Mould source, contribute to MGD

[Hopeful2]

I just read an old post about mould from the new front load washing machines.

A couple of days after my lasik surgery I emptied the washer and noticed a huge accumulation of crud/mould around the rubber rim. I am certain this is getting on our bedding and clothing and wonder if this could be contributing to MGD symptoms?

I have had the rubber rim replaced, used cleaners and still am not able to totally get rid of the mould. . . As much as I was thrilled with the look of the front end machine, I'm ready to ditch it.

Anyone else notice mould from there machines? Any thoughts?

This dry eye stuff makes me question everything

[Scout]

Yes, it is a common problem in front loading washers. The most recent models have had a redesign on the rubber rims and don't have as many places that water doesn't drain.

Mine is about 5 years old and requires a great deal of care and maintenance to prevent mildew and mold developing.

First, you must always wipe out every part of the rim (there are lots of nooks and crannies) with a dry cloth after use.

Second, you must ALWAYS leave the door open when you are not using the washer to let the area air dry.

Third, you need to regularly put your washer through a cleansing cycle with bleach (no clothes).

I like the idea that the washer uses less energy, but it is definitely high maintenance to keep the washer from developing mold, mildew and stink.

I don't know about the mold and mildew getting on your clothing, though. I'm no scientist, but aren't mold spores airborne? If that is true, then the laundry room itself could be more of a problem than your clothing.

But I really don't know the answer to that one.

Scout

[Scout]

Addendum

I forgot to mention . . .

You also need to use a towel to wipe dry the detergent dispenser drawer and then keep the detergent dispenser drawer open after you use your washer as well.

I hadn't been doing that on mine and realized the mildew/mold started growing in that part as well. I periodically wipe it with bleach as well.

Some users on internet forums are saying that they have seen stains on their clothing that they think is from the accumulated mold and mildew. So other people are thinking the same thing that you are.

Mold is one of my most severe allergies, so I have been fairly compulsive about keeping the washer free from the mold and mildew buildup. I have never seen my clothes stained from it or smelled the moldy stink on my clothes. But others around the internet complain of the smell and the stains on clothes.

I do think that would affect people who are highly allergic to mold. Like me.

Scout

[Hopeful2]

Hi Scout,

Thanks for all of the advice. We are doing most of what you suggest. . . haven't wiped down the dispenser drawer. I think the mold sort of crept up on us. We were not told about any special maintenance program, so for months we had kept the door closed. By the time me realized there was an issue, the clothing was already stinky We had the rubber dam replace, but when I put a pipe cleaner between the rubber and the drum, I continue to get mold residue. I hate to think that mold could be getting into eyes and contributing to dry eye issues in form of allergy.

Hopeful2