How to Treat Mildew Damage

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (6 Ratings)

Mildew is happiest in damp, dark places where air can't circulate, so your closet can be a prime breeding ground for the fungus, which likes leather and most fabrics. When you notice mildew on clothes or accessories, get rid of it as quickly as possible; in addition to being an allergen, it smells terrible and is unsightly.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Spray Bottle
White Distilled Vinegar

Step1

Pour undiluted white distilled vinegar into a spray bottle. Vinegar has a high success rate for getting rid of mildew, and it also eliminates the bad odor.

Step2

Spray the vinegar onto the affected area of the garment or accessory.

Step3

Let the vinegar work its magic for several hours, ideally outside in the sun.

Step4

If you're dealing with a garment, wash it only after the sight and smell of the fungus is gone. Use warm, sudsy water, and hang the garment to dry in a clean, dry place.

Tips & Warnings

Liquid chlorine bleach also kills mildew. Check the tags on your garment to find out if it's safe to bleach them. Other acidic substances like lemon juice or grapefruit juice can also combat mildew damage.