How to Remove Mildew From Bags

Bags -- such as purses, totes, cargo and luggage -- can become dirty, dingy and smelly.

Fortunately, you can use several methods to remove both the mildew and any lingering odors. These methods use natural and inexpensive items commonly found in homes.

1. Unzip the bag and remove all items. Launder clothing in the bag as you normally would except add 1 cup of white vinegar to the spin cycle.

2. Open the bag wide and hold it over a trashcan. Gently shake the bag to remove any dirt or debris from the inside of the bag.

3. Dampen a sponge with undiluted white vinegar. Wash the inside of the bag with the vinegar and let air-dry. White vinegar will naturally deodorize the bag and eliminate the mildew.

4. Fill the bag with crumbled pieces of newspaper and secure the bag closed. Leave the newspapers in the bag for 24 hours. Newspapers with absorb the odors.

5. Pour enough baking soda in the bag to lightly cover the bottom. Close the bag and let sit overnight. Dump the soda out of the bag and wipe clean with a damp cloth.

6. Place several new dryer sheets in the bag and secure closed. The dryer sheets with remove odors and freshen the bag.