A seemingly harmless habit could actually be nurturing millions of mold spores in your home!

Do you often leave the washing machine door closed right after finishing a load and rush off to do something else? What seems like a trivial action could be fostering millions of mold spores. Recently, a housewife noticed that freshly washed clothes smelled strange and her skin became unusually itchy. Upon inspection, she found that the rubber seal of her washing machine was covered in black mold. This is not an isolated case. According to a survey by the China Household Electrical Appliances Research Institute, more than 60% of washing machines in Chinese households had mold levels exceeding safety standards.

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The “Invisible Killer” in Washing Machines

- Moist environments are perfect for mold:
Closing the lid immediately after washing creates a sealed environment with leftover water, leading to humidity levels above 90%. Under these conditions, mold can grow up to 20 times faster than in a dry environment, forming colonies in as little as three days.

- Detergent residue feeds bacteria:
Using too much detergent leaves sticky residues that serve as a nutrient source for microorganisms. Fabric softeners can accumulate in hard-to-reach corners, promoting bacterial growth.

- Mixing underwear with outerwear can cause cross-contamination:
Fungi like Trichophyton from socks or E. coli from underwear can spread to other clothes if washed together. Experiments show that cross-contamination rates can reach up to 45% in mixed loads.

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Three Dangerous Laundry Habits

1. Closing the lid immediately after washing:
   This is a big mistake! Always leave the lid open for at least 2 hours after a wash and wipe the drum edges with a clean towel. For machines with drying functions, wait until the drum fully cools before closing the lid.

2. Neglecting to clean the detergent drawer:
   Remove and clean the detergent compartment once a month. Soaking it in water mixed with baking soda helps dissolve leftover residues. Also, check the fabric softener hose to ensure it isn’t clogged.

3. Ignoring the wastewater filter:
   Most washing machines have a drain filter at the lower right corner. Clean it every three months—you might be surprised to find coins, buttons, or even small toys inside.

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Deep Cleaning Tips for Your Washing Machine

• Use the hot water cycle regularly:
  Run a 90°C (194°F) cycle once a month to kill up to 99% of harmful bacteria. If your machine doesn’t have this function, soak parts in 60°C (140°F) water mixed with white vinegar.

• Use hydrogen peroxide for deep disinfection:
  Apply 3% hydrogen peroxide to a cloth and carefully wipe the rubber seals, especially the folds. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then wipe again. This is highly effective against stubborn mold.

• Use specialized washing machine cleaners periodically:
  Choose products containing sodium percarbonate and use them once a month. Opt for low-foam types to avoid damaging the electronic components.

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Healthy Habits to Maintain

• Wash underwear and socks separately:
  Use a dedicated laundry bag and water temperature of at least 40°C (104°F). People with sensitive skin should hand wash underwear to avoid irritation.

• Remove clothes immediately after washing:
  Wet clothes left in the drum for over an hour allow bacteria to multiply again. Setting a phone reminder can help.

• Check the rubber seal regularly:
  If the rubber seal is cracked or hardened, replace it immediately. After wiping it dry, applying a little talcum powder can help prevent moisture buildup.

A study by the University of Tokyo found that proper maintenance can reduce bacteria in washing machines by 86%.

Remember, paying attention to these small details is not overreacting—it’s taking responsibility for your family’s health. Starting today, give your household’s “silent cleaning hero,” the washing machine, a thorough cleaning. You’ll notice a fresh, pleasant scent on your clothes like never before!