Mildew is a fungus that thrives in dark places and can live anywhere moisture is present. While mildew and mold are important to the enrichment of soil (they help destroy organic materials such as leaves), they can also be dangerous to humans, causing health issues such as skin and respiratory irritation.
Mildew can develop easily in clothing and other textiles, leaving a sour smell and, in some cases, visible spores and staining. Mildew needs to be treated using specific products that kill fungi. When dealing with mildew on clothing, taking fabric care considerations into account is crucial to preventing irreversible damage.
Before Getting Started: Safety Precautions
Take safety precautions when handling mildew and working with the cleaning agents used for mold and mildew remediation.
When spores are visible on the clothing, brush or shake them off the fabric outdoors. To prevent inhalation of spores, wear a dust mask, such as an N95 respirator, to protect your respiratory system; this is especially important if you suffer from allergies or other respiratory problems. Additionally, wearing protective gloves is recommended for those with sensitive skin or mold and mildew allergies.
Safety Tips for Using Bleach to Remove Mildew
If the clothing is white cotton or the care label says the garment can be bleached, chlorine bleach can be used to remove mildew. The garment care label will feature one of three symbols associated with bleach care:
- Triangle: The garment can be washed with any type of bleach.
- Triangle with two parallel lines inside: Treat the garment with non-chlorine bleach only.
- Solid triangle with an X through it: Do not bleach.
When working with chlorine bleach, avoid mixing it with any products other than laundry detergent. In particular, never mix chlorine bleach with acids like vinegar or lemon juice, ammonia, or products that contain them, as the combination creates toxic chemical fumes that can sicken or kill humans and animals.
When it comes to garments with mildew stains or smells, use the hottest water setting the fabric can tolerate; check the care tag for guidance on water temperature. If the garment is labeled “Dry Clean Only,” take it to be professionally cleaned, and point out the mildew stains when you drop it off.
