{"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":"2026-08-24T10:36:36","modified_gmt":"2026-08-24T10:36:36","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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 id=\"h-what-causes-mould-on-clothes\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Causes Mould on Clothes?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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? Leaving wet clothes in the washing machine can cause mould (guilty as charged!), storing damp items in poorly ventilated closets, or keeping clothes in humid basements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-high-risk-situations-to-avoid\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">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 washing machine to develop a bad odour 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 id=\"h-signs-your-clothes-have-mould\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs Your Clothes Have Mould<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 id=\"h-should-you-throw-out-mouldy-clothing\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should You Throw Out Mouldy Clothing?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 id=\"h-how-to-remove-mould-from-fabric-step-by-step-guide\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Remove Mould from fabric: Step-by-Step Guide<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-getting-ready\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Getting Ready<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Safety first, fashion second! Before we start removing mould from your favorite fabric, let&#8217;s gear up properly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><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 id=\"h-best-way-to-wash-mouldy-clothes\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Way to Wash Mouldy Clothes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 id=\"h-natural-mould-fighting-solutions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Natural Mould-Fighting Solutions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><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 id=\"h-dealing-with-stubborn-mould-stains\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dealing with Stubborn Mould Stains<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 id=\"h-can-you-put-moldy-clothes-in-the-washing-machine\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can You Put Moldy Clothes in the Washing Machine?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 id=\"h-how-to-prevent-mould-on-clothes\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Prevent Mould on Clothes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 id=\"h-when-to-call-the-professionals\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">When to Call the Professionals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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}]}}