Mold is a common problem that many people face while doing laundry. Sometimes, even after washing the clothes, the mold remains on them. This can be a frustrating and disappointing experience. However, with a few simple steps, you can easily remove mold from clothes in your washing machine.
What Causes Mold in the Washing Machine?
Mold can grow in washing machines due to various reasons. One of the main reasons is the dampness of the machine. When the machine is not used frequently, water can accumulate in the drum, which creates a moist environment for mold to grow. Additionally, using too much detergent or fabric softener can also cause mold growth in the machine.
How to Identify Mold on Clothes
Mold can appear on clothes in various forms, such as black or green spots, white or gray patches, or discoloration. It can also cause a musty odor on clothes. If you notice any of these signs on your clothes, it’s likely that they have mold on them.
Steps to Remove Mold from Clothes in Washing Machine
Here are some steps that you can follow to remove mold from clothes in your washing machine:
Step 1: Preparing the Clothes
Before you start washing the clothes, it’s important to prepare them first. Firstly, separate the clothes that have mold on them from the ones that don’t. Secondly, brush off any visible mold from the clothes using a stiff-bristled brush. Lastly, pre-treat the clothes by soaking them in a solution of one cup of vinegar and one cup of water for at least one hour.
Step 2: Cleaning the Washing Machine
After preparing the clothes, it’s time to clean the washing machine. This is important to prevent mold growth in the future. Firstly, remove any visible mold from the machine’s drum using a cloth or sponge. Secondly, run a hot water cycle with two cups of vinegar and a cup of baking soda. Lastly, wipe down the machine’s interior with a cloth or sponge.
Step 3: Washing the Clothes
Now that the clothes and the washing machine are both prepared, it’s time to wash the clothes. Firstly, add the pre-treated clothes to the washing machine. Secondly, add the usual amount of detergent and fabric softener. Lastly, set the washing machine to the hottest possible setting and start the cycle.
Step 4: Drying the Clothes
After washing the clothes, it’s important to dry them properly. Firstly, remove the clothes from the washing machine and shake them out. Secondly, hang the clothes to dry in a well-ventilated area or in direct sunlight. Lastly, make sure that the clothes are completely dry before storing them.
Tips to Prevent Mold Growth in the Washing Machine
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent mold growth in your washing machine:
Tip 1: Use the Right Amount of Detergent and Fabric Softener
Using too much detergent or fabric softener can create a buildup of residue in the machine, which can lead to mold growth. Make sure to use the recommended amount of detergent and fabric softener for your machine and load size.
Tip 2: Leave the Door Open
After each wash, leave the washing machine’s door open to allow air to circulate and dry out the drum. This will prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.
Tip 3: Clean the Machine Regularly
Regularly clean the washing machine’s drum, detergent dispenser, and filter to prevent mold growth. Use a cloth or sponge and a cleaning solution of vinegar and water.
Conclusion
Mold can be a pesky problem, but with these simple steps, you can easily remove mold from clothes in your washing machine. It’s important to take preventive measures to avoid mold growth in the future. By following these tips, you can keep your washing machine and clothes mold-free.