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Date: April 1991 (Revised April 1995)
Source: NDSU Extension Youth and Family Specialist
To remove mildew or mold from washable fabrics follow these steps: Gently brush off any excess stain. Launder garment following instructions on care label. Do not machine dry garment as heat could set the stain. Instead, dry garment in the sun. If stain remains, try one or both of the following methods:
1. Check the care label to see if there are precautions given in regard to using a bleach. If no precautions are given, soak stained area in a solution of 1/4 cup chlorine bleach and 3/4 cup water. If the care label says use oxygen-type bleach only, soak stained area in a solution of 1/4 cup oxygen-type bleach and 3/4 cup water. Rewash garment, but do not machine dry. If stain remains repeat this process.
2. Sponge the stained area with a drycleaning solvent such as Energine. Remove as much of the stain as possible. Launder garment.
Before attempting to remove a stain, test the suggested stain removal product on a seam allowance, inside pocket or other inconspicuous area. If you do not have the time or the stain removal products on hand, or are concerned about damaging the garment, ask your local drycleaner to remove the stain. In some cases stains are impossible to remove either by home methods or by a drycleaner.
If you have more questions, please contact your county office of the NDSU Extension Service.
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