How to Get Mildew Off From Under Paint

Old painted furniture is susceptible to mildew when stored in damp, warm locations.

Mildew is a member of the fungus family and a living organism that grows in moist, warm locations. While mildew growth begins on a surface when it's not cleaned regularly, mildew can ultimately work its way through paint. Painted wood surfaces are particularly susceptible to this when the mildew isn't noticed. In order to prevent the surface from being ruined you must completely remove the mildew from under the paint.

Things You'll Need

• Safety goggles
• Rubber gloves
• Paint remover
• Paintbrush
• Bucket
• 1/4 cup trisodium phosphate
• 1 cup bleach
• Scrub brush
• Clean cloths
• Hose
• Mildew-resistant paint

Instructions

1. 

   Wear safety goggles and gloves to keep your eyes and skin safe when removing mildew.

   Wear safety goggles and rubber gloves to protect your skin from cleaning solutions that remove mildew; they contain chemicals that can dry or irritate the skin and burn your eyes.

2. Remove the paint from the affected surface. Brush on a paint removing gel according to the container's directions. Wash the paint and removing gel off after the prescribed time and allow the surface to dry completely.

3. 

   Use a solution containing bleach to remove mildew stains.

   Mix 1/4 cup trisodium phosphate, 1 cup bleach and 1 gallon warm water in a bucket. With gloved hands, dip your scrub brush in the mildew-killing solution and scrub the surface that's affected by mildew. Frequently rinse the brush with water then scrub with more of the bleach solution.

4. Dip a clean cloth into the bleach solution to wash surfaces on which you can't use your brush.

5. Rinse the surface with water and a clean cloth. If you can bring the item outdoors, rinse it with the hose. Allow the surface to air dry completely, in direct sunlight if possible.

6. Apply fresh paint to your surface. Use mildew-resistant paint if you think the item is susceptible to the return of mildew.

Tips & Warnings

• Set damp painted furniture in the sun to dry and to kill any remaining mildew spores.

• Dry off outdoor furniture after each rain to prevent mildew development.

• Substitute liquid dishwashing detergent for trisodium phosphate, if preferred.

References

• University of Missouri: How to Prevent and Remove Mildew-Home Methods: Removing Mildew: Wood
• Good Housekeeping: How to Clean Mildew
• North Caroline State University: Mildew Prevention in the Home: Mildew Removal: How to Remove Mildew From Wood Floors, Painted Walls or Wood Surfaces