Red Mould on Your Clothes? Here’s How to Remove It

Finding red mould on your clothes can be alarming. Those unsightly red spots not only make your clothes look stained and damaged but can also carry unpleasant odours and even pose health risks. If you've noticed red mould on clothes or red mildew on clothes, it's essential to tackle the problem quickly and correctly.

But why does red mould appear on clothes, and more importantly, how can you remove it without causing damage? If you're dealing with red mould spots on clothes or wondering how to prevent it from returning, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Red mould, sometimes mistaken for rust stains, is caused by a type of fungus or bacteria that thrives in damp, humid environments. When clothes are left wet for too long or stored in a poorly ventilated area, mould and mildew can begin to grow.

Common Causes of Red Mould on Clothes:

• High Humidity: When moisture gets trapped in the fabric, it creates the perfect breeding ground for mould.
• Improper Drying: Clothes that aren't dried completely can develop mould and mildew over time.
• Dirty Washing Machine: A dirty washing machine can harbour bacteria and mould, transferring it to your clothes during the wash.
• Long-term Storage: Storing clothes in damp basements or closed wardrobes without airflow encourages mould growth.

The good news is that red mildew on clothes can often be removed with the right techniques—if you act quickly.

Removing red mould on clothes requires a careful balance of cleaning power and fabric protection. Harsh chemicals can damage delicate fabrics, so it's important to use methods that are both effective and gentle.

1. Vinegar and Baking Soda Solution

Vinegar and baking soda create a natural cleaning solution that helps break down mould spores and lift stains from fabric.

How to Use:

1. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the solution directly on the affected areas.
3. Sprinkle baking soda over the sprayed area to create a mild reaction.
4. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
5. Scrub gently with a soft brush or cloth.
6. Rinse thoroughly with cold water and air dry.

This method works well on most fabrics and helps to neutralise the odour left by red mildew on clothes.

2. Lemon Juice and Salt Scrub

Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that can lighten red mould spots on clothes without damaging the fabric.

How to Use:

1. Mix equal parts of lemon juice and salt to create a paste.
2. Apply the paste to the red spots.
3. Let it sit in direct sunlight for 15–20 minutes.
4. Scrub gently with a soft brush or cloth.
5. Rinse with cold water and air dry.

The acidity of lemon juice helps to break down mould spores, while the salt acts as a mild abrasive to lift stains.

3. Tea Tree Oil Spray

Tea tree oil has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it an effective solution for red mildew on clothes.

How to Use:

1. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with water in a spray bottle.
2. Lightly spray the affected area.
3. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
4. Rinse with cold water and wash as usual.

Tea tree oil not only removes mould but also helps prevent it from coming back.

4. Oxygen Bleach Soak (For Stubborn Stains)

Oxygen bleach is gentler than chlorine bleach and works well on both white and coloured fabrics.

How to Use:

1. Dissolve oxygen bleach in a bucket of warm water.
2. Soak the stained clothes for 1–2 hours.
3. Rinse thoroughly and wash as usual.

Oxygen bleach helps to lift stubborn red spots without damaging the fabric.

Once you've successfully removed red mould on clothes, the next step is to prevent it from returning. Here's how:

1. Wash Clothes Promptly: Don't let wet clothes sit in the washing machine or laundry basket for too long.
2. Dry Clothes Completely: Always air dry or tumble dry clothes thoroughly before storing them.
3. Store Clothes in a Dry Place: Use breathable cotton bags instead of plastic covers for storage.
4. Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly: Run a hot cycle with white vinegar or baking soda once a month to prevent mould buildup.
5. Control Humidity Levels: Use a dehumidifier in damp areas or closets to keep moisture levels low.

By following these simple steps, you can protect your clothes from future mould growth.

Ignoring red mildew on clothes can lead to more than just stained fabrics. Mould and mildew release spores into the air, which can trigger:

1. Allergic reactions – Including coughing, sneezing, and skin irritation.
2. Respiratory issues – Mould spores can worsen asthma and other lung conditions.
3. Fabric damage – Long-term mould exposure can weaken and break down natural fibres.

If you spot red spots on clothes mildew, it's important to act quickly to avoid these potential problems.

Dealing with red mould on clothes doesn't have to be stressful. By using natural remedies like vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda—or more powerful solutions like hydrogen peroxide and oxygen bleach—you can restore your clothes to their original condition.

If you follow the right washing and storage techniques, you can prevent red mildew on clothes from returning, keeping your wardrobe fresh and mould-free. With the right care, you can say goodbye to red mould spots on clothes for good!

Source:

https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/household-hints-tips/cleaning-organizing/how-to-clean-mold-off-clothing.htm