How to Remove Mildew From Polyester

How to Remove Mildew From Polyester
Written By
Mary Ylisela
Mary Ylisela
Published: Dec 30, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Keep this in mind when removing mildew from your polyester fabric, but don't let it stop you from getting rid of the fungus. Using supplies and techniques safe for polyester ensures that you get rid of mildew stains without damaging your clothing.

Things You Will Need

  • Bucket
  • 1/2 cup all-fabric bleach
  • Laundry detergent
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • Drying rack
    Keep a bucket handy in your laundry room for soaking stained garments.
  1. Mix 1/2 cup all-fabric bleach and 1 gallon cool water in a bucket. Place your mildew-stained polyester garment in the bucket of diluted bleach solution. Soak the fabric for 30 minutes to kill the mildew spores and help remove stains.

  2. Wash your polyester clothes in a washing machine, using warm water. Add laundry detergent and 1 cup white vinegar to the wash cycle. Vinegar kills remaining mildew while also removing the stains and mildew odor.

  3. Hang your clothes to dry on a drying rack. If possible, place the drying rack outdoors so the sun can dry your clothing. Sunlight is a natural mildew killer and odor remover.

The Drip Cap

  • Polyester is a long-lasting synthetic fabric that's generally easy to care for.
  • Using supplies and techniques safe for polyester ensures that you get rid of mildew stains without damaging your clothing.
  • Hang your clothes to dry on a drying rack.

Photo Credits

Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images

Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images

bucket image by Aleksandr Ugorenkov from Fotolia.com

Mary Ylisela

Mary Ylisela is a former teacher with a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and mathematics. She has been a writer since 1996, specializing in business, fitness and education. Prior to teaching, Ylisela worked as a certified fitness…

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