When last did you check the rubber seal on your washing machine's door? Unpleasant odors often emanate from here

For most of us, the washing machine is probably the most-used electrical appliance we own. But how often do we remember to check the machine's rubber door seal?

Out of direct line of sight, water can stagnate in the folds of the rubber door seal. This stagnant water creates the ideal conditions for the formation of a sort of a moldy "goop" which then starts to give off an unpleasant odor (which can also get into the laundry).

Cleaning the rubber door seal should be done frequently and is, fortunately, quite easy - read on to find out more:

Cleaning the rubber door seal: how often should it be done?

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The key is to ensure water does not stagnate in the seal. Leaving the washing machine's door open at the end of each wash cycle is one way to do this, as it allows the water in the seal to evaporate.

However, this is not always sufficient, so it is also good practice to remember to pass a soft cloth soaked in hydrogen peroxide or mild bleach around the insides of the rubber folds of the seal at least once a week.

Alternatively, you can also use a little baking soda which you should rub gently around the seal and its folds (rinsing away once done). You can also use white vinegar or regular bleach for this chore, but you need to dilute these first: both these products can ruin the rubber of the seal if used neat (and/or too frequently).

A deep-cleaning of the seal

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If you've neglected to clean the seal for a while, then it's best to do a deep-cleaning:

• Remove the bulk of dirt and "goop" with a soft, dry (or damp) cloth (which you can wash out later);
• Put on an empty wash, placing a cup of white vinegar in the detergent dispenser drawer, and half a glass of vinegar directly into the drum. Set the wash to a high temperature (60°C is recommended);
• At the end of the wash, get another damp cloth and some dishwashing liquid to rub around the inside the rubber folds of the seal. You can also add a teaspoon of baking soda as you do this. Once done, with a clean cloth, wipe around/inside the seal, removing any dirt and residue baking soda and dishwashing liquid as best you can

Deep-cleaning like this will only have to be done occasionally.

Also, remember that unpleasant odors could be coming from the detergent dispensing drawer and/or the filter. Both these components must also be checked (and cleaned) regularly. And a clean washing machine will last you longer!