Limescale and mould are stubborn nuisances in our homes, often creeping into the nooks and crannies of washing machines. They’re not just an eyesore and a hygiene issue – they can also leave your laundry smelling musty.
Wondering how you can fight off that dreaded black growth and limescale spots? The Smol experts have a hot tip: white vinegar could be your cleaning superhero. Forget bleach – despite common belief, these cleaning maestros assert that “vinegar kills mould more effectively than bleach”.
They go on to explain that while “Bleach only kills mould spores on the surface of affected materials whereas vinegar can penetrate porous materials, killing mould at its root.”
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However, there’s been some worry about vinegar damaging washing machines if used incorrectly. The danger stems from leaving pure acid on surfaces for too long, reports the Express.
Yet when it’s used diluted in wash cycles or as part of a cleaning solution wiped away afterwards, it’s harmless. Years of using vinegar in this way haven’t wrecked any washing machines, according to the pros.
How to use white vinegar for cleaning
(Image: (Image: EXPRESS))
To get rid of that unsightly mould on your machine’s door seal, whip up a half-and-half solution of warm water and clear vinegar, soak a cloth in the solution, and give the seal a good wipe. Allow this mix to set into the mould for 15 minutes before rinsing off with a fresh, warm water-dampened cloth.
As for tackling other mould hideouts in your washer, turn to white vinegar for an effective cleanse.
For machines that allow it, pour two cups of white vinegar into the drawer and run the hottest cycle without laundry. Experts recommend: “It’s an environmentally friendly and cheap way to keep your machine clean, killing bacteria and mould and preventing limescale.”
If using vinegar invalidates your warranty, consider using a commercial cleaner designed for washing machines instead.