Struggling with musty-smelling clothes or strange spots that won’t go away? These are common signs of mildew, a type of fungus that grows on damp fabrics.
Mildew appears when clothes remain wet for too long or are stored in humid conditions. If left untreated, it can cause lasting stains and unpleasant odors. Acting quickly is crucial to protect your clothes and keep them fresh.
In this guide, you will learn how to get rid of mildew on clothes using simple, effective methods. From natural remedies to proper washing and drying techniques, these steps will help you remove mildew and prevent it from coming back.
Identify the Signs of Mildew on Fabric
Understanding the early signs is the first step in learning how to get rid of mildew on clothes. Acting quickly can prevent lasting stains and unpleasant odors.
How Mildew Differs from Mold and General Stains
Mildew often appears as flat, white or gray patches on fabric. It grows on the surface and is easier to remove than mold, which tends to be thicker, darker, and rooted deeper into the fibers.
Unlike common stains from food or sweat, mildew has a strong, musty odor that persists even after a regular wash. Knowing these differences can help you choose the right cleaning method.
Common Signs: Discoloration, Odor, Texture
If you notice light-colored spots on your clothing that give off a damp, musty smell, mildew may be the cause. These patches might feel slimy, stiff, or rough.
Over time, the smell can become more intense, even after washing. This odor is a clear sign that mildew has begun to grow and that you’ll need targeted methods to remove it.
Fabrics Most Prone to Mildew Buildup
Natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool are most vulnerable. They absorb moisture easily, creating the perfect environment for mildew to thrive.
Clothes left damp in the washing machine, laundry basket, or storage are especially at risk. Even synthetic blends can develop mildew if kept in humid or poorly ventilated spaces.
What Causes Mildew Growth on Clothes?
To understand how to get rid of mildew on clothes, you first need to know what causes it. Mildew thrives in damp, dark, and poorly ventilated environments. Once it settles into fabric, it can be difficult to remove without the right steps.
Damp Laundry Habits
Leaving wet clothes in the washing machine or laundry basket creates the perfect breeding ground for mildew. Even a few hours of sitting damp can start the growth process. To avoid this, always transfer clothes to dry immediately after washing.
Poor Ventilation in Closets or Storage
Closets and storage spaces with little airflow trap moisture. This can raise humidity levels around clothes, especially during rainy or humid seasons. Over time, this hidden moisture leads to mildew buildup, particularly on clothes stored tightly together.
Storing Unwashed Clothes
Clothes worn once, even if they don’t seem dirty; can carry sweat, oils, or food particles that feed mildew. When these are stored without washing, the moisture and organic material attract fungal growth. Washing garments before storage helps lower the risk.
How Climate Affects Mildew Risk
Warm, humid climates significantly increase the chance of mildew forming on clothing. High humidity levels make it harder for fabrics to stay dry, especially in poorly ventilated homes. In such environments, regular airing out and moisture control are essential steps in preventing mildew.
Natural Methods to Remove Mildew
If you want to know how to get rid of mildew on clothes without harsh chemicals, natural remedies offer a safe and effective solution. These eco-friendly methods work well for most fabrics and help eliminate mildew stains and odor at the source.
White Vinegar Soak Method
White vinegar is one of the most reliable natural mildew removers. Fill a basin with equal parts vinegar and warm water, then soak the affected clothes for at least one hour.
The acetic acid in vinegar breaks down mildew while also neutralizing odors. After soaking, wash the garment with regular detergent in warm water.
Lemon Juice and Salt Treatment
For a lighter, fabric-safe option, combine fresh lemon juice with salt to create a mild paste. Apply it directly to mildew spots and place the garment in direct sunlight for one to two hours.
The citric acid in lemon helps lift stains, while the salt acts as a gentle abrasive. This method is especially useful for white or light-colored fabrics.
Baking Soda and Hot Water Paste
Baking soda not only fights mildew but also deodorizes clothing. Mix baking soda with a small amount of hot water to form a paste. Rub it gently onto the mildew-stained areas and let it sit for 30 minutes before washing. For extra power, you can add half a cup of baking soda directly to the wash cycle.
