5 Ways to Eliminate Mildew Smell from Clothes

Image of mildew-smelling clothes
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Musty clothes are a common problem, especially during the summer months. The reason your clothes develop a musty smell is because of mildew growth. Mildew is a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. It can grow on many different surfaces, including clothing. If you have clothes that smell musty, it’s important to get rid of the smell as soon as possible. Mildew can cause respiratory problems, and it can also damage your clothes.

There are a few different ways to get mildew smell out of clothes. One way is to use a commercial mildew remover. These products are available at most hardware stores. Another way to get rid of mildew smell is to use a mixture of vinegar and water. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on the musty clothes and let it sit for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, wash the clothes in your washing machine.

If you don’t have any commercial mildew remover or vinegar on hand, you can try using baking soda. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer. To use baking soda to get mildew smell out of clothes, sprinkle baking soda on the musty clothes. Let the baking soda sit for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, vacuum up the baking soda.

Identify the Source of the Mildew Smell

Uncovering the root of the mildew odor in your clothing is crucial to effective odor elimination. The musty scent originates from mold and mildew growth, often found in humid or poorly ventilated areas. Here are some common sources and their telltale signs:

Clothing Left Damp

Damp clothes provide an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew. If you forget a load of laundry in the washing machine or leave wet clothes unattended, they become prime targets for these microorganisms. The odor is often accompanied by visible mold or mildew growth.

Damp Environment

Closets, drawers, and laundry rooms can become breeding grounds for mildew when they lack proper ventilation. Airflow helps remove moisture and prevent mold growth, but excessive humidity can lead to musty odors in stored clothing. Check for any signs of moisture or condensation in these areas.

Other Sources

While clothing is the most common source of mildew odors, other items can also harbor mold and mildew. Inspect your home for damp areas, such as under sinks, in bathrooms, or in basements. These areas can release spores that can attach to clothing and cause odor problems.

Source	Telltale Signs
Damp clothing	Visible mold or mildew growth
Damp environment	Moisture or condensation in closets, drawers, or laundry rooms
Other sources	Damp areas under sinks, in bathrooms, or in basements

Remove Mildew Stains

Mildew stains can be a stubborn and unsightly problem. Here are some effective methods to remove mildew stains from clothing:

Sunlight

Sunlight is a natural bleaching agent that can help to remove mildew stains. Spread the stained garment out in direct sunlight for several hours. Check the garment periodically to see if the stain has faded.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is a mild acid that can help to break down mildew stains. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stained area and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Rinse the garment thoroughly with cold water.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and stain remover. Make a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply the paste to the stained area and allow it to sit for several hours. Rinse the garment thoroughly with cold water.

Commercial Mildew Stain Removers

There are a number of commercial mildew stain removers available. These products are typically formulated with enzymes that break down mildew spores. Follow the directions on the product label carefully.

Table of Recommended Stain Removal Treatments

Stain Type	Treatment
Light mildew stain	Sunlight or white vinegar
Stubborn mildew stain	Baking soda or commercial mildew stain remover

Treat Clothes with Vinegar Solution

Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and disinfectant that can help remove mildew smell from clothes. To use the vinegar solution method, follow these steps:

Prepare the Solution:

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and cool water in a large basin or bucket. Do not use hot water, as it can set the mildew stain.

Soak the Clothes:

Submerge the mildewed clothes in the vinegar solution. Ensure they are completely covered by the liquid.

Soaking Time:

Allow the clothes to soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight if the mildew smell is particularly strong.

Rinse and Wash:

After soaking, remove the clothes from the vinegar solution and rinse them thoroughly with cold water. Then, launder the clothes as usual, using your regular laundry detergent and the appropriate water temperature for the fabric type.

Note: For delicate fabrics, such as silk or wool, test the vinegar solution on an inconspicuous area before immersing the entire garment.

Benefits of Using Vinegar Solution:	Cautions:
Neutralizes mildew odors Disinfects the fabric	May lighten the color of dark fabrics Can irritate sensitive skin

Use Baking Soda to Deodorize

Baking soda is a natural odor absorber and neutralizer that can effectively remove mildew smell from clothes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use baking soda to deodorize clothes:

1. Create a Baking Soda Paste

Mix 1 cup of baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste. The paste should be of a consistency that you can apply it to the affected area of the clothing.

2. Apply the Paste to the Mildewed Area

Using a soft cloth or brush, apply the baking soda paste to the mildewed area of the clothing. Rub the paste gently into the fabric to ensure proper penetration.

