Here’s how to get mold out of clothes:
- 1. Brush off any loose mold
- 2. Soak the moldy clothes in vinegar for one hour
- 3. Machine wash in warm water (if the fabric allows)
- 4. Air dry in direct sunlight
It’s a real-life nightmare: You pull out your favorite hoodie or fluffy towel from the laundry pile, only to find that it's covered in fuzzy, funky-smelling mold.
The scariest part about mold (besides the stench) is that it might be growing before your senses catch it. Microbial growth is happening around the clock, and the main culprit is your clothes being damp for too long—whether it’s from a forgotten gym bag, a rainy day wardrobe mishap, or just the inevitable post-laundry pileup. The good news is your moldy clothes can be salvaged (if you follow the right steps).
In this guide, you’ll learn how to fight back against moldy laundry using everyday ingredients, a little elbow grease, and the best laundry detergent in the game. Whether you’re dealing with a mild case of mold or a full-on fungal infestation, we’ve got you covered.
1. Brush Off Any Loose Mold
Before you start, take your moldy clothes outside to make sure the mold spores don’t spread and infest your home. Trust us, your indoor air quality will thank you. Give them a gentle shake to dislodge any loose spores (and if you’re sensitive to mold, a mask is a good idea).
Next, grab a soft brush. We’re talking about a soft-bristled brush, not your rough-and-tumble cleaning tool—this is delicate work. Gently scrub away any visible mold. Be thorough, but avoid scrubbing too hard; you don’t want to damage the fabric in the process. This is just the first step to clearing the way for more serious mold-fighting action.
2. Pre-Treat with Vinegar or Baking Soda
Once you've brushed off the loose mold, it’s time for the real action. You’ve got two powerful mold-busters to choose from: vinegar or baking soda. Either one can work wonders, so let’s break it down.
Vinegar: This pantry staple does double duty as an excellent mold-fighter. Fill a bucket or basin with enough distilled white vinegar to submerge the affected area of the fabric, and let it soak for about an hour. Vinegar not only kills the mold but also neutralizes any musty odors.
Baking Soda: If you prefer a less-smelly option, make a paste by mixing baking soda with a bit of water. Apply this paste to the moldy spots and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before gently scrubbing it off. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive, so it helps to lift the mold without being too harsh on your fabric.
Whichever route you choose, give your clothes some time to soak up the goodness before you hit the washing machine.
3. Wash with the Warmest Water Your Fabric Allows
Now that the pre-treatment is done, it’s time to toss those clothes into the washing machine. But before you press “start,” check the care labels to make sure you don’t set the water too hot for the fabric. You want to use the warmest water temperature that’s safe for your clothes. The hotter the water, the more effectively it will work to kill the mold.
For some extra mold-fighting muscle, add Laundry Sauce to your wash. Infused with luxurious fragrances and powerful bio-enzymes, it’ll take care of any lingering stains and odors while giving your clothes the TLC they deserve.
Pro Tip: For extra mold-fighting power, add 1/2 cup of borax to your washing machine. Just dissolve it in the hot water first to prevent any clumping issues. Borax helps to break down stubborn mold and mildew, giving your laundry an even deeper clean.
And the best part? Borax is fragrance-free, so your Laundry Sauce signature scent will still stick around after the wash!
4. Air Dry in Direct Sunlight
After your clothes have been thoroughly washed, it’s time for them to dry—specifically in the sun. Air drying your clothes outdoors in direct sunlight is like sending them to a mold-fighting spa. The UV rays from the sun help to kill any remaining mold spores and deodorize your clothes naturally.
Avoid using the dryer (unless you absolutely have to). The heat can set the mold stains, making them harder to remove in the future.
Common Questions About Removing Mold from Clothes
We’ve got answers to the most common mold-related laundry dilemmas.
Should You Throw Away Moldy Clothes?
In most cases, moldy clothes can be cleaned and restored. With the right treatment, most items can be saved. If the fabric is severely damaged or the mold just won’t budge, then it might be time to part ways.
What’s the Best Laundry Detergent to Remove Mold?
The best detergent for mold removal is a concentrated, enzyme-based formula like Laundry Sauce. Our XL pods are enriched with bio-enzymes to break down stains and odors while infusing your fabrics with luxurious fragrance.
How Can You Prevent Moldy Clothes?
To keep mold from making a return, always ensure your clothes are completely dry before putting them away. Store your clothes in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Using moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packs can help keep your closet free of excess moisture. Also, consider using a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements or bathrooms to control humidity.
Go from Moldy to Marvelous with Laundry Sauce
Congrats, you’ve just kicked mold to the curb. Now, let’s talk about the most important part: making sure your clothes smell as amazing as they look.
Enter Laundry Sauce: the world’s best-smelling laundry detergent. Sure, it obliterates mold, mildew, and many other types of grime. But it also infuses your clothes with luxurious fragrances like Australian Sandalwood and Spanish Leather.
Stop settling for just plain old “clean.” Take our 2-minute quiz and discover your signature scent.
