4 Things to Know About Cleaning a Washing Machine Seal With Bleach

Use a diluted bleach solution Mix one tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water. This is strong enough to kill mold without damaging the rubber seal.

Rinse thoroughly after applying Wipe the interior and seal with the bleach solution, then rinse repeatedly with clean water. Brief contact is fine, but bleach should not sit on the seal for hours.

Avoid scrubbing with abrasive tools Do not use a brush or abrasive pad on the seal. Scrubbing is what actually damages the rubber, not the bleach itself.

Let the seal dry completely before closing Leave the washer door open until the seal is fully dry. Mold thrives in damp, dark spots, so drying prevents future growth.