White distilled vinegar is often effective for killing mold and removing it from clothes. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get mold out of clothes:
Steps to Remove Mold from Clothing:
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Preparation:
- Take the moldy clothes outside to prevent spreading spores inside your home.
- Wear a mask and gloves to protect yourself from mold exposure.
- Brush off any loose mold from the fabric.
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Pre-Treatment (Vinegar Soak):
- Option 1 (Soaking): Fill a bucket or tub with cool water and add one cup of white distilled vinegar. Submerge the moldy clothing and let it soak for at least an hour, or preferably overnight. This helps to kill the mold and loosen its grip on the fabric.
- Option 2 (Direct Application): For localized mold stains, you can apply undiluted white distilled vinegar directly to the affected area. Let it sit for about 30 minutes before washing.
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Washing:
- Wash the clothes in your washing machine using hot water. Always check the care label of the garment first. If the garment cannot be washed in hot water, use the warmest water recommended.
- Add your regular laundry detergent.
- Consider adding a cup of borax to the wash cycle for extra cleaning power. Borax can help kill mold and remove stains.
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Drying:
- Air Dry: The best option is to air dry the clothing outside in direct sunlight. The sun's UV rays can help kill any remaining mold spores and further bleach the stain.
- Machine Drying: If you must use a dryer, check to ensure the stain is completely gone. Drying the clothing in a machine before the mold is fully removed can set the stain.
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Inspection and Repetition:
- Carefully inspect the clothing after washing and drying. If any mold stains remain, repeat the process. You may need to soak the clothing for a longer period or try a different cleaning solution.
- For persistent stains, consider using a mold-specific stain remover or consulting a professional cleaner.
Alternative Methods:
While white vinegar is often the first choice, here are some alternatives:
- Baking Soda: Make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the moldy area, let it dry, and then brush it off.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Test on an inconspicuous area first. If safe, spray hydrogen peroxide on the moldy spot, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then wash as usual.
- Lemon Juice: Apply lemon juice to the mold, let it sit for a while, and then wash the garment.
Important Considerations:
- Always test any cleaning solution on a small, hidden area of the garment before applying it to the entire stain to ensure it doesn't damage the fabric.
- If the mold infestation is severe, or if you are allergic to mold, it's best to discard the clothing.
- Improve ventilation in your home and address any sources of moisture to prevent mold growth in the future.
