Kim & Agi types, I have a couple of questions please

[DelGirl]

1. My washing machine whiffs a bit as it seems to have a bit of mold on the inside of the rubber seal. I've scrubbed it with bleach and flash and run a hot wash with some soda crystals but I still can't seem to get rid of the damp smell. Suggestions please?

2. What's the best way to clean an iron?

tia

For the washing m/c - dry off the rubber seal after every load as there will be little puddle inside the seal and leave the door open for a while, pref overnight, to let it air. Avoid shutting the door to an empty m/c to keep the air circulating. That's what I do, mum drummed it into me, and it does seem to work. Not sure what to do if it's still pongy though.

Is it the outside of the iron/soleplate that needs cleaning? If it is then I heat it up on lowish and wipe with a damp cloth and tiny bit of washing up liquid. You do get proprietary cleaners but I've never used them. To decscale (some you can't use descalers in ) I use 50/50 vinegar solution. Fill up the tank then leave it facing down till the solution has soaked through. You need to then flush it out with water. But the Scaleaway type products you can buy are really good. HTH

thanks portree. I seemed to have got the majority off the w/m after I made a call to the company and asked how much it was to replace it , i'm just running another wash now with some more soda just to make sure all the bleach etc has gone.

Yes, it is the plate. It's just gone a bit brown and so I just wondered if there is a product or amazing home made solution I can use. Not sure wash up liquid will do it, but i'll give it a go

Mmm. you could try mixing up a paste of bicarb of soda and water, rub it on (cold iron) and leave it a little while to penetrate then see if the brown comes off. Know what you mean about replacement cost, horrendous. Hope you get it sorted out.