Homekitchenmagazine.com | How To Get Rid of Mildew on Clothes – Upset because the clothes stored in the wardrobe have mold? Don’t throw it away just yet, here are the ways to get rid of mold on clothes that have proven to be effective along with tips to prevent it!
Clothing is the need for clothing that is needed by everyone.
As a daily necessity, of course you want to wear clothes that are clean, neat, and smell good.
Unfortunately, the problem of musty and moldy smelling clothes often interferes with the comfort of the dressing.
Dealing with mildew stains on clothes can be frustrating. Not only do these unsightly spots affect the appearance of our favorite garments, but they can also create an unpleasant odor.
While commercial cleaners are available, they often contain harsh chemicals that may harm fabrics or trigger allergies. Luckily, there are several natural remedies you can use to effectively remove mildew stains from clothes.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the methods mentioned in the source article, along with additional techniques and tips to tackle mildew stains.
But before that, you should first know the cause of moldy clothes.
That way, you can anticipate it in the future.
Compiled from various sources, there are several factors that cause moldy and musty-smelling clothes.
Here are the factors that cause moldy clothes and how to overcome them.
Causes of Moldy Clothes
1. Clothesline that is not yet dry
Clothes that are not completely dry can cause mildew to form on the clothes.
Therefore, make sure the clothes are completely dry before putting them in the closet.
You need to know, sunlight helps kill germs, bacteria, and fungi on clothes.
2. Humid Closet Conditions
The second cause is the condition of the wardrobe which is already bad, or damps.
Humid cupboards make it easy for mold to grow among piles of stored clothes.
Make sure the location of the cupboard is not attached directly to the wall and is not exposed to water or stored in a wet place.
3. Clothes are kept in the closet for too long
Finally, clothes that are stored in the closet for too long can cause mold.
The reason is, clothes do not get air or light which makes it easy to mold.
It’s a good idea to keep clothes that are really used only.
How To Get Rid of Mildew on Clothes. Proven Effective!
1. Using Liquid Detergent
Some liquid detergents are formulated with ingredients that can clean stains and mildew on clothes.
Liquid detergent absorbs more easily into clothing fibers, making it more effective at cleaning mildew than powder detergent.
You only need to soak the clothes in a bucket filled with warm water and liquid detergent.
Leave it for 10 minutes, then rub the clothes until they are clean.
2. How to get rid of mildew on clothes with citrus?
The next way How To Get Rid of Mildew on Clothes is using citus. Citrus which is known as a food acid can be used to get rid of mold on clothes.
How to use the same as get rid of mildew on clothes using white vinegar.
Dissolve citron in hot water, then soaks the clothes for 10 minutes.
When the water starts to warm, I can immediately check my clothes until the mold disappears.
After that, rinse the clothes with clean water, then dry them in the hot sun.
3. Using Borax
Next, you can use borax to get rid of mildew on clothes.
Borax dissolves in water and mixes when washing clothes with detergent.
Mix borax in the detergent soaking water that has been filled with moldy clothes.
Let stand 5-10 minutes, then I check and rinse with clean water.
4. Using Mouthwash
The next way How To Get Rid of Mildew on Clothes is using mouthwash. In addition to the ingredients above, it turns out that mouthwash can kill fungus.
This was revealed in the study journal of Oral Diseases.
It is stated that several brands of mouthwash available in the market can eradicate Candida albicans and Candida krusei fungi.
The trick, dissolve mouthwash in water that has been filled with moldy clothes.
After the mildew stains have faded, you can brush them off with the help of detergent.
Then wash clothes as usual.
5. Vinegar and Baking Soda
Vinegar and baking soda are two powerful ingredients commonly found in our kitchens that can work wonders on mildew stains. Start by mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Spray the affected area generously and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Next, create a paste by combining baking soda and water. Gently rub the paste onto the stain using a soft brush or cloth. Rinse the garment thoroughly and wash it as usual.
6. Lemon Juice and Salt
Lemons are natural disinfectants and can effectively combat mildew stains. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the affected area and sprinkle a generous amount of salt over it. Rub the lemon juice and salt into the fabric using a cloth or sponge.
Allow it to sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing the garment with cold water. Repeat the process if necessary and wash the item according to the care instructions.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful and natural bleaching agent that can help remove mildew stains from clothes. Dilute hydrogen peroxide with water, following a ratio of 1:2 (one part hydrogen peroxide, two parts water).
Apply the mixture to the stained area using a cloth or sponge and allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse the garment thoroughly and wash it as usual. Note that hydrogen peroxide may have a bleaching effect on colored fabrics, so perform a patch test first.
8. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is renowned for its antifungal properties and can be an effective solution against mildew stains. Add a few drops of tea tree oil to a spray bottle filled with water and shake well. Spray the mixture onto the affected area and let it sit for 15 minutes.
Gently scrub the stain using a soft brush or cloth, and then rinse the garment thoroughly. Launder the item as you normally would.
Expert Tips
- Act quickly: The sooner you address mildew stains, the easier they will be to remove. Prompt action can prevent the spread of the fungus and reduce the risk of permanent damage to the fabric.
- Sunlight: After treating the stain, let the garment dry in direct sunlight if possible. Sunlight has natural bleaching properties and can help eliminate lingering mildew stains and odors.
- Proper ventilation: Ensure that your wardrobe and storage areas are well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, which promotes the growth of mildew.
- Regular cleaning: Regularly launder your clothes to prevent mildew growth. Properly dry them before storing, as damp clothes are more susceptible to fungal infestations.
Tips for storing clothes so they don’t get moldy
1. Use Camphor
Camphor or camphor works to prevent the growth of mold on clothes.
In addition, camphor can prevent the air in the cupboard from becoming moist.
2. Cover the Wardrobe with Paper
The second tip, you can coat wardrobe with a base of paper or newspaper.
The paper placed in the cupboard can absorb moisture. Don’t forget to change the paper periodically if it feels damp enough.
3. Don’t put wet clothes
Finally, don’t occasionally put wet clothes or towels in a pile of clothes.
Wet or not yet dry clothes have the potential to grow mold both in the rainy and dry seasons.
Commonly Asked Questions About Mildew on Clothes
Are there any precautions I should take when using natural remedies?
Some natural ingredients like lemon juice and hydrogen peroxide can have a bleaching effect. Take care when applying these remedies to colored fabrics and always perform a patch test.
Additionally, ensure proper ventilation when using vinegar or tea tree oil to prevent strong odors from lingering.
Can I prevent mildew stains from forming on clothes?
Yes, prevention is key. Store clothes in a cool and dry environment, avoid packing them too tightly, and use moisture-absorbing products like silica gel or cedar chips in your storage areas.
Wrap Up
Mildew stains on clothes can be stubborn, but with the right approach, they can be effectively removed using natural remedies. Liquid detergent, citrus, borax, mouthwash, vinegar and baking soda, lemon juice and salt, hydrogen peroxide, and tea tree oil are all excellent options to combat mildew stains.
Remember to act quickly, follow proper ventilation practices, and regularly clean and dry your clothes to prevent mildew growth in the future. By incorporating these methods and tips into your laundry routine, you can say goodbye to mildew stains and enjoy fresh, clean clothes once again.
Well, that’s the ways to get rid of mold on clothes along with tips to prevent it.
Hopefully useful.
