Cleaning the washing machine’s rubber seal if it's dirty

Issue

• How to clean the washing machine's rubber seal?
• Dark mould spots on the washing machine seal

Applies to

• washing machines

Resolution

We recommend you clean the door seal every two months, using ammonia cream cleanser agent without scratching the seal surface.

Also, use the sodium carbonate on the drum in order to clean the seal.

Warning: Use extreme caution – when using sodium carbonate! Sodium carbonate irritates the skin and mucous membranes.

Alternatively, use the special Zanussi/Electrolux cleaner for washing machines, which is available in our webshop here.

If you only run colder cycles or quick wash cycles then you will be more likely to get mould on the seal. Ensure you are running hotter cycles (60°C or more) with the machine empty on a regular basis (maintenance wash).

We also recommend after every wash to wipe the seal down with a dry cloth and leave the washing machine door open to allow the machine to dry out.

If mould does not disappear with cleaning, then the seal will need to be replaced and can be purchased from our webshop here.

The seal will need to be installed by a professional technician, do not attempt to replace on your own.

Cause

• Constant washing at low temperatures and excessive use of detergents (enzyme-based) can lead to a build-up of mould and gel-like dirt in the door seal, pipes and drum. It can block hoses, cause a bad smell in the washing machine and even leave deposits on the laundry.
• Using too much detergent or regular washing at a low temperature. If you only wash at temperatures of 40°C or less, detergent residue and dirt will accumulate in the washing machine. This may lead to dirt, stains or greasy deposits on the seal.