Mold-Free Living: Expert Tips for Your Washing Machine, Dishwasher, Sinks and MORE

As a health blogger, I'm excited to share my top tips for maintaining a mold-free home, focusing on three key areas: front load washing machines, dishwashers, and sink maintenance. By following these simple yet effective tips, you'll be well on your way to a healthier, happier home.

Front Load Washing Machine Maintenance

Front load washers save space, but can be mold breeding grounds if you don’t know how to keep them dry and clean.

While I'm not a fan of front load washing machines, I understand they're a popular choice. There is on in my new home. To prevent mold growth in these machines, I follow these steps:

1. Wipe dry the rubber seal: After each use, take a moment to wipe the rubber seal dry with an old clean washcloth or hand towel. This simple habit can go a long way in preventing mold growth.

2. Leave the door open: Whenever possible, leave the door open to allow for airflow and drying. This will help prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of mold.

3. Use a fan: Place a fan at the door of the washing machine and run it to speed up the drying process. I like and use the Honeywell HT-904 TurboForce Tabletop Air Circulator Fan in White – A Quiet Personal Fan for Home or Office Use. It has 3 Speeds and a 90 Degree Pivoting Head. I aim it right at the door of my machine for best results.

4. Once a month use a Washing Machine Cleaner. I have tried Affresh, but my latest find is ACTIVE Dishwasher and Washing Machine Cleaners (separate products for each machine), formulated to deep clan, deodorize and protect. It is almost time to give this a try. I will let you know how it goes.

Dishwasher Maintenance

Dishwashers are great at sanitizing your dishes. Some of the better brands dry them beautifully as well. My personal favorite machine is by Bosch.

Your dishwasher though a super cleaner when in tip top shape, can be a breeding ground for mold if not properly maintained. One reason you really don’t want mold in your machine is that when you eat off the dishes that were cleaned in it, they have mold on them. This mold can punch holes in the lining of your digestive track and make you susceptible to autoimmune disease, as well as emotional imbalances, anxiety, gut health issues, and of course mold illness. Here's how to keep it mold-free:

1. Use the dry step: If your dishwasher has a dry step, make sure to use it. This will help prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of mold.

2. Open the door after use: If your dishwasher doesn't have a dry step or if it's not working effectively, open the door as soon as the cycle ends and leave it open for several hours to allow for drying.

This is one of my favorite non toxic cleaners. I use it on dishes and a wet rag to clean surfaces in my home.

3. Clean the filter: Regularly clean the filter in the bottom of your dishwasher (about once a month) to prevent debris and food particles from accumulating and creating a moldy environment. If you have never cleaned yours, you are in for a dirty job. I use Young Living Thieves Essential Oil Infused Dish Soap. The thieves in it is effective at cleaning moldy items. I’ll scrub the filter with a soft bristle brush as well as letting it soak in a bowl with the thieves dish soap before rinsing it and returning it to the dishwasher.

Sink Maintenance

Improperly installed sinks or sinks with leaks can be places for mold to hide.

Your sinks are another area where mold can easily grow because they stay wet or damp so much of the time. Here's how to keep them mold-free:

1. Dry around the lip: After each use, take a moment to dry around the lip of your sink. This is especially important if you don't have sufficient caulk or other materials to prevent water from seeping between the sink basin and countertop. (See photo above.)

2. Use a mat to catch leaks: Place a rubber mat under your sink to catch any leaks or drips. This will help prevent water from accumulating and reduce the risk of mold growth. I use the Under Sink Mats for Kitchen Waterproof, 34" X 22" Or Smaller Cut to Fit Under Sink Drip Tray for Kitchen or Bathroom Cabinets. It is a Silicone Liner that will hold up to 3.3 Gallons of Liquid protecting me even if a leak does begin. It gives me time to find the leak and provides an easy clean up if one does occur. I think this is a must have tool for under $30 for those of us who know we have issues with mold exposure.

Additional Tips for a Mold-Free Home

1. Regularly inspect for water damage: Check your home for any signs of water damage, such as leaks, stains, or warping, and address them promptly.

2. Use a dehumidifier: Consider using a dehumidifier in humid areas of your home, such as basements or bathrooms, to reduce moisture levels.

3. Clean and dry appliances: Regularly clean and dry appliances, such as your refrigerator and oven, to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.

4. Check for proper ventilation: Ensure that your home has proper ventilation, including functioning exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.

5. Monitor humidity levels: Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels in your home and take steps to reduce them if they get too high.

6. Clean and dry carpets and upholstery: Regularly clean and dry carpets and upholstery to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.

7. Don't forget about hidden areas: Pay attention to hidden areas, such as behind appliances and under sinks, where moisture can accumulate and mold can grow.

Bonus Tip: Let in Fresh Air!

On good air quality days, open the doors and windows of your home to let fresh air flow through. This simple habit can help reduce moisture buildup, prevent mold growth, and improve indoor air quality. Lay yourself, you clothes, sheets, papers out in the sun and let it do it’s work! The sun's UV rays act as a natural disinfectant, helping to kill bacteria, mold, and remove odors. Additionally, sun-dried sheets and clothes often have a pleasant, fresh smell and air drying is more environmentally friendly than using a dryer. (Not that I am suggesting you give up your dryer.) But an occasional sun drying it's a great way to give yourself and your home a breath of fresh air!

Conclusion

By following these simple tips, you'll be well on your way to maintaining a mold-free home. Remember, it takes a little extra time and effort, but the benefits to your health and well-being are well worth it.

Me feeling the best I have in over 20 years!

Share Your Tips!

Do you have any great tips for keeping your home mold-free? Share them with us in the comments below! Let's work together to create a healthier, happier living space.