Benefits: Eco-Friendly and Safe for Most Fabrics
These natural solutions are free from toxic chemicals and work well on cotton, linen, and synthetic blends. They are less likely to cause fading or fabric damage, making them a smart choice for regular use. Moreover, they are affordable and easily available in most households.
Chemical Treatments That Work
While natural methods are ideal for mild cases, stubborn mildew may require stronger solutions. Knowing how to get rid of mildew on clothes using chemical treatments can help you rescue garments that natural remedies couldn’t fully clean.
When to Use Commercial Mildew Removers
If mildew has set deep into the fabric or has been left untreated for too long, a commercial mildew remover may be necessary.
These products are designed to break down fungal growth quickly and are effective on towels, curtains, and heavily affected clothing. However, it’s important to check the label for fabric compatibility before use.
How to Use Oxygen Bleach or Borax Safely
Oxygen bleach is a powerful alternative to chlorine bleach and is safer for colored fabrics. To use, dissolve the powder in warm water and soak the clothing for several hours before washing.
Borax can also be added to the wash cycle to enhance mildew removal. Use the recommended amount on the packaging to avoid residue or fabric damage.
Fabric Care Tips to Avoid Damage
Always read the garment’s care label before applying any chemical treatment. Avoid using bleach on delicate materials like wool or silk. When using borax or oxygen bleach, rinse the clothing thoroughly to prevent buildup.
If you’re unsure, test the solution on a hidden area of the fabric to check for any adverse effects.
Precautions: Gloves, Ventilation, Patch Testing
Before handling any chemical cleaner, wear gloves to protect your skin. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. Always perform a patch test on a small, unseen area of the garment to ensure the treatment won’t cause discoloration or weaken the fabric.
Washing Techniques to Eliminate Mildew
Once mildew is visible or smells strong, washing alone may not be enough. However, using the right laundry techniques plays a critical role in how to get rid of mildew on clothes effectively and prevent its return.
Pre-Soak Methods for Mildew-Infested Clothing
Before starting a full wash cycle, pre-soaking can help loosen mildew and reduce stains. Soak the affected clothes in warm water mixed with white vinegar, baking soda, or a small amount of oxygen bleach.
Let them soak for 30 minutes to an hour. This step breaks down the mildew structure and prepares the fabric for a deeper clean.
Best Water Temperature Settings
Hot water is more effective at killing mildew spores, but always check the care label first. If the fabric can tolerate it, use the hottest setting recommended. For delicate items, warm water combined with a mildew-fighting additive is a safer option.
Additives That Kill Mildew and Neutralize Odor
To boost cleaning power, add one cup of white vinegar or half a cup of baking soda during the wash cycle. These natural additives help kill mildew and neutralize lingering odors. For tougher cases, a small amount of borax or oxygen bleach can be added, as long as it’s safe for the fabric.
Washing Machine Settings to Use
Select a heavy-duty or deep clean cycle for mildew-affected clothes. This setting uses more water and extends agitation time, which helps dislodge spores. If your washer has an extra rinse option, use it to ensure all mildew and cleaning agents are fully removed.
Drying Matters: Don’t Let Moisture Return
Drying clothes thoroughly is essential when learning how to get rid of mildew on clothes. Even after washing, leftover moisture creates the perfect conditions for mildew to return quickly.
Importance of Complete Drying
Clothes that remain damp invite mildew spores to grow again. To stop this cycle, ensure every part of the garment is fully dry before storing. Partial drying or drying in humid rooms increases mildew risk, especially on thick fabrics.
Sun-Drying vs. Machine Drying
Sunlight helps kill mildew naturally while drying clothes. Whenever possible, hang garments outside in direct sunlight. If that’s not an option, use a high-heat setting on a dryer, but avoid over-drying delicate fabrics that can shrink or weaken. Both methods remove moisture effectively and reduce odors.
