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Finding mould on your clothes can be frustrating—whether it’s your favourite jumper, a delicate dress, or your children’s school uniforms. In damp UK homes, mould growth on fabrics is a common issue caused by poor ventilation, drying clothes indoors, or leaving laundry damp for too long.
In this article, we’ll show you how to get mould off clothes safely, restore freshness, and prevent mould from coming back.
Why Does Mould Grow on Clothes?
Mould thrives in warm, damp, and dark environments. Clothes are especially vulnerable when:
- Left damp in washing machines (linking back to is black mould in washing machine dangerous).
- Dried indoors without ventilation, causing condensation.
- Stored in wardrobes against damp walls.
- Exposed to flooding or leaks.
Once mould spores settle, they feed on natural fibres like cotton and wool, causing musty smells and stains.
Read also- How to stop mould in a house
Risks of Wearing Mouldy Clothes
It’s important to act quickly because mouldy clothes can:
- Cause skin irritation – leading to rashes or itching.
- Trigger respiratory issues – spores can worsen asthma or allergies.
- Damage fabrics – mould weakens fibres, leaving stains that may become permanent.
The NHS advises removing mould promptly, especially for people with existing health conditions.
Read also- How to get rid of black mould on walls permanently
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Mould off Clothes
1. Pre-Treat the Stains
- Brush off loose spores outdoors to prevent spreading indoors.
- Avoid inhaling directly – wear gloves and a mask if possible.
2. Choose a Cleaning Solution
Some effective mould removal options include:
- White vinegar – soak the garment in 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water for at least an hour.
- Baking soda – add half a cup to your washing machine alongside detergent.
- Borax (for whites) – effective but should be used with care.
- Commercial anti-mould laundry detergents – available from UK retailers such as Lakeland.
3. Wash on a Hot Cycle
- Wash clothes at the highest temperature suitable for the fabric.
- Add a cup of vinegar or baking soda to kill spores.
4. Dry Thoroughly
- Always air dry in direct sunlight where possible, as UV rays kill mould spores.
- Avoid tumble drying until you are sure the mould is fully removed – heat can set stains.
5. Repeat if Necessary
Stubborn stains may need multiple treatments. If mould persists, it may be safer to dispose of heavily contaminated clothes.
Natural Remedies vs. Chemical Solutions
While natural methods like vinegar and baking soda are safer for delicate fabrics, chemical treatments are sometimes needed for tougher stains. For example, oxygen bleach works well for whites but should never be used on wool or silk.
Read also- How to remove black mould
How to Prevent Mould on Clothes
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some practical tips:
- Avoid leaving damp laundry in the washing machine.
- Dry clothes outdoors whenever possible.
- Use a dehumidifier in bedrooms and laundry rooms.
- Improve wardrobe ventilation by leaving gaps between clothes and walls.
- Store clothes clean and dry – never pack away damp items.
Read also- How to remove mould from fabric
Conclusion
Knowing how to get mould off clothes can save your wardrobe, protect your health, and prevent unnecessary waste. With simple household solutions like vinegar and baking soda, combined with proper drying and ventilation, you can restore freshness and keep your clothes mould-free.
The key takeaway? Act quickly – the longer mould sits on fabric, the harder it is to remove.
FAQs
- Can I use bleach to remove mould from clothes?
Yes, but only on white cotton fabrics. Bleach can damage coloured or delicate fabrics. - Does washing clothes kill mould spores?
Not always. Standard washing may not remove spores – using vinegar, baking soda, or hot water is more effective. - Should I throw away mouldy clothes?
If mould stains are severe or the fabric is delicate, disposal may be the safest option. However, many clothes can be saved with proper treatment.
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