{"id":45874,"date":"2025-09-15T13:49:21","date_gmt":"2025-09-15T13:49:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/?p=45874"},"modified":"2025-11-17T16:25:11","modified_gmt":"2025-11-17T16:25:11","slug":"how-to-wash-moldy-clothes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/how-to-wash-moldy-clothes\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Ways To Eliminate Mould on Your Clothes"},"content":{"rendered":"<span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 4<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>\n<p>Mould on clothes is more than just an unpleasant surprise\u2014it can damage fabrics, leave stubborn stains, and even pose health risks. Whether it&#8217;s due to forgotten laundry in the washer or damp storage conditions, knowing how to tackle mould properly can save your favourite outfits and keep your home healthier.&nbsp;In this guide, we\u2019ll break down <strong>why mould grows on clothes<\/strong>, how to <strong>safely remove it<\/strong>, and <strong>how to prevent it<\/strong> in the future. Let\u2019s dive in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/how-to-wash-moldy-clothes-1024x683.png\" alt=\"how to wash moldy clothes\" class=\"wp-image-45875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/how-to-wash-moldy-clothes-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/how-to-wash-moldy-clothes-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/how-to-wash-moldy-clothes-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/how-to-wash-moldy-clothes.png 1344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-causes-mould-on-clothes\">What Causes Mould on Clothes?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ever wondered why those <strong>pesky mould spots<\/strong> keep appearing on your clothes? Well, mould is quite the opportunist \u2013 it loves nothing more than a damp, dark environment to call home. The most common culprits? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/mould-in-washing-machine\/\">Leaving wet clothes in the washing machine can cause mould<\/a> (guilty as charged!), storing damp items in poorly ventilated closets, or keeping clothes in humid basements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-high-risk-situations-to-avoid\">High-Risk Situations to Avoid<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Forgotten washing <strong>machine loads<\/strong>. This can also make your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/washing-machine-smells-bad\/\">washing machine to develop a bad odour<\/a> over time.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Damp clothes<\/strong> stored in plastic bags<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wet towels<\/strong> left in gym bags<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clothes stored in <strong>humid basements<\/strong> or attics<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-signs-your-clothes-have-mould\">Signs Your Clothes Have Mould<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Not sure if you&#8217;re dealing with mould? Here are the telltale signs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Musty odours<\/strong> that make your nose wrinkle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Discoloured spots <\/strong>in white, grey, or black<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A fuzzy or<strong> slimy texture<\/strong> on fabric<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Allergic reactions<\/strong> when wearing certain clothes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-should-you-throw-out-mouldy-clothing\">Should You Throw Out Mouldy Clothing?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The big question \u2013 to bin or not to bin? While we&#8217;re all about saving your favourite pieces, sometimes it&#8217;s better to say goodbye. Here&#8217;s our honest guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Save if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The mould is <strong>recent<\/strong> and surface-level<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The fabric is <strong>machine-washable<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There&#8217;s <strong>minimal discolouration<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The item is structurally <strong>sound<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Time to let go when:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The mould has eaten through the fabric<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There are holes or severe damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The item is dry-clean only with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/how-to-get-rid-of-black-mold-9-ways-to-kill-it\/\">extensive black mould<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You&#8217;ve tried cleaning with no success<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-remove-mould-from-fabric-step-by-step-guide\">How to Remove Mould from fabric: Step-by-Step Guide<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-getting-ready\">Getting Ready<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Safety first, fashion second! Before we start <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/how-to-remove-mould-from-fabric\/\">removing mould from your favorite fabric<\/a>, let&#8217;s gear up properly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Essential supplies:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rubber gloves (your hands will thank you)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Face mask (no one wants to breathe in spores)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>White vinegar (your new best friend)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Baking soda (the unsung hero)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regular laundry detergent<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soft-bristled brush<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:18px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Always work in a <strong>well-ventilated area<\/strong> \u2013 your bathroom might be Instagram-worthy, but your garden or balcony is better for this task.