How to Remove Mildew Smell in Fabric

Improperly dried clothes and fabrics that have been soaked and not properly dried have a tendency to emanate that musty smell that regular washing with soap won't get rid of. When clothes or fabrics get wet, such as beach towels or clothes that get left in the washing machine too long, they begin to mildew, which is at best an unpleasant smell. There are several proven methods for freshening fabrics and removing all traces of that musty aroma.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper White vinegar Baking soda Ammonia Borax Cotton balls Pure vanilla

Instructions

Several Simple Suggestions

1. Wrap newspaper around the fabric permeating the foul smell and set aside for at least two days. The smell will absorb into the newspaper. Wash and dry as usual.

2. Wash the fabric in the washing machine with 1 cup of white vinegar and hang it outside to dry.

3. Add 1 cup baking soda to the wash cycle in the washing machine and wash with the hottest water possible. Dry the fabrics in the dryer.

4. Wash fabrics in the washing machine with the normal amount of detergent. Add 1 cup of ammonia during the rinse cycle and dry immediately once the cycle is finished.

5. Wash the fabrics in the washing machine with 1 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of borax. Add another cup of vinegar during the rinse cycle. Dry fabrics by either air drying or placing them in the dryer. Place fabrics in a plastic bag surrounded by cotton balls dipped in pure vanilla. Do not place the cotton balls directly on the fabric. Allow this to sit for at least two hours.

Tips & Warnings

• If the weather permits, it's best to allow clothes to air dry in the sunshine to remove odors. Vinegar and baking soda are very effective on their own. If they are used together they will neutralize each other.

• Never mix bleach and ammonia. Read the care instructions for clothes and fabrics carefully. Some fabrics cannot be washed in hot water.