How To Get Mildew Mold Out Of Clothes

Ever opened your washing machine only to be greeted by a musty, unpleasant odor? Or perhaps you've unearthed a forgotten pile of damp laundry from the depths of your closet, now sporting unsightly dark spots? That's mildew and mold, and it's not just an aesthetic problem; it can damage your clothes and pose health risks, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues. Mildew and mold thrive in damp, poorly ventilated environments, making our clothes prime targets.

Dealing with mildew and mold on clothes requires a proactive approach. Ignoring it can lead to permanent staining, fabric damage, and even the need to discard your favorite garments. But don't despair! With the right techniques and cleaning agents, you can effectively eliminate mildew and mold, restore your clothes to their former glory, and prevent future outbreaks. Learning how to tackle this common household problem saves you money and extends the lifespan of your wardrobe.

What's the best way to remove mildew and mold from my clothes?

Will sunlight alone kill mildew on clothes?

Sunlight can help kill mildew on clothes, but it's often not enough to completely eliminate it, especially if the mildew is deeply embedded or has been present for a while. The UV rays in sunlight can kill mildew spores and fade stains, but pre-treatment with a cleaning solution is generally needed for full removal.

Exposure to sunlight is a valuable component of mildew removal because ultraviolet (UV) radiation acts as a natural disinfectant. It inhibits the growth of remaining mildew spores and helps to bleach out lingering stains, preventing further damage and discoloration. However, mildew often penetrates the fabric fibers, making surface-level treatments like sunlight alone insufficient. The organic matter that mildew feeds on may persist even after sun exposure. Therefore, while hanging clothes in direct sunlight can be beneficial, it's crucial to first wash the affected items with a detergent containing bleach (if the fabric allows) or a mildew-fighting agent like borax or vinegar. After washing, allowing the clothes to air dry outdoors in the sun will enhance the cleaning process and further reduce the likelihood of mildew returning. Consider the fabric type, as prolonged sun exposure can damage delicate materials or cause colors to fade over time. To summarize, for best results in getting rid of mildew:

What's the best detergent for removing mildew smells from clothing?

The best detergent for removing mildew smells from clothing is typically a high-quality enzyme-based laundry detergent. Enzyme detergents contain enzymes like protease and amylase, which effectively break down the proteins and starches that mildew and mold feed on, eliminating the source of the odor rather than just masking it.

Beyond just the detergent, proper washing techniques are crucial. Always use the hottest water temperature that the fabric can safely handle, as heat further assists in killing mildew spores. Adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle can also boost the detergent's effectiveness. Vinegar's acidity helps to neutralize odors and further disinfects the clothing. For heavily mildewed items, consider pre-soaking the clothes in a solution of water and oxygen bleach (like OxiClean) for several hours before washing with the enzyme detergent. After washing, ensure the clothes are completely dried, preferably in direct sunlight. Sunlight has natural bleaching and disinfecting properties. If you must use a dryer, ensure the clothing is completely dry before removing it, as any residual moisture can encourage mildew to return. If the mildew smell persists after one wash, repeat the process. In rare cases, for particularly stubborn mildew odors, you may need to consider professional cleaning services.

Can I use baking soda to get mildew out of delicate fabrics?

Yes, you can use baking soda to help remove mildew and its odor from delicate fabrics. Baking soda is a gentle alkali that can neutralize acids and absorb moisture, making it effective at inhibiting mildew growth and deodorizing clothes without being as harsh as bleach or other strong chemicals. However, baking soda alone may not completely eradicate stubborn mildew stains, so it's best used in conjunction with other gentle cleaning methods.

To use baking soda on delicate fabrics with mildew, start by gently brushing off any loose mildew spores outdoors to prevent them from spreading inside. Then, create a solution by dissolving baking soda in cool water (approximately 1/4 cup of baking soda per gallon of water). Soak the affected garment in the solution for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours for heavily mildewed items. After soaking, gently hand wash the garment using a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics. Rinse thoroughly and air dry the item in direct sunlight, if possible, as sunlight has natural disinfecting and bleaching properties. For persistent mildew stains or odors, you can create a paste of baking soda and water (or baking soda and a small amount of white vinegar for added cleaning power) and apply it directly to the affected area. Let the paste sit for 15-30 minutes before gently rinsing it off and washing the garment as usual. Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration or damage. Remember that prevention is key: ensure clothes are thoroughly dried before storing them to prevent mildew growth in the first place.

How long should I soak mildewed clothes before washing them?

