How to Remove Mildew from Fabrics and Upholstery

Eliminating mildew from clothes becomes challenging without using the appropriate cleaning agents. Mildew, a living organism present in the air, flourishes in damp and dark environments, attaching to various surfaces, including fabrics. It leaves behind stains, unpleasant odors, and damages fibers. To effectively address this issue, one can employ store-bought detergents, common household items, and washing in temperatures exceeding 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Identifying mildew is relatively easy; it often appears as gray or white patches on the fabric's surface or manifests as black or green spots with a "fuzzy" or slimy texture. The musty, pungent odor of mold or mildew signals the presence of spores, even if not visible. Ignoring visible or olfactory indications is ill-advised, as mold growth can compromise natural fibers, causing irreversible damage and persistent stains.

The optimal method for removing mildew from clothes, including dry-clean-only items and fabric upholstery, involves the following steps:

Warning: Prioritize safety by using protective gear such as an N95 respirator mask, gloves, and eye protection to prevent exposure to mold spores, which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

How to Remove Mildew Stains and Odors From Washable Clothes

1. Brush Away Spores Outside:

   • Take affected items outdoors to shake or brush away spores, preventing their spread indoors.
   • Remove as much powdery substance as possible, brushing both sides of the fabric.

2. Spot Treat, Wash, and Disinfect:

   • Pre-treat each mildewed spot with heavy-duty liquid detergent for at least 15 minutes.
   • Wash stained items in the hottest water recommended on the care label.
   • Use chlorine bleach for white, 100% cotton fabric, and pine oil or phenolic disinfectant for synthetic or colored materials.

3. Inspect Stain:

   • If stains persist after disinfection, use oxygen bleach on all types of white and colored fabrics.

4. Soak in Oxygen Bleach Solution:

   • Mix an oxygen bleach solution according to package directions.
   • Submerge the stained fabric and soak for at least eight hours or overnight.
   • Wash as usual if the stain is gone; repeat if necessary.

How to Remove Mildew Stains and Odors From Dry-Clean-Only Clothes

1. Brush Away Spores Outside:

   • Brush dry-clean-only fabrics outdoors with a soft bristle brush.
   • For napped materials, brush gently in the direction of the surface.

2. Prevent Spores From Spreading:

   • After brushing, place the garment in a cotton or plastic bag to prevent spore spread.
   • Take the garment to a professional dry cleaner, pointing out and identifying the stain.

How to Remove Mildew Stains and Odors From Upholstery

1. Use Anti-Mold Spray:

   • Apply an anti-mold spray to the affected area, ensuring saturation.
   • Allow the area to dry completely.

2. Spot Clean With Oxygen Bleach:

   • Apply an oxygen bleach and water solution to discolored upholstery.
   • Air dry between applications and repeat until stains disappear.

Additional Tips:

• Persistence is Key:

  • If stains or odors persist, repeat the steps until mildew is completely eliminated.

• Alternative Household Materials:

  • Hydrogen peroxide (3% to 10% solution) can be used as a gentler alternative to bleach.
  • Baking soda, borax, and rubbing alcohol can inhibit mold growth but don't kill spores.

• Prevention and Maintenance:

  • Regularly clean front-load washers to prevent mold growth in door seals.
  • Isolate affected items to contain spores and prevent spreading.

• Professional Assistance:

  • Consult a dry cleaning or furniture cleaning professional if uncertain about cleaning specific items.

FAQ:

1. How do you get mildew on your clothes?

   • Mildew thrives in warm, moist, and dark conditions. Ensure proper drying of laundry to prevent mildew growth.

2. Can you get mildew out of clothes, or should they be discarded?

   • If heavily covered in spores and left untreated, some items may be irreversibly damaged. Mold allergies may also be a consideration.

3. What temperature water kills mold and mildew?

   • Water at 140 degrees Fahrenheit or higher effectively kills mold and mildew.

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