Mildew Stains

[rp2813]

I'm looking for suggestions for black mildew stain removal on a pair of shorts.  I guess they sat in a damp pile somewhere.  It's not bad, but it's noticeable.

 

I've never had any success trying to remove mildew stains but, it's a nice pair of shorts so I thought I'd ask here.

 

Thanks for any advice.

 

Ralph

 

[launderess]

If fresh and not to deep

Brush off the excess (outdoor and using something you want to throw away or can disinfect afterwards to get rid of spores), then ...

First try soaking garment in two quarts of water with 2 cups of borax. Then launder as usual using hottest water recommended for fabric. If chlorine bleach is allowed use it as a wash booster, if not try an oxygen based bleach in wash treatment.

Or, soak affected garment in bucket of cool water to which one cup of white vinegar has been added. Leave for several hours, then launder using hottest water and a good TOL detergent.

You can also try blotting stained area (after brushing off) with a sponge or cloth soaked in hydrogen peroxide. The stuff you get in brown bottles from chemists is fine. Check for colorfastness before applying because peroxide can bleach fabrics.

If fabric is white, and or color safe you can also try dabbing with a diluted chlorine bleach and water solution, wait a moment, then launder as usual.

 

[toploader55]

I have used Lemon Juice and Salt with very good results. Moisten the area with lemon juice, sprinkle some table salt on the area, roll up in a ball and leave it for about 5-8 hours. Wash and then drying the fabric in the sun.

Worked on a bath towel and at one time on some Commercial Table Linens

 

[rp2813]

Thanks to both of you.  I'll pass this info along to the owner of the shorts.