If you discover mould stains on your clothes, remove them as soon as possible to prevent them from spreading and damaging the fabric. Mould can cause an unpleasant odour and is more difficult to remove if left on the clothing for too long.
How Does Mould Form on Clothing?
Mould most commonly appears on fabrics that are stored in poorly ventilated, damp areas, or when clothes are left wet in a closed environment, such as a laundry basket or sports bag.
It most commonly occurs on natural materials such as cotton, wool, or linen, but it can also appear on synthetic fabrics that trap moisture.
Tips for Washing Mould Out of Clothes:
- Vinegar: Mix equal parts of vinegar and water, and soak the clothes for 30 minutes. Vinegar helps kill mould spores and neutralises the odour.
- Baking Soda: Add a tablespoon of baking soda to water and soak the clothes. Baking soda effectively helps remove mould and freshens the fabric.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: For light-coloured clothing, you can use hydrogen peroxide. Apply it to the affected area, leave it to work for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly and wash.
- Mould-Fighting Laundry Detergent: Use a special laundry detergent designed to fight mould and wash the clothes according to the label instructions.
- Sun Drying: After washing, hang the clothes out in direct sunlight. UV rays from the sun help kill any remaining mould and give the clothes a fresh scent.