3. Let the Baking Soda Sit

Allow the baking soda paste to sit on the mildewed area for several hours, or even overnight. This will give the baking soda time to absorb and neutralize the odor-causing bacteria.

4. Rinse and Launder the Clothing

After the baking soda has sat, rinse the affected area thoroughly with cold water to remove any residue. Then, launder the clothing as usual. You may need to repeat the process if the mildew smell persists.

Tips for Using Baking Soda to Remove Mildew Smell:

• Use white vinegar as a natural fabric softener to help eliminate any remaining odor.

• For delicate fabrics, replace the baking soda paste with a mixture of 1 cup of baking soda and 1 gallon of cold water.

• Do not use bleach, as it can weaken the fabric and even make the mildew smell worse.

• Always test the baking soda solution on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it does not cause discoloration.

Dry Clothes in Sunlight

Sunlight is a natural disinfectant that can help kill bacteria and remove mildew odor from clothes. To dry clothes in sunlight:

Wash the clothes with a mildew-killing detergent.
Rinse the clothes thoroughly.
Hang the clothes on a clothesline in direct sunlight.
Allow the clothes to dry completely.
Once the clothes are dry, check if the mildew odor has been removed. If the odor persists, repeat the process.

Benefits of Drying Clothes in Sunlight	Drawbacks of Drying Clothes in Sunlight
Kills bacteria and removes mildew odor Naturally brightens clothes Free and environmentally friendly	Can take longer to dry than in a dryer Clothes may fade if left in direct sunlight for too long Not suitable for rainy or cloudy weather

Tips:

If the clothes are heavily mildewed, you may need to soak them in a bleach solution before washing them.
Do not dry clothes in sunlight on a humid day, as this can worsen the mildew odor.
Once the clothes are dry, store them in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew from returning.

Launder Clothes with Bleach

If you’re dealing with stubborn mildew stains or odors, using bleach may be necessary. However, it’s crucial to note that bleach should only be used on white or color-safe fabrics; otherwise, it may damage the fabric or cause discoloration. Here are some steps to consider when laundering clothes with bleach:

1. **Check the Fabric Label:** Before applying bleach, always check the fabric care label to ensure it is bleach-safe.

2. **Use Diluted Bleach Solution:** Mix 1 cup (240 ml) of liquid bleach with 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of cold water in a bucket or sink.

3. **Soak the Fabric:** Submerge the mildewed items in the bleach solution for 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the severity of the stain or odor.

4. **Agitate Regularly:** Stir or agitate the items occasionally to ensure even distribution of the bleach solution.

5. **Rinse Thoroughly:** After soaking, rinse the items thoroughly with cold water to remove any remaining bleach residue.

6. **Wash and Dry:** Add the mildewed items to a regular laundry cycle with your preferred detergent and wash them according to the fabric care instructions. Ensure the items are completely dry before storing them to prevent mildew from reoccurring.

Additional Tips for Using Bleach:

Bleach Type	Suitable Fabrics
Chlorine Bleach	White and color-safe fabrics
Oxygen Bleach	Colored fabrics, white fabrics, and delicate materials

Remember to always wear gloves when handling bleach, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific bleach usage.

Utilize Commercial Mildew Removers

Commercial mildew removers are readily available over-the-counter and offer a potent option for eliminating mildew odor. These products typically contain active ingredients like chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide, which effectively kill mildew spores. Before using any commercial remover, always read and follow the instructions carefully to ensure safe handling and effective results.

Types of Commercial Mildew Removers

There are various types of commercial mildew removers available, each formulated differently for specific fabrics and surfaces. Here’s a brief overview of some common options:

Product Type Suitable for

Chlorine Bleach-Based White cotton, linen fabrics

Hydrogen Peroxide-Based Colored fabrics, silks, woolens

Oxygen Bleach-Based All fabrics, including synthetics

Enzymatic Cleaners Organic fabrics, such as wool and silk

When selecting a commercial mildew remover, carefully consider the type of fabric you’re treating and choose a product specifically designed for that material. Adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions and using the correct dosage is crucial for both safety and effectiveness.

Product Type	Suitable for
Chlorine Bleach-Based	White cotton, linen fabrics
Hydrogen Peroxide-Based	Colored fabrics, silks, woolens
Oxygen Bleach-Based	All fabrics, including synthetics
Enzymatic Cleaners	Organic fabrics, such as wool and silk

Air Out Clothes Thoroughly

Airing out your clothes is a simple and effective way to remove the musty smell. Hang your clothes on a clothesline or drying rack in a well-ventilated area, such as a balcony, porch, or backyard. Exposing them to fresh air will help to dissipate the odor.

