Removing Mildew Stains from Clothing.

How to Remove Mildew from Clothing

If you’re dealing with stubborn, musty-smelling spots on your clothes, you’re not alone. Learning how to remove mildew from clothing is essential, especially if you store garments for long periods, live in a humid climate, or forget a load of wet laundry in the washer. Mildew is a type of fungus that thrives in warm, damp environments and can leave behind unpleasant stains and odors. The good news? With the right approach, you can save your favorite fabrics and remove that mildew for good.

What Causes Mildew on Clothing?

Mildew can develop when fabric is left damp for too long, whether it’s wet clothes in a hamper, laundry forgotten in the washer, or garments stored in a humid area. Even carefully packed items in airtight containers aren’t immune, temperature changes, moisture, and poor air circulation can all contribute to mildew growth.

Identifying Mildew on Fabric

Mildew on clothing usually appears as powdery patches or blotchy stains in shades of white, gray, black, or even green. It often comes with a strong musty odor that doesn’t wash out easily. If caught early, most mildew damage is reversible.

How to Remove Mildew from Clothing

Before washing, take these steps to prep your clothes for mildew removal:

• Take the clothing outside and shake or brush off any visible mildew to avoid spreading spores indoors. A mask can help prevent inhaling mildew dust.
• Vacuum the affected areas using a handheld vacuum or gently scrub them with an old toothbrush to loosen mildew particles.
• Use the hottest water safe for the fabric. Check the care label first, some items may only tolerate warm water.
• Add cleaning agents to fight mildew. Use a high-quality detergent like OxiClean, and add 1/2 cup of borax to boost mildew-fighting power.
• Wash small, similar loads to ensure thorough cleaning.
• Inspect the clothing before drying. If stains or odor remain, repeat the wash. Never put mildewed items in the dryer until you’re sure the mildew is completely gone, or you risk setting the stain permanently.

Removing Mildew from Delicate Fabrics

For delicate fabrics such as silk, wool, or vintage items, test any mildew removal method on a hidden area first. If the label allows, try hand washing with cold water and a gentle detergent designed for delicates. You can also add white vinegar to the rinse water to help neutralize odors and combat mildew.

How to Remove Mildew from Clothing with Natural Alternatives

If you prefer natural solutions, try these options:

• White vinegar: Add 1 cup of distilled white vinegar to your wash cycle. It helps kill mildew spores and remove odors.
• Baking soda: Combine 1/2 cup baking soda with detergent in the wash to deodorize and lift mildew.
• Sunlight: Dry clothes in direct sunlight if possible. UV rays naturally kill mildew and help fade stains.

What If the Mildew Won’t Come Out?

If repeated washing doesn’t fully remove mildew stains or smell, don’t give up right away. Try soaking the fabric in a solution of water and oxygen bleach (follow product instructions) before re-washing. In stubborn cases, a professional cleaner may be able to help, especially with heirloom or specialty garments.

Preventing Mildew on Clothing

• Never store damp or dirty clothing. Always wash and dry thoroughly first.
• Avoid sealing clothes in plastic bags or cardboard boxes where moisture can get trapped.
• Use breathable storage containers in dry, well-ventilated areas.
• Consider adding moisture absorbers, like silica gel packets or baking soda, in storage bins.
• Clean closets and storage areas regularly to avoid moisture buildup.

Mildew doesn’t have to mean the end of your favorite garments. With quick action and the right cleaning methods, you can often restore your clothes to their original condition. Whether it’s forgotten laundry, damp storage, or humid conditions, knowing how to remove mildew from clothing will help you protect your wardrobe and keep fabrics fresh, clean, and wearable for years to come

Clothing and Laundry