Using Dehumidifiers or Fans Indoors
In humid climates or during rainy seasons, drying clothes indoors can be challenging. Using a dehumidifier or placing a fan near drying clothes helps speed evaporation and lowers indoor humidity. This extra step reduces the chance of mildew growth in enclosed spaces.
Storage Tips to Prevent Mildew from Coming Back
Store clothes only when completely dry. Use breathable fabric bags or cotton covers rather than plastic, which traps moisture. Keep closets well-ventilated and avoid overcrowding clothes to allow air circulation.
Regularly check stored clothes for early signs of mildew to catch problems before they spread.
How to Prevent Future Mildew on Clothes
Preventing mildew is easier than removing it. By adopting a few simple habits, you can protect your clothes from mildew and keep them fresh longer.
Never Leave Damp Clothes in Baskets or Washers
One of the main causes of mildew is leaving wet clothes sitting in laundry baskets or washing machines for hours or days. Always transfer damp garments to the dryer or hang them to air dry immediately after washing. This stops mildew spores from developing and spreading.
Use Breathable Storage Bags, Not Plastic
Avoid storing clothes in airtight plastic bags or containers, which trap moisture and promote mildew growth. Instead, choose breathable cotton or mesh storage bags that allow airflow.
Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and reduces the chance of mildew returning.
Laundry Schedule and Routine Changes
Regularly washing clothes before storage removes sweat, oils, and dirt that feed mildew. Establish a consistent laundry routine, especially for items like towels, gym wear, and bedding that frequently retain moisture. Quick washing cycles with mildew-fighting additives help maintain freshness.
Climate Control Tips for Closets and Wardrobes
Closets with poor airflow and high humidity create ideal conditions for mildew. Use dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers to keep humidity levels low. Leave closet doors open when possible to improve air circulation, and avoid overcrowding clothes to let air flow freely.
When to Throw Away Mildewed Clothes
Knowing when to let go of mildewed clothes is part of learning how to get rid of mildew on clothes effectively. Sometimes, the damage is beyond repair, and keeping the item could affect your health.
How to Assess Irreversible Fabric Damage
If mildew stains penetrate deeply, causing discoloration that does not fade after thorough washing, the fabric may be permanently damaged. Additionally, fabrics that feel weakened, brittle, or have holes should be discarded.
Persistent musty odors that refuse to disappear even after multiple cleanings also signal irreversible mildew damage.
Safety and Hygiene Considerations
Wearing heavily mildewed clothes can irritate the skin or trigger allergies, especially for sensitive individuals. Mold spores may become airborne, creating health risks indoors.
For this reason, it’s safer to remove severely affected clothing from your wardrobe to avoid contamination.
Alternatives: Upcycling or Disposing Responsibly
Before tossing mildewed clothes, consider repurposing them into cleaning rags or craft projects if the fabric is still usable. If disposal is necessary, avoid burning or throwing them in open areas to prevent spreading spores.
Check local guidelines for textile recycling programs or safe disposal methods.
FAQs
Yes, vinegar effectively breaks down mildew and eliminates its odor. Soaking clothes in white vinegar before washing helps kill mildew spores and prevents regrowth.
Mildew smell can disappear after thorough washing, especially when using additives like vinegar or baking soda. However, if clothes aren’t completely dried, the smell may return.
Mildew can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation, especially for sensitive individuals. Removing mildew promptly reduces health risks and keeps clothes safe to wear.
Removing mildew usually takes a few hours to a full day, depending on severity. Pre-soaking and sun-drying speed up the process and improve results.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to get rid of mildew on clothes is essential for keeping your wardrobe fresh and clean. Start by identifying mildew early through signs like discoloration and musty odors.
Use natural or chemical treatments depending on the severity, and always wash and dry clothes thoroughly to eliminate mildew completely.
Consistent laundry habits play a key role in preventing mildew from returning. Avoid leaving damp clothes unattended, store garments properly, and maintain good ventilation in your closets. These steps help protect your clothes and extend their lifespan.
By following these tips, you can maintain mildew-free clothing and enjoy fresh-smelling fabrics every day.