How to Get Rid of a Mold Stain in Clothing
Unsightly mold stains can develop quickly in clothing, towels or washcloths that have been left damp for an extended period of time. The stains are not only unpleasant to look at, but they also usually carry a foul odor with them and can even aggravate allergies in some individuals. Don't get rid of your moldy fabrics, though, before you give the following tips a try. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Nylon-bristled scrub brush
- Gloves
- Mask
- Safety glasses
- Washer
- Dryer
- Water
- Laundry detergent
- Bleach
- Outdoor place for hanging clothes
Instructions
-
-
1
Brush any clinging mold or mildew off of th fabric by using a stiff nylon-bristled scrub brush. Make sure you do this outside while wearing gloves and possibly even a breathing mask and protective eye wear if you have allergies.
-
2
Soak the moldy items in a washing machine for at least 30 minutes in a combination of very hot water, laundry detergent, and bleach. Only use chlorine bleach for whites; opt for color-safe bleach with colored clothing items, towels or washcloths.
-
-
3
Wash the clothes and remove them promptly. Place them in the dryer on the hottest setting. Use a fabric softening scented dryer sheet, and allow the fabrics to dry for 30 minutes. The hot water and air that the clothing, towels and washcloths receive during washing and drying, along with the addition of bleach, should kill clinging mold and mildew and remove stains.
-
4
Remove the items from the dryer and hang them up outside in a location in which they can receive sunlight and fresh air. This should help the fabrics to finish drying and to remove any lingering odors caused by the mold and mildew.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Prevent future mold and mildew from growing on fabrics by washing any damp or wet fabrics as soon as possible. If you can't wash them right away, hang them in a well-ventilated area to dry out until you can launder them.
