Cleaning Colored Clothes With Mold
Mold can be a relentless and unsightly problem, and one that is especially challenging to deal with when it appears on colored clothing. Mold on clothing is always harmful, as it can cause damage to the fabric and also spread and grow on other items of clothing or fabrics nearby. Luckily, there are a few techniques for removing mold from colored fabric that can be effective and keep your clothes looking good.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
- Detergent: To help break down mold spores, use a heavy-duty detergent containing enzymes.
- Bleach: If your clothes can be safely bleached, use a special colored-safe bleach, which includes special agents to help keep color in the fabric and prevent fading.
- Vinegar: You can use white vinegar in the wash along with detergent and bleach to help fight mold.
- Baking soda: Adding baking soda to the wash water can help in lifting out mold and freshening the clothing.
Steps for Cleaning Mold:
- Pre-treat the mold on the clothing before laundering. Use hot water and the heavy-duty detergent and scrub the fabric, allowing the soap to penetrate the fabric.
- Soak the clothing in a solution made of 1/2 cup of bleach and 1 gallon of warm water, allowing it to sit in the solution for at least 30 minutes.
- Wash the clothing in warm water, using the detergent and adding 1/2 cup of white vinegar and 1/2 cup of baking soda to the wash cycle.
- If the mold is not completely gone, repeat the soaking and laundering process.
- When completely dry, hang the clothing in an area with circulation and check for any remaining mold before wearing.
Important Notes:
- Only use white vinegar for cleaning mold from colored clothes, as other vinegars can discolor the fabric.
- Before washing, carefully read the care label for the clothing. Some fabric may not tolerate bleach or vinegar.
- Try to dry your clothes in direct sunlight, as this can help to prevent mold from coming back.
- If you can’t get the mold out with laundering, consider having the item professionally cleaned.
Removing mold from colored clothing can be challenging, but with the right care, you can keep your clothes looking good and free from mold.