Difficulty Level
Time Required
20 minutesTools Checklist
Why Should I Check the Rubber Gasket on My Front-Load Washing Machine?
Front-load washing machines are built for efficiency. Compared to top-load washing machines, a front-load model uses around one-third of the energy and water. One of the most essential parts of front-load washing machines is the large rubber gasket around the door. This gasket prevents water from flowing out of the washer when in use. To ensure your front-load washer machine lasts for years, it is important to check to make sure that there is no damage or mold buildup in this gasket. If that does occur, then it could be detrimental to the efficiency of the entire washing machine.
What Happens If I Don’t Check the Rubber Gasket on My Front-Load Washing Machine?
No one wants to deal with water pouring out of their washing machine any time they try to do a load of laundry. Therefore, it is a good practice to keep the door open when not in use.This will keep the inside of the washer dry and prevent mold or water damage on the door gasket. Any prolonged water sitting in the rubber gasket will eventually cause mold or mildew to grow. This will severely damage the appliance. When mold and mildew is left unchecked, it will eat away at the rubber gasket causing it to be ineffective and leak smelly water. If the rubber gasket is not regularly checked and mold has grown and caused rippage, then you will be forced to replace the gasket or risk water leakage in your house.
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Checking the Rubber Gasket on a Front-Load Washing Machine
Step-By-Step
- 1. Prepare door gasket.
First, before you do anything, it is important to make sure that your washing machine is off. Once you are sure that your washer is off, open the front-load door and make sure it is completely empty.
You can check the entire rubber gasket by turning it outward. By pressing down on the rubber gasket, you can remove any foreign objects you may find in the gasket. It is typical that items such as socks, hardened soap, or even leftover detergent may be found here. You may also find mold forming along the gasket. If this is the case, inspect it thoroughly to see if any areas may be stained or discolored.
If you find any area of the rubber gasket stained then proceed to the next steps on how to clean it properly.
Next Step
- 2. Combine cleaning solution.
Now that you have checked the rubber gasket, it is time to clean it. Since you will be working with bleach to clean the gasket, it is very important to put safety first!! Put on rubber gloves.
Once the gloves are on, carefully combine ¾ cups of liquid chlorine bleach with 1 gallon of warm water. Always check with the bleach bottle to make sure you are using it properly.
Next Step
- 3. Wipe area with dilute solution.
Now that the cleaning solution is ready, dip a washcloth in the solution and carefully wipe down the surface of the gasket. Then, pull the rubber gasket back and wipe down both the inside and the outside. Cleaning the whole area will help prevent and remove any mildew that has formed.
After the whole area has been fully wiped down, let the cleaning solution just sit on the gasket for 10 minutes.
Next Step
- 4. Let washing machine dry.
Use a clean washcloth to remove the cleaning solution from the gasket. Lastly, leave the washing machine door open to allow the inside to fully dry.
That’s it! Congratulations! You have successfully checked and cleaned the rubber gasket on your front-load washing machine.