How to Remove Mildew Smell from Clothing

Hang clothes outdoors to make them smell fresher.

Mildew odors can begin on clothes when they are left in warm, damp and dark conditions. It's easy to forget, for example, and leave damp clothes in the washing machine or hamper for several days. The odor on the clothes is a sign that mildew has started to form. A regular washing may remove stains, but the odor will sometimes linger. Take these extra steps to eliminate mildew odor.

Things You'll Need

• Detergent (powdered)
• vinegar

Instructions

1. Shake or brush clothing outdoors to remove any loose mildew spores.

2. Separate the mildewed clothing from other items. Wash the mildewed things in smaller loads than usual.

3. Put the smelly clothes in the washing machine, using the hottest water recommended for the item. Add one or two cups of white vinegar. Do not add detergent or other products at this time. Run washer as normal.

4. Leave the clothes in the washer to wash again. This time, wash with powdered detergent. If the clothes are white, add ½ cup liquid chlorine bleach. If the clothes are colored, use fabric bleach.

5. Dry the load in the dryer, using as high a heat setting as the clothes will allow. Heat helps to draw out odors left in the clothing. Throw in a dryer sheet to make clothes smell fresher. Dry items thoroughly before removing. If possible, hang outside on a hot sunny day.

Tips & Warnings

• Laundry detergent and dryer sheets for hunters, such as "Scent-Away," are designed to eliminate odors from clothing, and are worth a try. If you don't want to use bleach, you might try lemon juice and salt, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service suggests.

• Mildew can damage clothing. If the clothes were stained, you may not be able to restore them to their original appearance.

References

• Ohio State University Family and Consumer Services: Quick 'n Easy Stain Removal
• North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service: Rid Your Home of Mildew