How to Treat Mildew Damage

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.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spray Bottle
• White Distilled Vinegar

1. 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.

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

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

4. 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.

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[Ababykitty]

on 2/5/2008 What can you use to get mildew smells out of leather?