Tips for Airing Out Clothes:

Tip	Reason
Choose a sunny day.	Sunlight can help to deodorize and disinfect your clothes.
Shake your clothes before hanging them.	This will help to release any trapped moisture or odor.
Leave plenty of space between garments.	This will allow air to circulate freely.
Turn your clothes occasionally.	This will ensure that all sides of the clothes are exposed to fresh air.
Air your clothes for several hours, or even overnight.	This will give the odor ample time to dissipate.

What is Mildew?

Mildew is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces. It can appear as a white or gray mold and has a musty smell. Mildew can grow on clothes, furniture, walls, and other surfaces that are exposed to moisture.

How to Get Mildew Smell Out of Clothes

If you have clothes that smell like mildew, there are a few things you can do to remove the smell.

Wash the clothes in hot water. The hot water will kill the mildew spores and remove the smell.
Add bleach to the wash cycle. Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that will kill mildew spores and remove the smell.
Dry the clothes in the sun. The sun’s UV rays will help to kill mildew spores and remove the smell.
Vinegar. Add 1 cup of white vinegar to your washing machine along with your detergent. This will help to kill the mildew and remove the smell.
Baking soda. Add 1 cup of baking soda to your washing machine along with your detergent. This will help to neutralize the odor and remove the smell.

Prevent Mildew Growth in Future

How to Prevent Mildew Growth in the Future

There are a few things you can do to prevent mildew growth in the future.

Keep your clothes dry. Mildew grows in damp environments, so it’s important to keep your clothes dry. Hang your clothes to dry after washing them, and don’t leave them in a pile on the floor.
Ventilate your home. Mildew thrives in humid environments, so it’s important to ventilate your home to keep the humidity levels down. Open your windows and doors to let in fresh air, and use fans to circulate the air.
Clean regularly. Mildew can grow on any surface that is exposed to moisture, so it’s important to clean your home regularly to remove any potential breeding grounds for mildew.

Product	Instructions
Vinegar	Add 1 cup of white vinegar to your washing machine along with your detergent.
Baking soda	Add 1 cup of baking soda to your washing machine along with your detergent.
Bleach	Add bleach to the wash cycle according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Additional Tips for Persistent Odors

If the mildew smell persists despite following the above steps, consider trying the following advanced techniques:

1. Hydrogen Peroxide

Mix 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1/2 cup of water. Apply the solution to the affected area and let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

2. Baking Soda Paste

Create a paste by mixing 1 cup of baking soda with enough water to form a thick consistency. Apply the paste to the mildewed area, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it sit overnight. Vacuum or brush off the dried baking soda the next day.

3. Vinegar Soak

Fill a sink or tub with cold water and add 1 cup of white vinegar. Submerge the mildewed clothing in the vinegar solution and soak it for several hours. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.

4. Commercial Mildew Removers

There are a variety of commercial mildew removers available. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using these products.

5. Steam Treatment

Hang the mildewed clothing in a bathroom and run a hot shower to fill the room with steam. The steam will help to kill the mildew spores.

6. Sunlight

If possible, hang the mildewed clothing outside in direct sunlight. The sun’s UV rays will help to kill the mildew spores.

7. Professional Cleaning

If all else fails, consider taking the mildewed clothing to a professional dry cleaner or laundry service.

8. Prevention

To prevent mildew from forming in the first place, keep clothing dry and well-ventilated. Avoid leaving wet clothing in the washer or dryer for extended periods.

9. Storing Mildew-Free Clothes

When storing clean clothes, make sure they are completely dry. Store them in a cool, dry place with good ventilation.

10. Dehumidification

If your home is particularly humid, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce the moisture levels. This will help to prevent mildew from growing.

How To Get Mildew Smell Out Of Clothes

Mildew is a type of mold that can grow on clothes, especially if they are damp or not properly dried. Mildew can cause clothes to smell musty and can also damage the fabric. There are a few different ways to get mildew smell out of clothes, depending on how severe the mildew is.

If the mildew is just starting to grow, you may be able to remove it by washing the clothes in hot water with a strong detergent. You can also add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle to help kill the mildew. If the mildew is more severe, you may need to soak the clothes in a solution of water and bleach before washing them.

To soak the clothes in a bleach solution, mix one part bleach to four parts water. Soak the clothes in the solution for at least 30 minutes, then wash them as usual. Be sure to rinse the clothes thoroughly after washing to remove any remaining bleach.

If the mildew smell is still present after washing, you can try using a commercial mildew remover. Mildew removers are available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. Follow the directions on the package for use.