How Do I Get Mold Stains Out of Clothes? 3 Simple Ways to Fix Your Favorite Outfits

Mold stains can really mess up your clothes, especially when they’ve been sitting in a damp space for too long. If you’ve got a piece of clothing that’s been attacked by mold, don’t stress—it’s not the end of the world. There are a few easy ways to get rid of those stains. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Vinegar and Milk

You probably already have these in your kitchen. They can do wonders when it comes to getting rid of mold. Vinegar is great at killing bacteria, while the proteins in milk help break down the mold.

What to do:

Mix equal parts vinegar and milk in some water.
Soak the affected clothes in the solution for 30 minutes.
Rinse them out with clean water and let them dry.

It’s simple, and your clothes will be mold-free and smelling fresh again.

2. Soap and Water

This is an old-school trick that works surprisingly well. Soap is alkaline, and mold doesn’t thrive in an alkaline environment.

What to do:

Grate a bar of soap into warm water to make a strong soapy solution.
Soak the clothes in it for about 30 minutes.
Dry them outside in the sun. If you still see some stains, just repeat the process.

This method is great for denim or thick fabrics.

3. Bleach or Hydrogen Peroxide

If the mold is stubborn, bleach or hydrogen peroxide can do the trick. They’re powerful, but be careful—these can bleach your clothes, so they’re best for white items.

What to do:

Mix the bleach with water or use hydrogen peroxide straight from the bottle.
Dab it directly onto the mold stains.
Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Dry the clothes in the sun.

Be cautious with this method. It’s quick and effective, but stick to whites to avoid discoloration.

4. Prevent Mold in the Future

Once you’ve removed the mold, you’ll want to make sure it doesn’t come back. Keep your clothes in a dry, well-ventilated space to prevent mold from taking hold again.

Use moisture-absorbing packets or a dehumidifier in your closet.
Regularly check your clothes for any signs of mold, especially if you live in a humid area.