How to Remove Mildew Stains From Upholstery
Mildew is a common household problem. While it often occurs in areas affected by flooding, mildew thrives in any place that is dark, damp and has an available source of nourishment. This leaves your upholstered furniture at risk. Mildew can leave unsightly stains on your upholstery. If left untreated, the mildew will eat deeper into your upholstery, causing extensive damage that may render it unusable. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Evaluate the damage. You will be able to remove the mildew stains so long as they are on the surface of your upholstered furniture, according to Dale Dorman at the University of Georgia. If the mildew has penetrated beyond the surface, call a professional.
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Take your upholstered items outside, provided the conditions are dry and sunny. Brush or shake down the upholstery to remove the excess mildew. If this is not possible, the University of Illinois Extension service recommends vacuuming the upholstery. Throw away the vacuum bag immediately afterward, or empty and clean the container outside.
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Prepare a solution of 1 cup of denatured alcohol to 1 cup of water. If you do not have any denatured alcohol on hand, prepare a solution of 1 cup of ammonia to 1 cup of water.
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Dip a clean rag into the solution. Wring it out to remove excess moisture. Wipe down the mildew-stained areas thoroughly with the rag. Repeat as necessary, using as little of the solution as possible.
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Dip a new rag in cool water. Wipe down the areas to remove the solution. Blot the areas with a dry rag to remove excess moisture.
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Allow the upholstery to dry, either outside on a warm, sunny day, or inside in a dry, well-ventilated area.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not combine ammonia with bleach. This will produce a toxic fume that can cause death.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit sofa image by Gina Smith from Fotolia.com
