How do I clean the mildew off my front loading washing machine?

Anne Marie Mule
by Anne Marie Mule
  6 answers
  • Lynn Sorrell Lynn Sorrell on Dec 22, 2018

    run load thru with bleach & hottest setting,leave door open when not using,white vinegar & hot water may need soft brush to get into crevices depending on where it(mold-mildew) is. Is it inside washer? outside? leave laundryroom door open to reduce moisture in room,use fan to circulate air in room to help reduce moisture buildup,leave dryer door open to reduce moisture build up,install exhaust in room

  • Kauai Breeze Kauai Breeze on Dec 22, 2018

    A mildew problem occurs when there is not enough air circulation to dry the area. I would begin by running a hot wash cycle containing a cup of bleach. Once that is done, take a rag and wet it with hot water and bleach. Wear gloves if you have them, clean all the areas of the door and seal where mildew grows. You may have to use a soft toothbrush for some areas. Be sure to pull the seal up and get into every crevice you can. Then let the washer open so it will dry thoroughly. (no need to rinse). In the future after washing, let the door of the washer open wide, at least overnight, to allow it to dry. You may notice lint and water laying in the seal. If this occurs use a toothpick or other small device to clear the lint from the drain holes which allow the water to drain out. This may need to be done frequently to avoid mildew from growing.

  • Craft Invaders Craft Invaders on Dec 22, 2018

    I use a solution of vinegar and water to clean my washing machine (glass and seals). Agree that leaving the door wide open helps too :)

  • Jeanette S Jeanette S on Dec 22, 2018

    If your washer has a clean cycle, run it a couple of times using bleach. If not, run a couple of regular cycles using bleach and hot water. This is done with an empty washer.


    You will have to use bleach and probably vinegar to wash under the gasket at the opening.


    Also, leave the door to the washer open at all times and if the washroom is closed off, leave that door open for a while after use. What people do is close the washroom door to make the place look neat and that traps moisture in a small area = mold!

  • Kmdreamer Kmdreamer on Dec 26, 2018

    Bleach try putting on a paper towel and see if you could get it to sit on the mildew

  • Karen | Decor Hint Karen | Decor Hint on Dec 26, 2018

    I use those affresh laundry tablets and run a clean washer cycle (or run a normal cycle with hot water setting) about once a month. I use a paper towel sprayed with vinegar/water mixture and wipe down the door, and inner gasket seal weekly. You can also take an old toothbrush to really get into those crevices around the gasket. Keep your washer door open between.washes to keep it smelling fresh and prevent mold and mildew.