Why is the rubber on my washing machine black?

Author: Darrel Greenholt  |  Last update: Saturday, June 7, 2025

The rubber on a washing machine turning black is often caused by mould or mildew growth, which thrives in moist and warm environments.

How do I get the black stuff off my washing machine rubber?

Comments Section spray cleaning vinegar undiluted on the seal, and then clean with a hot towel. then run your washing machine with just vinegar and hot water. All of what u/tinylilcaterpillar said and never shut the door when you are through using the machine. If it is a humid day then you can wipe the seal dry, too.

Why is the door seal on my washing machine going black?

If you do replace the seal then you need to keep up with the hot wash once a month with it empty and if you can when not in use leave the door open as this stops the build up of bacteria which causes the black marks.

How do you remove black mold from rubber?

Some common solutions for cleaning mold from rubber surfaces include vinegar, baking soda, detergent, or chemicals such as bleach.

How do I stop my washing machine from getting black mould?

What can I do to prevent mold from growing in my washing machine?
  • Leave the lid and the detergent tray open when the machine is off.
  • Wipe down the seals after washing clothing to remove any moisture.
  • Use the right detergent.
  • Use EC3 Laundry Additive with every use.
  • Maintain indoor humidity between 30-50%.

How To Get Rid of Black Mould on a Washing Machine Rubber Naturally (QUICK & CHEAP)

Is it safe to use a washing machine with black mold?

Is Black Mould in Washing Machines Dangerous? Having black mould in your washing machine may seem harmless, but it could pose serious risks to your health and the appliance itself.

How to get black mold out of washing machine seal consumer report?

Run the tub-clean feature regularly. If your washer doesn't have that feature, run an empty washer on the hottest water temperature setting with a cup of bleach. After the last load of the day, dry the inside of the door and the rubber gasket, carefully pulling it back to clean away residue.

What cleans black rubber?

Spray some WD-40 onto a soft rag, then gently rub the black marks off. It takes virtually no effort and absolutey no pressure to push down with your finger. Afterwards, wash the car as you would normally do.

How do you get rid of black mould permanently?

Using vinegar could not be simpler. All you need to do is spray it directly on to the affected area, or alternatively, spray the vinegar on to a rag and then apply it on the mould this way. Wait for around 15 minutes, do it again and then finish off by wiping the area clean with a damp rag.

How to clean the rubber on a front load washer?

Mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar: Fill a spray bottle with the solution and saturate the rubber seal, focusing on areas with mold or mildew. Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes: This allows the vinegar to break down the mold and dirt on the rubber seal.

How do I keep mold off my washing machine seal?

Keep the door open: Leaving the washing machine door slightly ajar when it's not in use allows air to circulate and helps prevent the growth of mould and mildew. This simple routine significantly reduces the chances of mould developing on the rubber seal.

Why does my top load washer leave black marks?

Key Takeaways. Washing machines can leave stains on clothes due to issues like a dirty drum, old or moldy gaskets, damaged drive belts, worn-out ball bearings, chipped enamel rusting or improper distribution of fabric softener.

Why does rubber go black?

Here's why: High Moisture Retention: Rubber tends to hold moisture, creating a perfect environment for mold. Lack of Air Circulation: The dense material restricts airflow, aiding mold growth.

Can you remove rubber seal from front load washer?

Most door seals are fitted with a plastic retaining spring or band that will need to be removed away before the seal can be removed. Using a flat-head screwdriver, pry away from the around the rim and pull entirely off the seal.

How do you clean sticky black rubber?

Instructions:
  1. Wet a cloth with warm water and add a drop of dish soap and work it through the cloth.
  2. Work the cloth over the rubber to remove the sticky residue.
  3. Rinse with water and check.
  4. If the stickiness lingers, create a paste of baking soda and water.
  5. Add the paste over the sticky area.

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

How to Clean Black Mould off Washing Machine Seal
  1. 1 Ensure the machine is empty and dry.
  2. 2 Put on protective gloves.
  3. 3 Spray a small amount of bleach-based mould cleaner onto a microfibre cloth. ...
  4. 4 Make sure you get into the folds of the rubber seal with the microfibre cloth to wipe the black mould away.

How does rubber turn black?

Today, the most common rubber color is black because carbon black is the most popular rubber additive. Carbon black improves physical and chemical properties, and its coloring is so strong that the tiniest bit will turn an entire part black.

How to get rid of black mold in washing machine front load?

Washing machine has a mildew smell or visible mold
  1. Run a Spin-only cycle. ...
  2. Add chlorine bleach. ...
  3. Choose a Self Clean cycle. ...
  4. Wipe down the tub. ...
  5. Run a Rinse+Spin cycle. ...
  6. Allow the washing machine to dry. ...
  7. Clean the pump filter (front load models only). ...
  8. Request service.

Does bleach damage rubber seals in a washing machine?

For an extra deep clean (if necessary): Repeat the process using a solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 4 parts water), but only in extreme cases. Bleach can damage the rubber seal if used too frequently. Always wear gloves and ensure proper ventilation when using bleach.

Do all front load washers have mold problems?

They Might Require Extra Care. Thirteen percent of all front-load washer owners reported mold or mildew buildup in their machines compared with only 3 percent of HE top-load washers and 1 percent of top-load agitators.

What is the best laundry detergent for black mold?

Remedy by CitriSafe Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent fights mold in clothing and bedding! CitriSafe is especially helpful for washing clothes worn during a mold clean-up job, but can be used for all your laundry needs.

Can you take the rubber seal off a washing machine to clean it?

Carefully wipe around the rubber seals, making sure you do not lift the seals away from the metal. If any dirt remains, use a toothbrush to scrub the surface. Top Tip: To keep your machine in top condition, look out for self-cleaning functions.

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