How to Remove Mildew from Fabric: Easy Ways

Mildew can leave unsightly stains and unpleasant odors on fabric, making it a nuisance for clothes, upholstery, and linens alike. Whether it’s due to a damp environment, poor storage conditions, or excess moisture exposure, mildew can cling to fabrics, compromising their appearance and longevity. Removing mildew effectively requires the right techniques and tools to ensure your fabrics are fully restored without any lasting damage.

This guide will walk you through easy, step-by-step ways to remove mildew from various types of fabrics, from everyday clothing to delicate linens. With these tips, you’ll be able to refresh your fabrics and prevent mildew from becoming a recurring issue.

What is Mildew and Why Does it Form on Fabric?

Mildew is a type of fungus that thrives in warm, damp, and poorly ventilated areas. It often appears as small, black, or gray spots on fabrics and has a musty odor. Common sources of mildew growth on fabric include:

Improper Storage: Storing fabric in damp basements, garages, or unventilated closets can encourage mildew growth.
High Humidity: When the air is moist, fabrics can retain moisture, creating an environment ripe for mildew.
Leaving Fabrics Wet: Clothes or linens left damp for extended periods can develop mildew quickly.

Understanding the cause can help you implement preventative measures after the cleaning process.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before beginning the mildew removal process, it’s essential to gather the right tools and cleaning agents. Here’s what you’ll need:

White Vinegar: Known for its acidic properties, vinegar is excellent for killing mildew spores.
Baking Soda: Acts as a natural deodorizer and mild abrasive.
Hydrogen Peroxide: A gentle bleach alternative, effective for mildew stains.
Laundry Detergent: For general cleaning after treating mildew.
Borax (Optional): A potent mildew-fighting powder that boosts cleaning power.
Soft-Bristle Brush: For scrubbing delicate fabrics.
Lemon Juice: Natural mildew remover with a fresh scent.
Sunlight: Helps to kill mildew and naturally bleaches stains.

Step 2: Identify the Type of Fabric

Different fabrics require different cleaning approaches to avoid damage. Here are common fabric types and the best methods to treat mildew on each:

Cotton and Polyester

These durable fabrics can withstand vinegar, baking soda, and even light brushing.

Delicate Fabrics (Silk, Wool)

Handle with care. Avoid harsh chemicals and scrubbing; use diluted solutions.

Upholstery Fabric

Use spot cleaning techniques. Avoid saturating the fabric to prevent mold from developing in the padding underneath.

Step 3: Test for Colorfastness

Before applying any mildew removal solution, test a small hidden area of the fabric. This step ensures that the cleaning solution won’t cause fading, discoloration, or damage to the fabric.

Apply Solution: Dab a small amount of the cleaning solution on a discreet spot.
Wait a Few Minutes: Observe if there is any change in color or texture.
Proceed or Adjust: If there’s no visible reaction, proceed with the chosen method. If there is, try a milder cleaning solution.

Step 4: Remove Mildew from Fabric Using Different Methods

Method 1: White Vinegar Solution

White vinegar is a natural mildew killer and deodorizer. Here’s how to use it:

Prepare a Solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Apply to Fabric: Spray the solution onto the mildew stains.
Let it Sit: Allow the vinegar solution to soak for 15-30 minutes to penetrate the fabric.
Scrub Lightly: Use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the area, loosening the mildew spots.
Rinse and Wash: Rinse the fabric with warm water and then wash it with regular detergent. Hang it in the sun to dry.

Method 2: Baking Soda and Vinegar Paste

Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive, which is especially useful for tougher stains.

Make a Paste: Mix baking soda with vinegar until it forms a paste.
Apply to Stain: Spread the paste over the mildew spots, gently massaging it in.
Let It Sit: Leave the paste on the stain for 30 minutes.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse off the baking soda and vinegar mixture, then launder as usual.

Method 3: Hydrogen Peroxide Solution (For Stubborn Stains)

Hydrogen peroxide is a gentle bleach alternative, ideal for white and light-colored fabrics.

Prepare Solution: Use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution.
Apply to Stain: Dab it onto the mildew spots with a clean cloth or sponge.
Allow Time to Work: Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Launder as Usual: Wash the fabric as you normally would.

Method 4: Lemon Juice and Salt (For Delicate Fabrics)

Lemon juice has natural bleaching properties and, combined with salt, can lift mildew stains effectively.

Squeeze Lemon Juice: Apply lemon juice directly onto the mildew spots.
Add Salt: Sprinkle salt over the lemon juice to enhance scrubbing power.
Expose to Sunlight: Place the fabric in direct sunlight for 1-2 hours.
Brush and Rinse: Lightly brush off any remaining salt and rinse with water.

Method 5: Borax Solution (For Deep Cleaning)

Borax is a powerful mildew-fighting agent and works well for mildew that has deeply penetrated the fabric.

Mix Borax Solution: Dissolve ½ cup of borax in a bucket of hot water.
Soak Fabric: Submerge the fabric in the borax solution for one hour.
Rinse and Wash: Rinse the fabric thoroughly and launder as usual.

Step 5: Dry Fabric Properly

Proper drying is essential to prevent mildew from reoccurring.

Sun-Dry Whenever Possible: Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and helps remove lingering mildew odor.
Use Low Heat for Delicate Fabrics: For fabrics that can’t be sun-dried, use a low-heat setting on your dryer.
Ensure Complete Drying: Double-check that the fabric is fully dry before storing it away.

Preventing Mildew on Fabric

Keeping fabric mildew-free is all about reducing moisture exposure and improving ventilation. Here are some tips for long-term prevention:

Store Fabric in Dry Areas: Avoid humid basements, bathrooms, or other damp spaces.
Use Desiccants in Storage Areas: Place silica gel packets or other moisture absorbers in closets or storage containers.
Avoid Leaving Damp Fabric Unattended: Don’t let wet clothes or towels sit in hampers for long.
Regular Cleaning: Clean fabric items periodically to remove accumulated dust and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bleach to remove mildew from colored fabric?

Bleach is effective for mildew on white fabrics but can cause discoloration on colored fabrics. Use bleach alternatives like hydrogen peroxide or vinegar for colored items.

What should I do if the mildew smell persists?

If the mildew smell lingers, try soaking the fabric in a mixture of vinegar and water or using baking soda during the wash cycle.

Is it safe to put mildewed fabric in the dryer?

Only put fabric in the dryer if the mildew stain and smell are completely removed. Heat can set mildew stains, making them harder to remove.

Conclusion

Removing mildew from fabric can seem challenging, but with the right techniques, your fabrics can be restored to their original state. By using natural cleaning agents like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice, you can effectively eliminate mildew without relying on harsh chemicals.

With these easy methods and preventive tips, you’ll be able to keep your fabrics fresh, clean, and mildew-free for the long term.