Mold in the Washing Machine Drawer: Why It Forms and How to Get Rid of It

If you’ve noticed a musty smell or black spots inside your washing machine drawer, chances are you’re dealing with mold. This unpleasant problem can not only affect your machine’s performance but also leave your clothes smelling bad after washing. Luckily, mold in the washing machine drawer is a common issue that can be easily tackled with a few simple steps. In this article, we’ll explore why mold forms in your washing machine drawer and how you can effectively remove it for a fresh and clean laundry experience.

Why Does Mold Form in the Washing Machine Drawer?

Before we dive into how to remove mold, it’s important to understand why it forms in the first place. Mold thrives in damp, warm environments, and the washing machine drawer is the perfect place for it to grow. Here are some key factors that contribute to mold buildup:

Excess Moisture: After each wash, water remains in the detergent drawer and in the rubber seals around the door. If the drawer is not fully cleaned and dried, this moisture creates an ideal breeding ground for mold.
Detergent Residue: Over time, detergent, fabric softener, and bleach can leave behind residue in the drawer. When this residue mixes with the moisture, it can feed mold spores and cause them to grow.
Poor Ventilation: Washing machines, especially front-loaders, often have poor ventilation in their drawers. If you leave the drawer closed after a wash, the moisture and humidity build up inside, promoting mold growth.
Infrequent Cleaning: Mold can easily take hold in a washing machine drawer if you don’t clean it regularly. The buildup of detergent, fabric softener, and grime provides the perfect conditions for mold to grow.

How to Get Rid of Mold in the Washing Machine Drawer

Now that you know why mold forms, let’s take a look at how to get rid of it. Cleaning your washing machine drawer and the surrounding areas requires a few simple steps and household ingredients. Here’s how you can effectively remove the mold and keep your machine fresh.

Step 1: Remove the Drawer

Start by pulling out the detergent drawer from the washing machine. Most drawers can be removed by gently pulling it out, but some may have a release button or latch. If you’re unsure how to remove the drawer, consult your washing machine’s manual.

Step 2: Clean the Drawer with Soapy Water

Once the drawer is out, use warm, soapy water to clean it thoroughly. Scrub the entire drawer, paying special attention to any crevices where detergent and fabric softener might have built up. You can use a sponge, cloth, or an old toothbrush to scrub the moldy areas. For stubborn mold, add a bit of baking soda to the water for extra cleaning power.

Step 3: Use Vinegar or Bleach for Mold Removal

If soap and water don’t fully get rid of the mold, you can try using white vinegar or bleach to disinfect and eliminate the mold.

Vinegar: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution on the moldy spots in the drawer and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. The acid in vinegar will kill the mold and prevent it from coming back.
Bleach: If you prefer using bleach, mix a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Use gloves to protect your hands, and apply the bleach solution to the moldy areas. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water to remove any bleach residue.

Step 4: Clean the Washing Machine Compartment

After cleaning the drawer, don’t forget to clean the compartment where the drawer slides in. Mold can also grow in this area, so use a cloth or sponge soaked in the vinegar or bleach solution to wipe the inside of the drawer compartment. Pay special attention to any rubber seals and corners where moisture tends to accumulate.

For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends