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Clear washing machine limescale and mould with one item ‘more effective than bleach' (Image: Getty)
Limescale and mould are persistent invaders in homes, often targeting the drum, drawer, heating element and door seal of washing machines.
Not only is it both unsightly and unhygienic, but the mould can also emit a musty odour affecting your laundry.
So how do you tackle the dreaded black growth and chalky stains? The experts at Smol suggest that white vinegar is the hero for this cleaning mission.
Contrary to some beliefs that bleach is the go-to solution, the specialists claim that "vinegar kills mould more effectively than bleach".
They further noted: "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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How to use white vinegar for cleaning (Image: EXPRESS)
Concerns have been raised about using vinegar in washing machines possibly leading to damage. This risk, however, is associated with leaving neat acid on a surface for prolonged periods.
Nevertheless, vinegar in diluted form during wash cycles or when making a solution to wipe off isn’t harmful.
The professionals confirmed that decades of such practice have not resulted in ruined washing machines.
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When diluted, vinegar will not damage your washing machine (Image: Getty)
To banish mould from a washing machine door seal, create a mix of equal parts warm water and clear vinegar. Take a cloth, soak it in the blend, and apply it to the seal.
Work the mixture into the mould, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then rinse away with a clean damp cloth dipped in warm water.
For combating mould in other areas of your washing machine, white vinegar proves to be an efficient remedy.
Place the vinegar in the drawer compartment (Image: Getty)
For machines that permit it, fill the drawer with two cups of white vinegar and run the hottest cycle with an empty load.
Experts advise: "It’s an environmentally friendly and cheap way to keep your machine clean, killing bacteria and mould and preventing limescale.”
However, if your warranty doesn’t allow vinegar use, opt for a commercial machine cleaner instead.
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