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Unlikely spot mould is growing in your washing machine

"Stop whatever you are doing now and listen to this message."
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There’s probably mould growing in your washing machine and not in the spot you think.

Watch: Laundry hack will save you hours

Taking to Tik Tok to share this PSA, Carolina McCauley says if you take out the little tray where you put your detergent, there’s probably a bunch of germs behind it. 

“Stop whatever you are doing now and listen to this message,” says the video’s caption.  

cleaning washing machine
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

In the TikTok video, Carolina says, “Did you know your washing machine tray is probably mouldy? Remove and clean it every three weeks to prevent this from happening.”

She recommends removing the tray and cleaning it every three weeks with soapy water and an old toothbrush to prevent mould growth. 

clean washing machine
(Credit: Tik Tok/@carolina.mccauley) (Credit: Tik Tok/@carolina.mccauley)

Commenters loved this laundry reminder, with some adding their own tips for keeping the detergent dispenser clean.

“Always open the drawer and the door of my washing machine. It is in my bathroom and has NO mould,” one user commented.

Another says: “Remove the tray after every use, flip it upside down, put it in the actual machine, and leave the door open.”

One person wanted more advice on keeping her washing machine mould free. 

“Can you please do a video on how to clean the seal around the door to prevent mould?” she asked. 

Which is an excellent question.

clean washing machine seal
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

How to clean the seal around the washing machine

Mould is more likely to grow in the seal around the door if you run cold cycles more often than hot. While many people choose to wash their clothes in cold water, hot water can help to kill bacteria.

Another cause is using too much detergent with your cold wash cycle.

According to the Electrolux website, “Constant washing at low temperatures and excessive use of detergents (enzyme-based) can lead to a build-up of mould and gel-like dirt in the door seal, pipes and drum. 

“It can block hoses, cause a bad smell in the washing machine and even leave deposits on the laundry.”

They recommend cleaning the seal every two months with an ammonia-based cleaner. 

If you’re after a more natural way to clean your washing machine, you can also resort to everyone’s go-to, vinegar and bi-carb soda. Read our guide for cleaning a washing properly

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