how to wash mould off fabric

how to wash mould off fabric

How to Wash Mould Off Fabric: A Complete Guide

Dealing with mould on fabric can be a daunting task, but understanding the proper techniques can simplify the process. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to wash mould off fabric effectively.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary supplies. You’ll need:

  • A soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush
  • White vinegar or lemon juice
  • Baking soda (optional)
  • Laundry detergent or a mild soap
  • A clean sponge or cloth
  • Water
  • A washing machine (if applicable)
  • Protective gear like gloves and a mask to avoid inhaling mould spores

Step 2: Brush Off the Mould

Take the affected fabric outdoors if possible to prevent the spread of spores inside your home. Using a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush, gently brush off as much mould as possible from the fabric. Be careful not to spread the mould to unaffected areas. If the mould problem is severe, you might also want to vacuum the fabric after brushing it off, ensuring to discard the vacuum bag and disinfect the vacuum unit afterward.

Step 3: Pre-Treat With Vinegar or Lemon Juice

Create a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water, or use pure lemon juice. Both are natural mould removers. Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the solution and dab the mouldy areas of the fabric thoroughly. Ensure the affected areas are saturated with the mixture. White vinegar is particularly effective as it kills mould and mildew without the risks associated with bleach, such as damaging fabric or releasing harmful gases.

Step 4: Scrub Gently with Baking Soda

For stubborn stains, baking soda can be highly effective. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto the damp, treated areas, and gently scrub with your soft brush or cloth. This step will help lift the mould while also neutralizing any odours. You can also mix baking soda with white vinegar to create a paste, which can be applied to the affected area and left to dry before brushing off and washing.

Step 5: Wash the Fabric

For machine-washable items, place the fabric in the washing machine with your regular laundry detergent. Use the hottest water safe for the fabric to ensure the removal of mould spores. Hot water, around 60°C, is particularly effective as most mould species cannot survive high temperatures.

For non-machine-washable fabrics, manually wash the treated areas with a mild detergent, thoroughly rinsing afterward to remove any mould residues. If the fabric is suitable, using a solution like Iosso Mold & Mildew Stain Remover can be effective. This solution is free of bleach and chlorine, making it safe for colorful fabrics and sewn seams.

Step 6: Dry the Fabric Completely

After washing, it’s critical to dry the fabric completely to prevent the return of mould. If possible, hang the fabric outdoors in natural sunlight, as the UV rays can help kill any remaining mould spores. If outdoor drying is not an option, use a dryer or hang the fabric in a well-ventilated area. Ensure the fabric is completely dry before storing it to prevent further mould growth.

Additional Methods for Stubborn Mould

Using Borax

For more severe mould cases, borax can be an effective treatment. Fill a basin or bucket with hot water, add ½ cup of powdered borax, and stir to dissolve. Submerge the mouldy fabric in this solution and let it soak for about 20 minutes before washing it in the washing machine with regular laundry detergent and hot water.

Using Oxygen Bleach

Oxygen bleach is a less harmful alternative to chlorine bleach and can be used on most color-fast fabrics. Mix oxygen bleach with water according to the product instructions, apply it to the mouldy areas, let it stand for 10-15 minutes, and then wash the fabric in hot water with regular laundry detergent.

Avoiding Bleach

While bleach can kill mould, it only kills surface mould and can weaken fabric fibers, potentially shortening the lifespan of your clothing. Additionally, bleach should never be mixed with other chemicals like vinegar, as it can produce dangerous gases.

Additional Tips for Mould Prevention

  • Ensure Items Are Fully Dry Before Storing: Moisture is a key factor in mould growth, so ensuring items are completely dry before storing them is crucial.
  • Use Dehumidifiers: In high-moisture areas, using dehumidifiers can help reduce the humidity levels, making it less conducive for mould growth.
  • Store Fabrics in Cool, Dry Environments: Storing fabrics in cool, dry environments can help prevent mould from developing.
  • Regularly Check and Clean Storage Areas: Regularly inspect and clean storage areas to prevent mould growth and ensure that your fabrics remain mould-free.

By following these steps and tips, you can effectively remove mould from fabric and prevent its return, keeping your items fresh and clean for years to come.

Q: What household items can be used to remove mould from fabric?
A: Household items like white vinegar, baking soda, and borax can effectively remove mould from fabric. Lemon juice and salt can also be useful for lighter stains.

Q: Can mould stain fabric permanently?
A: Yes, mould can sometimes leave permanent stains if not treated promptly. It’s important to address the issue as soon as it’s noticed to increase the chances of complete removal.

Q: Is it necessary to wear protective gear when washing mould off fabric?
A: Yes, it is advisable to wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from inhaling mould spores and to prevent skin irritation during the cleaning process.

Q: Can mould on fabric spread to other clothing items?
A: Yes, mould can spread to other fabrics if not properly isolated and cleaned. It’s recommended to wash mouldy items separately in hot water and to dry them thoroughly.

Q: How should I dry fabric after removing mould?
A: After washing the fabric, dry it in direct sunlight if possible. Sunlight has natural mould-killing properties. If using a dryer, make sure it is on a high heat setting to ensure the mould is fully eliminated.

Q: Can I use bleach to remove mould from fabric?
A: Bleach can be effective on white or colorfast fabrics but may damage or discolor delicate or non-colorfast items. Always perform a spot test and follow fabric care instructions.

Q: Is it safe to use a washing machine to clean mouldy fabric?
A: Yes, using a washing machine with hot water can effectively remove mould. However, it’s advisable to run an empty cycle with hot water and detergent after washing mouldy items to clean the machine.

Q: Should I throw away fabric that has been affected by mould?
A: Not necessarily. Many fabrics can be salvaged by swiftly treating the mould stain. However, if the mould has caused extensive damage or the fabric remains stained or odorous after multiple cleanings, it might be best to discard it.

Q: Can mould return after being washed off fabric?
A: Mould can return if the fabric remains in a damp or poorly ventilated environment. Ensure the fabric is completely dry and stored in a dry place to prevent mould recurrence.

Q: What should I do if mould odour persists after washing the fabric?
A: If the mould odour lingers, try washing the item again with a cup of white vinegar or baking soda to neutralize the smell. Drying the fabric in direct sunlight can also help eliminate odours.

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