How to Clean Mould from Washing Machine Drawer

Is your laundry machine emitting a musty or unpleasant odor? This is often a telltale sign of mold growth in your washing machine. While it might seem surprising to find mold in an appliance designed for cleaning, washing machine drawers provide the perfect environment for mold to thrive—they’re consistently damp, warm, and often poorly ventilated.

Fortunately, cleaning mold from your washing machine drawer isn’t as daunting as it might seem. With the right approach and common household ingredients, you can effectively eliminate mold and prevent it from returning.

Why Mold Grows in Washing Machine Drawers

Front-loading washing machines are particularly susceptible to mold problems. Unlike top-loading models, they:

• Take longer to dry completely after use
• Retain moisture for extended periods
• Have sealed compartments where air circulation is limited
• Contain detergent residue that can feed mold growth

These conditions create an ideal breeding ground for mold spores, which thrive in damp environments with organic material to feed on.

Signs Your Washing Machine Drawer Has Mold

Before you begin cleaning, confirm that mold is indeed the problem. Look for these indicators:

• Musty or unpleasant odors coming from the machine
• Visible black, green, or white spots in the drawer compartments
• Clothes that smell damp even after drying
• Allergic reactions when handling freshly washed clothing

Effective Home Remedies for Cleaning Mold

While commercial mold cleaners are available, natural home ingredients can be equally effective, more economical, and safer for your machine. Here are two proven methods using household items.

Method 1: White Vinegar Solution

White vinegar is a powerful natural cleaner that can eliminate approximately 80% of mold species and help prevent regrowth.

What You’ll Need:

• White vinegar
• Hot water
• Scrubbing brush or old toothbrush
• Microfiber cloth
• Optional: lemon juice or essential oils (to neutralize vinegar smell)

Steps:

1. Remove the drawer from your washing machine (consult your machine’s manual if unsure how to do this).

2. Create a vinegar solution by mixing 3 parts hot water with 1 part white vinegar in a container large enough to hold your washing machine drawer.

3. Submerge the drawer in the solution and let it soak for at least one hour.

4. Add fragrance neutralizers if desired: a few drops of lemon juice or essential oil can help offset the vinegar smell.

5. Scrub thoroughly with a brush, paying special attention to corners and crevices. An old toothbrush works well for hard-to-reach areas.

6. Rinse with warm water until all vinegar solution and loosened mold are removed.

7. Dry completely by wiping with a microfiber cloth and then allowing to air dry before reinserting into the machine.

Method 2: Baking Soda and Dish Liquid Combination

This method provides both cleaning and gentle abrasive action to remove stubborn mold.

What You’ll Need:

• Baking soda
• Dish liquid or kitchen cleaner
• Hot water
• Scrubbing sponge
• Old toothbrush
• Clean cloth

Steps:

1. Remove the drawer from your washing machine.

2. Fill a container large enough to submerge the drawer with hot water.

3. Add cleaning agents: two tablespoons of dish liquid or kitchen cleaner and one tablespoon of baking soda.

4. Mix until dissolved and bubbles begin to form.

5. Soak the drawer for 45 minutes.

6. Scrub gently with a sponge or soft brush. Use a toothbrush for corners, edges, and the ceiling of the drawer.

7. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

8. For stubborn mold: If mold remains, repeat the process and let the drawer soak overnight (up to 12 hours) before scrubbing again.

9. Dry completely before reinstalling in your washing machine.

Additional Mold-Fighting Solutions

If the methods above don’t completely resolve your mold issues, consider these alternatives:

• Hydrogen Peroxide: A 3% solution can be effective against mold and doesn’t leave residue.
• Rubbing Alcohol: Works well for sanitizing and quick drying.
• Bleach Solution: A diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) can kill surface mold, but use cautiously as it may damage some washing machine components.

Preventing Future Mold Growth

Once you’ve eliminated the mold, take these preventive measures:

1. Leave the drawer slightly open after each wash to allow airflow and drying.

2. Wipe down the drawer and rubber seals with a dry cloth after doing laundry.

3. Run a monthly maintenance cycle with hot water and vinegar (no clothes).

4. Use the correct amount of detergent to prevent buildup that feeds mold.

5. Consider using powder detergent instead of liquid, as it’s less likely to leave residue.

6. Run a hot water cycle periodically to kill mold spores.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’ve tried multiple cleaning methods without success, or if mold keeps returning quickly after cleaning, it might be time to consult a professional. Persistent mold could indicate:

• A deeper problem within the machine’s components
• Improper ventilation in your laundry area
• A need for professional-grade cleaning solutions

Conclusion

A moldy washing machine drawer doesn’t have to be a persistent problem. With these simple home remedies, you can effectively eliminate mold and keep your washing machine fresh and clean. Regular maintenance and preventive measures will ensure your laundry stays truly clean and your machine remains in optimal condition.

Remember that consistency is key—incorporate these cleaning methods into your regular household maintenance routine to prevent mold from returning and to extend the life of your washing machine.