Get a Mold Stain Remover That Works

If you’ve got a front-loading washing machine, it may have accumulated mold or mildew stains on the rubber seal around the opening. If that’s the case, you need a mold stain remover that actually works and I found one: Sugelary Mold & Mildew Remover. The proof is in the photos, below.

Even if you leave the washing machine door open 100% of the time, which I do, stains can still happen. Believe me, I know, which is why I went in search of a mold stain remover that would get the job done.

In This Post

• Why Washing Machine Mold Happens
• What’s in the Mold Remover Box
• How to Use It
• Washing Machine Mold Prevention
• Other Laundry Problems & Solutions

Why Washing Machine Mold Happens

The rubber seal around the opening of your washing machine is called a gasket and creates a tight seal when you close the door. After washing a load of laundry, the door needs to be left open so the machine can dry. If it’s not, lingering moisture and residue from laundry detergents become a breeding ground for mold.

To help you keep the door ajar without it being in the way or an eyesore, I’ve already researched several great gadgets for propping the washing machine door open. There are several styles to choose from.

What’s in the Box

The Sugelary Mold & Mildew Remover is sold as a single bottle or set of two. I purchased the two-bottle option and here’s what came in the box with images below (the single bottle box will have one of everything):

• Two 5 oz bottles of stain removing gel
• Two pointed tops with caps, for precision application
• Two sets of gloves (the little rectangles in the second pic are plastic gloves, which I did not use, I prefer my own snug-fitting nitrile gloves)
• Easy to follow instructions

How To Use It

The Mold & Mildew Remover is easy to use and, more importantly, effective. Start by swapping out the flat cap for the pointed one. Apply the gel to the affected area and, with a gloved hand, spread the gel to completely cover the stain. I preferred to use my own powder-free nitrile gloves, which work well for all sorts of tasks.

Set a timer for two hours. If the stain is not gone, let it sit longer. Once the stain is gone, with gloved hands, wipe the gel away with paper towels. Lastly, run an empty wash to remove any residual gel before washing clothes.

Washing Machine Mold Prevention

According to Consumer Reports, “there’s no guarantee that you can prevent mold from developing in a front-load washer. That said, doing nothing certainly won’t help. Your best bet? Follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.” Here’s an abbreviated version of their cheat sheet as to what various manufacturers and repair technicians recommend doing…

1. Combat Residue — It feeds mold. Skip fabric softener — which may produce residue — and use only high-efficiency (HE) detergents.
2. Remove Your Clean Laundry ASAP — Transfer wet clothes to the dryer as soon as the cycle ends to keep moisture from lingering.
3. Wipe the Door and Gasket — Use a rag to dry the inside of the door. Gently pull back the gasket, wipe it clean, then dry.
4. Leave the Door Open — Keep it ajar or wide open between loads to allow moisture to escape. If young children are present, lock the door to your laundry room.
   • As I mentioned above, I’ve already researched several great gadgets for propping the washing machine door open.
5. Mind the Detergent Drawer — Remove it and clean on a routine basis. Rinse the drawer with water, wipe away the soap buildup, then let it dry. Between loads, wipe it dry or leave the drawer open so that it can air out.
6. Run a Tub-Clean Cycle Regularly — The recommended frequency varies. If your washer doesn’t have this feature, run the sanitary cycle monthly using a washer cleaner with bleach, such as Tide Washing Machine Cleaner, monthly.
7. Ensure That the Machine is Level — Wash water will not drain properly if your washer isn’t perfectly level, so check it every so often.
8. Check the Drain Hose — It shouldn’t be too long and should be inserted only 6 to 8 inches into your home’s drain pipe, but check your manual for instructions specific to your machine.

I hope the above tips help prevent future mold or mildew stains once you get rid of them.

Other Laundry Problems & Solutions

All items are in stock at time of publication.