In the wake of a mold catastrophe, we’ve pulled
together some of our best tips and tricks to salvage and prevent mold from
leaving a “black cloud” over your head…and wardrobe.
Tools:
Pre-treat:
First and foremost, when you are treating mold - time is of the essence! The longer mold is left untreated, the more
damage it will cause... literally eating holes through your textiles.
• Brush any loose mold off the garment using the Stain
Brush.
• Apply Stain Solution and mix All Purpose Bleach
Alternative, gently scrubbing into the molded areas with the Stain Brush. (Do
not use Bleach Alternative on Delicates/Woolens- instead sprinkle vinegar
directly on to the area).
• Make a bath with vinegar and allow the item to soak,
the longer the better. Change out dirty
water as necessary! Vinegar will also
act as an excellent odor remover.
• Repeat this process until satisfied - remember PATIENCE is a virtue!
• Please note that silk must be treated in 30 minute
increments, rinsing thoroughly and allow to dry.
*When treating a garment/textile with a lining- it may be
best to have the lining removed and replaced.
Water Temperature:
Use normal/hot water settings for cotton, linen and some
synthetics. Use delicate cycle/cold water when washing delicate items such as
silk or wool.
Machine Washing:
• Launder according to item using the appropriate
detergent.
• Delicates and woolens should always be washed in a Mesh
Bag.
Drying/Finishing:
• NEVER put an item that still has staining into the
dryer- this will only “bake” them in.
• Cotton and linen can hang dry in the sun for energy
efficiency and that fresh line experience…or use the dryer.
• Delicates must line dry while woolens/knits should lay
flat. Never put these items in the dryer!
Tips and Tricks:
• Reduce indoor humidity with vents and de-humidifiers.
• Always use the exhaust fan when cooking and cleaning.
• Immediately find and fix the source of a leak or water
problem.
• Always remove mold from any hard surface with detergent
and dry completely.
For more information on mold, please visit www.epa.gov.