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-way-to-wash-mouldy-clothes\">Best Way to Wash Mouldy Clothes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Time to show that mould who&#8217;s boss! Here&#8217;s our tried-and-tested method:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Take the <strong>clothes outside<\/strong> and gently brush off loose mould spores<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pre-treat stains<\/strong> with white vinegar or a specialist mould remover<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set your washing machine to the <strong>hottest temperature<\/strong> the fabric can handle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add your <strong>regular detergent<\/strong> plus 1-2 cups of white vinegar<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use an <strong>extra rinse<\/strong> cycle to ensure all mould and cleaning products are gone<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-natural-mould-fighting-solutions\">Natural Mould-Fighting Solutions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Not all heroes wear capes \u2013 some come in the form of household items! Here are our <strong>favourite natural remedies<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>White Vinegar Method:<\/strong>Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray directly on the mould and let it sit for an hour before washing. Vinegar is like kryptonite to mould!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Baking Soda Treatment:<\/strong>Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply to the affected areas and let it work its magic for 15-20 minutes before washing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun Exposure:<\/strong>After washing, hang your clothes in direct sunlight. UV rays are natural mould killers \u2013 it&#8217;s like sending your clothes to a spa day!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-dealing-with-stubborn-mould-stains\">Dealing with Stubborn Mould Stains<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some <strong>mould stains<\/strong> are as stubborn as a teenager refusing to clean their room. Here&#8217;s how to tackle them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For white clothes:Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water. Apply directly to the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes before washing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For coloured clothes:Create <strong>a paste using salt and lemon juice<\/strong>. Gently rub it into the stain and leave for 15-20 minutes before washing normally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If these methods don&#8217;t work, it might be time to call in the professionals \u2013 sometimes we all need a little help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-you-put-moldy-clothes-in-the-washing-machine\">Can You Put Moldy Clothes in the Washing Machine?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, you can! But like making the perfect cup of tea, there&#8217;s a right way to do it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Protect your machine:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Run an empty hot cycle with vinegar after washing moldy clothes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leave the door open between washes to prevent mould growth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clean the rubber seals regularly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-prevent-mould-on-clothes\">How to Prevent Mould on Clothes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Prevention is better than cure<\/strong>, as our mums would say! Here&#8217;s how to keep mould at bay:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Storage smart:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use <strong>moisture-absorbing sachets<\/strong> in wardrobes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep clothes in breathable <strong>cotton bags<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure <strong>proper ventilation<\/strong> in storage areas<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Quick-drying techniques:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Don&#8217;t leave wet clothes in the machine (set a timer if you&#8217;re forgetful!)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hang clothes with space between them<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-when-to-call-the-professionals\">When to Call the Professionals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Sometimes, like a bad hair day, some things are better left to the experts. Consider <strong>professional help <\/strong>when:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The mould damage is extensive<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You&#8217;re dealing with delicate or valuable items<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The mould keeps coming back despite your best efforts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You have health concerns about handling mouldy items<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:47px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, there&#8217;s no shame in asking for help \u2013 even Mary Poppins needed a day off sometimes! Need more cleaning tips? The Wecasa team of well trained house cleaning professionals are always here to help you keep your wardrobe fresh and fabulous.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"reserverShortcode\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/domestic-cleaning\" title=\"Book my cleaning\">Book my cleaning<\/a><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 4<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Mould on clothes is more than just an unpleasant surprise\u2014it can damage fabrics, leave stubborn stains, and even pose health risks. Whether it&#8217;s due to forgotten laundry in the washer or damp storage conditions, knowing how to tackle mould properly can save your favourite outfits and keep your home healthier.&nbsp;In this guide, we\u2019ll break down [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":45875,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[698,733],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-45874","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-housework","category-laundry-hacks"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45874","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=45874"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/45874\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/45875"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=45874"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=45874"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wecasa.co.uk\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=45874"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}