Between school uniforms, sports kits, muddy adventures, dirty baby bibs, and toddler chaos, it can feel like your washing machine never stops—especially in a busy family home. While we’re a plumbing firm and don’t typically deal with washing machines themselves, after many years of working in homes across London and the surrounding areas, we’ve picked up a few useful tips—like how to clean the seal on your washing machine, to keep things running (and smelling) fresh.
How To Clean The Seal On A Washing Machine
Why Should I Clean The Rubber Seal In My Washing Machine?
Don’t let nasty smells ruin your fresh washing…
If your washing machine smells less than fresh—even after a cycle—you’re not imagining it. One of the biggest culprits is the rubber seal. This often-overlooked part of your machine is a magnet for trapped moisture, detergent residue, lint, and even the odd forgotten sock or loose change that has escaped from trouser pockets! Over time, this creates the perfect breeding ground for mould, mildew, and bacteria—and that leads to unpleasant odours, musty-smelling laundry, and potentially even skin irritation.
Cleaning the rubber seal in your washing machine regularly isn’t just about appearances—it’s about health and hygiene. A dirty seal can transfer grime and germs onto your clothes, towels, and bedding, undoing all the hard work of your wash cycle.
So, if you’ve noticed a musty smell lately or your freshly washed clothes don’t quite smell right, read on…
What You’ll Need
- Gloves
- Clean cloth or kitchen roll – for wiping the seal before and after cleaning
- Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) – approx. 250g (roughly 2 heaped tablespoons for the drum and seal, plus 3–4 heaped tablespoons for the detergent drawer)
- Bleach – approx. 240ml (about a tea mug full)
- Washing-up liquid – a few squirts to make a soapy solution
- Small bowl or container – for mixing the warm soapy water
- Measuring jug or mug – to help portion the bleach and bicarb (optional)
How To Clean the Seal on a Washing Machine in 5 Easy Steps
A simple step-by-step using everyday household items
Wipe Away Loose Dirt
Use a dry cloth or kitchen roll to wipe around the rubber seal, removing any visible grime, lint, or debris.
Add Cleaning Ingredients
Sprinkle 2 heaped tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda into the drum and gently press some into the seal.
In the detergent drawer, pour in approximately 240ml of bleach (roughly one mugful) and add another 3–4 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda.
Run a Hot Wash
Set the machine to a hot cycle (90°C) and let it run. This helps break down mould, bacteria, and any stubborn residue.
Wipe the Seal Again
Once the cycle is complete, mix a bowl of warm water with a few squirts of washing-up liquid. Use a clean cloth to thoroughly wipe around the rubber seal. Any leftover mould or residue should come away easily now.
Final Rinse Cycle
Run one more empty hot wash to flush out any remaining bleach or bicarbonate of soda.
How Often Should I Clean My Washing Machine Seal
It’s sensible to give your machine a deep clean—including the rubber seal—every 1 to 3 months, depending on how often you use it. Regular maintenance keeps your machine smelling clean, running efficiently, and ensures your washing comes out as fresh as it should.
Maintenance And Prevention Tips
- Wipe the seal clean after each wash with a damp cloth to remove moisture and debris.
- Leave the door and detergent tray open when not in use to let them dry out completely.
- Perform a deep clean of the seal (following the steps above) every 1-3 months to maintain hygiene and keep odours at bay.
Tips for Running Your Washing Machine Efficiently
Save money, time, and the planet —with these smart laundry habits.
- Wash full loads (but don’t overload)
Only run your washing machine when you have a full load—this uses less water and energy per item. But don’t cram it to the top! Overloading means clothes won’t wash or rinse properly and can wear out your machine faster. - Use eco or quick wash settings
Modern machines often have eco-cycles or 30-minute washes that are perfect for lightly soiled clothes. These use less energy and still get the job done. - Drop the temperature
Unless you’re dealing with heavily stained items, most everyday laundry can be washed at 30°C or 40°C—cutting down your energy use by up to 40%. - Spin smart
A faster spin speed (like 1200–1400 rpm) extracts more water, reducing drying time and energy. Just be careful with delicate fabrics—check labels first. - Clean the machine regularly
A clean machine works more efficiently. Build-up in the drum, drawer, or rubber seal can make your machine work harder and less hygienically. See our guide on how to clean the seal on a washing machine to keep things fresh! - Use a washing basket system
Pre-sort lights, darks, and delicates into separate baskets to save time—and reduce the temptation to do multiple small loads throughout the week. - Plan a washing schedule
Set laundry days (e.g. towels on Tuesdays, bedding on Saturdays) so it doesn’t pile up. This keeps things manageable and avoids midweek panic loads. - Use the right amount of detergent
Using too much detergent creates excess foam, which can leave residue on clothes and in the machine. Stick to the recommended amount—your machine and wallet will thank you.
Related articles:
Tips For Avoiding A Clogged Washing Machine
How To Know If Your Washing Machine Drain Is Blocked
If you are having a plumbing or heating related problem and you are based within our service areas, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team are always happy to help if they can.