How to Get Mildew Out of Drawers

Mildew may become a problem for drawers exposed to dampness.

The dark, enclosed environment of drawers is prime breeding ground for mildew. This mostly occurs if damp items are stored in the drawers, the humidity is high or the area has been flooded. Initially, mildew may not be visible but you may detect a musty odor. As the mildew grows, it appears as colored spots on the drawers--particularly white, black or green spots. Removing the mildew is essential to keep it from spreading and to prevent items stored in these drawers from also developing mildew.

Things You'll Need

• Tarp
• Rubber gloves
• Eye goggles
• Bucket
• Chlorine laundry bleach
• Water
• Wood or plastic serving spoon
• Sponge

Instructions

1. Remove the drawers and take them outdoors. Place the drawers on a tarp in the sunlight.

2. Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands and eye goggles to protect your eyes in case the cleaning solution splashes. Pour ¾ cup of chlorine laundry bleach and 1 gallon of water in a bucket. Stir it with a wood or plastic serving spoon.

3. Dip a sponge in the bucket and squeeze out the excess fluid. Scrub the drawers with the sponge.

4. Allow the drawers to air dry outdoors before bringing them back inside.

References

• University of Minnesota Extension: How to Remove Mildew