How do I get rid of black mold in my washing machine?

Before you begin, ensure the washing machine is unplugged from the power source to avoid accidents.

Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from mold spores and cleaning chemicals.

Remove any removable parts such as the detergent dispenser, fabric softener dispenser, and agitator (if applicable). Soak these parts in a solution of hot water and mild detergent. Scrub them with a brush to remove any mold or residue. Rinse thoroughly and allow them to air dry.

Use a clean cloth or sponge soaked in a solution of hot water and a mold-killing cleaner, such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide, to wipe down the interior surfaces of the washing machine, including the drum, tub, and any seals or gaskets where mold may be present. Pay close attention to crevices and hard-to-reach areas.

Fill the washing machine drum with hot water to the highest level. Add one cup of bleach to the water. Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can kill mold and mildew. Run the washing machine on a normal cycle with hot water and no laundry. This will help clean and disinfect the interior of the machine.

If mold persists in certain areas, you may need to scrub them with a mixture of bleach and water or a commercial mold-killing cleaner. Use a scrub brush or toothbrush to scrub away the mold, then wipe the area clean with a damp cloth.

After the bleach cycle is complete, run another cycle with hot water to rinse away any remaining bleach or cleaning solution.

Once you've completed the cleaning process, leave the washing machine door open and allow it to air dry completely. This will help prevent mold from returning.

To prevent mold from recurring, it's important to practice regular maintenance of your washing machine. This includes leaving the door open between cycles to allow air circulation, wiping down the drum and seals after each use, and running a cleaning cycle with bleach or a commercial washing machine cleaner once a month.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove black mold from your washing machine and prevent it from returning.