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The rubber seal on your washing machine, also referred to as the door gasket, is a vital component of this domestic appliance. It creates a watertight barrier between the door and the drum, preventing water from leaking during the wash cycle. Nevertheless, without adequate maintenance, the rubber seal can quickly become a breeding ground for persistent black mould and mildew.

The warm, damp environment inside the washing machine provides perfect conditions for mould and mildew to thrive, which can also generate foul odours. The washing machine seal makes direct contact with your clothes, meaning any grime or mould present can transfer onto your laundry if left uncleaned, entirely defeating the purpose of washing them in the first place. Moreover, a filthy and obstructed rubber seal can compromise your washing machine's performance, potentially resulting in leaks, diminished efficiency, and even lasting damage to the appliance.

With this in mind, cleaning experts at Smol advocate using white vinegar to eliminate mould from washing machine seals, reports The Mirror.

Commenting on the effectiveness of this everyday kitchen staple, the specialists claimed that "vinegar kills mould more effectively than bleach".

They said: "Bleach only kills mould spores on the surface of affected materials, whereas vinegar can penetrate porous materials, killing mould at its root."

While leaving an acid such as undiluted vinegar on a surface for prolonged periods could allow it to cause some deterioration, diluting vinegar with water in a wash cycle, or applying a solution and wiping it away, is different.

To properly clean your washing machine seal using white vinegar, mix equal parts warm water and clear vinegar, then apply the mixture to the seal using a cloth.

Work the solution carefully into any mould and leave it to soak for 15 minutes. Once complete, wipe away with a damp cloth and fresh warm water.