Removing Mold From Your Dehumidifier's Drop Pan

Dehumidifiers are a great way to keep excess moisture out of your home and reduce the chances of mould and mildew. However, they require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure they are working effectively and not spreading mould spores into your home. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove mould from your dehumidifier's drop pan.

Unplug the dehumidifier

Unplugging your dehumidifier is the first step in cleaning and removing mould from your appliance. It is important to do this to prevent any chance of electric shock while you are cleaning. You should also use the power button to turn off the appliance.

Most dehumidifiers will beep if you start to take it apart while it is still on. Unplugging the appliance will also prevent any potential damage to the machine if it is accidentally turned on while you are cleaning it.

It is recommended that you clean your dehumidifier regularly, about once every two weeks, to prevent a build-up of dust and dirt. Regular cleaning will also make the process quicker, as there will be less to clean.

Before you unplug and turn off your dehumidifier, you should gather your cleaning supplies. You will need rubber or latex gloves to protect your hands from mould spores and, if you have mould allergies, a dust mask to prevent breathing in the spores. You will also need an antimicrobial solution to kill the mould spores and prevent them from becoming airborne. Other supplies include a soft-bristle scrub brush, a bottle brush or an aquarium brush, mild dish soap, warm water, and a clean cloth.

Once you have unplugged your dehumidifier, you can begin the cleaning process by removing the water collection basket.

Remove the tank

Before removing the tank, make sure the dehumidifier is turned off and unplugged. The tank is usually located at the bottom of the dehumidifier and can be carefully pulled out. If you're unsure where the tank is or how to remove it, refer to the dehumidifier's user manual. Once the tank has been removed, take it to a sink or tub and pour out the water.

If your dehumidifier has a hose that runs to a drain, it won't have a tank that needs to be emptied or cleaned.

Wash the tank

Fill the bottom of the tank with water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Shake the tank so that the soap and water clean the inside of the tank. Swish the water around for a couple of minutes and then pour it out. Rinse the tank with clean water to get rid of any soap residue.

For extra cleaning power, especially if there is visible mold, fill the tank with equal parts warm water and white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for up to an hour before dumping it out. This will help to disinfect the tank and prevent mold and mildew from growing.

Dry the outside of the tank with a clean towel and let the inside air-dry completely before reassembling the dehumidifier.

Wash the tank with a mild detergent

To wash the tank with a mild detergent, start by filling the bottom of the tank with water and adding a few drops of mild dish soap. Shake the tank so the soapy water splashes against the sides, cleaning off any residue. Swish the water around for a couple of minutes, then pour it out down the sink. Next, fill the tank with clean water and swish it around to get rid of any remaining suds and detergent. Finally, dry the outside of the tank with a clean towel and let the inside air-dry completely before reassembling your dehumidifier.

For extra cleaning power, try using a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Leave the solution to soak in the tank for up to an hour before dumping it out.

Clean the air filter

To clean the air filter of your dehumidifier, start by turning off and unplugging the appliance. The next step is to locate and remove the air filter. The filter is typically found behind a grate on the exterior of the dehumidifier, or behind the water tank at the bottom of the unit. Some dehumidifiers have filters at both the front and the back, so be sure to check your manual for the exact location. Once you've found the filter, gently pull it out, being careful not to touch any hanging wires or electrical components.

If this is your first time cleaning the filter, it may look very dirty, but that just means your dehumidifier is working properly. Place the filter dust-side down in your sink and rinse it with hot water. You can also use warm water and a mild detergent or an equal mix of vinegar and warm water if you prefer. Move the filter around under the tap to efficiently remove dust and dirt. Alternatively, you can use the brush attachment on your vacuum to clean the filter. If it's particularly dirty, you may need to use a damp cloth with mild dish soap to wipe it down. Be sure to rinse the filter with cold water afterward and let it air-dry completely before putting it back in the dehumidifier.

It's important to clean your air filter regularly—once every two to three weeks is recommended—to ensure your dehumidifier works efficiently and to prevent mould and mildew buildup. A dirty filter will result in poor performance and increased energy costs, so regular maintenance is key.

Reassemble the dehumidifier

Once you have cleaned the individual components of your dehumidifier, you can reassemble the appliance. Ensure that all parts are completely dry before reassembling the dehumidifier. Slide the filter back into the slot, and reattach the tank if you had to remove it to access the filter. Once you have reassembled the dehumidifier, turn it back on.

If you had to remove the front cover of your dehumidifier to clean the coils, carefully place it back on. If your dehumidifier has a grate, pop it back on. If your dehumidifier has a hose, ensure that it is properly attached. Plug your dehumidifier back into the power socket, and turn it on using the power button.

Frequently asked questions