How to Remove Mildew from Vintage Clothing

Mildew is a general term for any type of fungus with a flat growth habit. It thrives in warm, damp environments and often grows on vintage clothing that is stored in an attic. Mildew is easy to remove with common materials and a little effort.

Items Needed:

• Brush


• White vinegar


• Ionizer

1. Take the vintage clothing outside, and brush the mildew from the clothing with a fabric brush. Mildew is often easily visible on the clothing as a pale, powdery coating.


2. Add 2 cups of white vinegar to your washing machine in addition to your normal detergent. White vinegar is a colorless solution that contains at least 5 percent acetic acid. This mild acid is an effective fungicide that will not harm vintage clothing.


3. Place your vintage clothing in your washing machine. Set the machine on a gentle cycle to protect your clothing. Use hot water to remove the mildew from the clothing.


4. Hang the vintage clothing on a clothesline so that it is exposed to direct sunlight. The ultraviolet radiation from the sun will help eradicate any remaining traces of mildew. Allow the clothing to dry completely.


5. Inspect the vintage clothing for mildew. It is often detectable by its musty odor, even when it is not visible. Place the clothing in a room with an ionizer if it still smells musty. Turn the ionizer on, and close the door. The ionizer will attract any remaining mildew particles from the clothing. Allow the ionizer to run until the clothing smells clean.