Washing machine

[missesbell]

No matter what I try, my washing machines get brown slimy bits accumulating around the drum. I don't overfill the machine and only have to wash filthy rugby kit once in a while which I usually pre wash in the sink first. Any ideas a)What am I doing wrong and b) How can I clean it up.

[Ethel]

This is probably a mould which is easily dealt with by wiping with a strong bleach solution, then running the machine at the hottest setting, with no washing, and using a biological powder (it must be powder) and no conditioner.

It is becoming more common as we wash on lower temperatures with non-biological washing detergents. There is nothing to kill bacteria which thrives in the warm, damp atmosphere.

All washing machine manufacturers now recommend running this 'empty cycle' once a month. I buy the cheapest bio powder I can find for just this purpose.

[shaneystar2]

On Aggie and Kim last night they told this person to run her machine on the hottest setting with a good handful of washing soda in the drum and then to run it again on the hottest setting after tipping a bottle of white vinegar into the drum.I have never seen such a filthy washing machine ..it was awful.. but it came up a treat .

[Athley]

I saw that too. They put the washing soda in the drawer though. I have tried this before with my machine and it does work. Also used the white vinegar and that works too also cleans the pipes apparently as its whooshing through.

[shaneystar2]

Trust me to get my drums and draws in a muddle !!

[chitchat]

I have been told that using fabric conditioner can cause a build up of black/brown sludge. It happens when the conditioner comes into contact with the washing powder. Now sure if thats right coz I dont use it anymore.