appliance by years.
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, DIY just doesn’t cut it.
Call in a pro when:
- The mould keeps coming back despite regular cleaning
- The seal is visibly damaged
- You notice leaks or strange odours that won’t go away
Wecasa can connect you with trusted home cleaning professionals who know their way around appliance care. Let us help take the stress out of your routine!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best cleaning solution for mould?
A mixture of white vinegar and baking soda creates a powerful natural solution against mold. Mix equal parts in a spray bottle and apply directly to affected areas. For stubborn black spots, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the seal, and let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping clean.
Natural tea tree oil offers another effective option. Mix 10 drops with water in a spray bottle, spray onto the seal, and wipe after 15 minutes. This solution naturally fights mold while leaving a fresh scent.
Can I use bleach on my washing machine seal?
While bleach can effectively remove mould from washing machine seals, use it with caution. Mix one part bleach with four parts water to create a safe cleaning solution. Never apply pure bleach directly as this may damage the rubber material. Apply the diluted solution using a cloth, letting it sit for 10-15 minutes before wiping clean with fresh water.
How do I prevent mould growth?
To prevent mould growth, wipe the seal dry after each wash and leave the door slightly open to let air circulate. Clean the seal weekly with warm soapy water or vinegar, and run a hot empty wash once a month. These small habits make a big difference in keeping mould away.
Feeling swamped by household chores? Take a deep breath—Wecasa’s got your back. Our trusted house cleaners are just a few clicks away, ready to bring calm and sparkle to your home. Book your session today, then sit back, relax, and enjoy a spotless home—without lifting a finger.
