How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell

Mold and mildew are types of fungi that are commonly found in locations with warm, humid, and moist conditions. Usually, mold is seen in different colors, like black, green, blue, and red; whereas, mildew is mostly gray or white. In some locations, both mold and mildew grow simultaneously.

As mentioned above, areas with less air circulation, enough darkness, and warm and moist conditions, are perfect for the growth of mildew. So, mildew is often found in basements, attics, and crammed closets. Exposure to mildew may cause allergic reactions, respiratory complaints, and skin problems.

Mildew Smell Removal ...

... from clothes: Presence of moisture may trigger mildew growth on clothes kept in the closet. Improperly dried clothes may provide enough moisture for growth of mildew. Another common cause is moisture from the walls. Even a moldy washing machine may contribute to this problem. Such mildew growth can spread to other clothes and causes a musty smell. If you leave it like that, the clothes may gradually get damaged.

First of all, dry clothes with mildew smell in direct sunlight for a day. The next step is to wash them with a laundry detergent. It will be better to use a detergent that is meant for removing scents from clothes. Dry the clothes properly in sunlight. Once done, you can keep them in the closet, along with dryer sheets in between. Dryer sheets are good for preventing mildew growth; but you have to replace them with new ones, at regular intervals.

In order to prevent mold and mildew in washing machines, keep their lid open, when not in use. In case of mildew smell in the washing machine, add a cup of white vinegar into the machine, and wash it down with warm water. You may also replace vinegar with a small amount of laundry detergent and a cup of bleach.

In order to get rid of mildew smell in towels, wash them in hot water mixed with a cup of white vinegar. Once done, wash them with laundry detergent and hot water. Spin-dry the towels, and put them out in the sun.

However, if the closet itself has mildew growth; then, there is no point in washing the clothes kept inside, unless and until, you clean the closet.

... from the closet: Clothes with a musty smell could be an indication of mildew growth in the closet. Such clothes may get damaged, if kept untouched for a long time. In such cases, you have to take out the clothes from the closet, and clean them properly. Meanwhile, you need to get rid of mildew and mildew smell from the closet too.

First of all, try to find out the cause for the mildew growth. It could be a leaky ceiling or a moist cloth. Rectify the underlying cause, before cleaning the closet. Keep the doors of the closet open and run a dehumidifier inside it. Otherwise, switch on the fans. This will reduce the dampness inside the closet.

Wipe the interior surfaces of the closet with a solution made with equal amounts of white vinegar and warm water. Water mixed with a few drops of bleach and some ordinary detergent, will also do. Wipe the surfaces with cold water once again. Keep the closet open for two to three days, so as to ensure that it is completely devoid of moisture and dampness, before placing the cleaned clothes and other things inside.

In case of carpets, floors, and walls; regular cleaning, lots of air circulation, and exposure to light, are good for preventing mildew growth. It is always better to prevent mildew growth to get rid of the musty smell and the health risks associated with it.