The ideal soaking time for mildewed clothes is at least 30 minutes, but for heavily mildewed items, soaking for 1-2 hours, or even overnight, can significantly improve the removal of mold and its musty odor. Use a solution appropriate for the fabric type, such as a mixture of water and vinegar, baking soda, or a commercial mildew remover.

Soaking helps to loosen the mildew spores and break down the organic matter that the mold is feeding on, making it easier to remove during the washing cycle. The longer the soak, the more effective the cleaning agents will be in penetrating the fabric and dislodging the mildew. However, it’s crucial to monitor the clothes, especially delicate fabrics, periodically during extended soaking to prevent any damage or discoloration. Avoid soaking for extended periods with chlorine bleach, as this can weaken fabric fibers over time. After soaking, thoroughly rinse the clothes with cool water before washing them in your washing machine. This removes the soaking solution and any dislodged mildew particles. Always wash mildewed clothes separately from other laundry to prevent cross-contamination. Use hot water if the fabric allows and add a laundry detergent with enzymes that are effective at breaking down stains and odors. Finally, ensure the clothes are completely dry, preferably in direct sunlight, as sunlight is a natural disinfectant and helps to further eliminate any remaining mildew spores.

Does vinegar damage clothing when removing mildew?

While vinegar is generally safe for use on most washable clothing, prolonged or undiluted exposure can potentially weaken fibers, especially delicate fabrics like silk or rayon. Using diluted white vinegar in a well-ventilated area, followed by thorough rinsing, minimizes the risk of damage while effectively addressing mildew. Always test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure colorfastness.

Vinegar's acidity is what makes it a useful mildew remover, but it's this same acidity that can pose a risk to certain fabrics. Strong concentrations of vinegar, especially when left on clothing for extended periods, can break down the fibers, leading to premature wear and tear. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are generally more resistant to vinegar's effects than synthetics or delicate fabrics. Therefore, dilution is key: a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water is typically recommended for treating mildew on clothes. Before applying any vinegar solution, it's prudent to test it on a hidden area of the garment, such as an inside seam or hem. This will allow you to observe any adverse reactions, like color fading or fiber damage, before treating the entire affected area. After applying the vinegar solution, allow it to sit for a reasonable time (typically 30-60 minutes) to allow the vinegar to work on the mildew. Then, thoroughly rinse the clothing with clean water to remove any residual vinegar and its associated odor. Washing the garment as usual after the vinegar treatment is also advisable.

At what water temperature should I wash mildewed clothing?

Wash mildewed clothing in hot water, ideally at least 140°F (60°C), to effectively kill mildew spores. Hot water is crucial for disinfecting the fabric and preventing the mildew from spreading to other items in the wash or re-establishing itself on the clothes.

While hot water is the most effective at killing mildew, always check the care label of your garments first. If the clothing is delicate or prone to shrinking, washing in warm water (around 100°F or 38°C) may be a safer option. In such cases, pretreating the mildewed areas with a mildew-killing solution (such as a mixture of white vinegar and water or a commercial mildew remover) and extending the wash time can compensate for the lower water temperature. Regardless of the water temperature used, ensure you add a good quality laundry detergent. For persistent mildew odors or stains, consider using a detergent containing enzymes or a bleach alternative safe for the fabric type. After washing, thoroughly dry the clothing in a hot dryer or, preferably, in direct sunlight, as UV rays can also help kill any remaining mildew spores. If the mildew smell persists after the first wash, repeat the process.

Is it safe to dry clothes in the dryer after treating for mildew?

Yes, it is generally safe to dry clothes in the dryer after they have been properly treated for mildew. The high heat of the dryer will kill any remaining mildew spores and help ensure that the mildew does not return.

While the initial cleaning process, such as washing with hot water and a mildew-killing agent like bleach or vinegar, removes the bulk of the mildew, the dryer provides an extra layer of protection. The high temperatures reached during the drying cycle (typically above 140°F or 60°C) are lethal to most mold and mildew spores. This heat further sanitizes the clothing and reduces the likelihood of any residual spores surviving and re-establishing themselves, especially in humid environments. However, it's crucial to ensure the mildew is *completely* removed before drying. Drying clothes with active mildew can simply bake the odor into the fabric, making it even harder to remove later. Furthermore, while the dryer heat kills the mildew, it doesn't necessarily eliminate stains the mildew might have left behind. If stains persist after washing, consider repeating the washing process or using a stain remover before drying. Check clothing thoroughly after washing and before drying to make sure you have removed all visible mildew.

Well, there you have it! Getting mildew and mold out of clothes can be a bit of a process, but hopefully, these tips have given you the confidence to tackle those musty garments and get them smelling fresh again. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back soon for more helpful laundry and cleaning advice!