How do you remove mold from cloth?

To safely remove mold from cloth, take the item outside, brush off as much mold as possible, soak the cloth in a water and vinegar solution, pretreat mold stains with a borax cleaning solution, and wash as normal. Dry the cloth in direct sunlight, not in the dryer.

1. Prepare for cleaning

   To prevent accidental inhalation or skin irritation, wear an N-95 respirator mask and rubber gloves when dealing with moldy items.

2. Take the cloth outside

   Immediately upon noticing the mold, take the cloth outside. If the fabric is not dry, place it in direct sunlight until dry.

3. Brush off the mold

   Using a stiff brush, attempt to brush off as much mold as possible. Do not brush inside, as this spreads mold spores and encourages new infestations.

4. Prepare a soaking solution

   In a bucket, combine 1 cup of vinegar per 1 quart of water.

5. Soak the cloth

   Allow the fabric to soak in this solution for 10 to 15 minutes.

6. Create a borax pretreatment

   Combine 1 cup of borax with 1 gallon of water. Stir until the borax is completely dissolved.

7. Pretreat the mold stains

   Place the fabric in the borax solution, and while wearing rubber gloves, vigorously scrub the cloth for several minutes. Allow the cloth to soak for an additional five to 10 minutes.

8. Wash as normal

   Wash the cloth according to the fabric requirements.

9. Dry the cloth

   After the wash cycle completes, take the cloth outside to dry via direct sunlight. Do not use your home dryer, as its heat can solidify mold stains.