Q&A for How to Remove Mildew from Fabric

Mildew is a tough one! Place a towel on a tabletop and place your garment on top. Depending on the material and color, I wouldn't necessarily recommend trying to fix this at home as you might damage your garment. However, if you feel good moving ahead, dip a second towel in a one part vinegar, three parts warm water solution and blot away the mildew in circular motions.

Soak the clothes in white vinegar. (If the clothes cannot be bleached, do not leave them soaking overnight.) Additionally, add vinegar to every wash in your washing machine bleach and softener tanks. Vinegar will take out mildew, odors and will leave your clothes feeling soft.

Depending upon the fabric, use mild soap, with no moisturizing ingredients added, such as aloe, shea butter, coca butter etc. Use a baby toothbrush to gently scrub. If you can, put the fabric in the washing machine with vinegar, and wash on gentle cycle in the hottest water allowed for the fabric. You may have to repeat. If the item cannot be washed - chair or sofa - blot, or rent a rug cleaning machine. Regardless of method or product used, always test a small spot for colorfastness in an area that will not be noticed. Use the hottest water it can take first.

I've used white vinegar on small spots. Test the fabric in the hem or another non-visible area, first.

Using a lint-free cloth, apply a small amount of liquid washing gel, and gently rub it on the mold. It may take several attempts, so be patient.

If possible, move your furniture outside, particularly when we have cooler weather. Fresh air is the best way to remove odors from all leather goods. Alternatively, keep the room aired with open windows and clean the sofa with a good leather cleaner/leather wipes. Repeating this process a number of times will help remove the smell, but it takes some time.

Mix equal parts Clorox and water in a spray bottle and apply to cushions (test a small area first). Let sit about five minutes. Spray with a power washer to rinse, and your mildew will be gone!