How to remove mould from clothing and stop it growing in wardrobes and drawers
Mould loves humid climates and tightly packed wardrobes. (Supplied)
Ever plan to wear your favourite jacket, only to pull it out of the wardrobe to discover it's got a weird smell and is covered in mould?
"People living in warm, humid climates or coastal regions are often impacted heavily [by mouldy clothing] because their indoor humidity remains elevated for long periods," explains Nisa Salim, associate professor and director of Swinburne-CSIRO National Testlab for Composite Additive Manufacturing.
"Often wardrobes positioned against cold external walls can also accumulate condensation."
Another risk factor is occasional use and overcrowding, says Dr Salim. For example, drawers filled with seasonal clothing might remain tightly closed for several months, restricting airflow and allowing moisture to build up.
So how do you keep mould from growing on your favourite fits, and what can you do to remove it when it's too late for prevention?
What causes mould to grow on our clothes?
Mould develops when microscopic fungal "seeds" find the perfect combination of moisture, warmth and suitable nutrients, says Dr Salim.
Wardrobes and drawers often provide all three.
"Clothing that are discarded slightly damp or that contain traces of sweat, body oils or food residues, supply organic material supply and environment that mould can digest and nurture," Dr Salim says.
"Poor air circulation inside wardrobe drawers, or tightly packed wardrobes, traps humidity."
Ash Boss-Handley, a certified occupational hygienist with the Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists, says clothing provides a suitable surface because many fabrics contain organic materials such as cotton, wool, silk or cellulose fibres, which mould can use as a nutrient source.
"If humidity levels are elevated or damp clothing is stored inside, moisture can accumulate and allow mould to grow."
That's when you get that "familiar musty smell" or visible patches of mould, says Dr Salim.
What kinds of mould grows on clothes and is it dangerous for our health?
Seasonal clothing often cops it the most. (Supplied)
Several common household moulds flourish in wardrobes, such as species of aspergillus and penicillium, says Dr Salim.
"For clothing, the risk is mostly structural, meaning mould produces enzymes that digest natural fibres, gradually weakening fabrics and leaving stains or odours."
For us, however, the risk varies.
"Most species mainly cause irritation, allergies or respiratory symptoms in some individuals," Dr Salim says.
"However, people with asthma, weak immune systems or even prolonged exposure to heavy mould growth may experience more significant health effects."
Ms Boss-Handley says regardless of the species of mould taking over your threads, visible mould growth indoors often indicates excess moisture and should be addressed.
How to remove mould from your clothes
Dr Salim suggests taking the affected garments outdoors to brush off loose fungi particles and avoid spreading them indoors.
She says washing is usually effective, using warm water with an appropriate detergent for the fabric type, as detergents help detach fungal cells and residues.
"For durable fabrics, oxygen-based bleach can help remove stains and kill remaining fungi."
Natural fibres such as wool or silk require gentler cleaning, Dr Salim says, but should still be thoroughly washed and dried.
Ms Boss-Handley says removal success will depend on the type of material — and you may have to throw out the item.
"A useful way to think about it is this: cleaning mould from a hard surface such as plastic is like wiping mud off a dinner plate.
"Cleaning mould from a porous textile is more like trying to remove ink from a sponge — you can remove it from the surface, but the material deeper in the structure may remain."
She says once mould becomes visible on porous materials such as fabrics, fungal root structures can penetrate the pore spaces of the material.
"It is not always possible to completely remove mould contamination.
"Mould remediation guidance often recommends disposing of heavily mould-impacted porous materials, particularly if staining, odour or repeated contamination persists."
How to stop mould growing in the first place
To prevent recurrence, the wardrobe or drawer space itself should also be cleaned.
Dr Salim recommends emptying the wardrobe and vacuuming surfaces to remove dust and fungi.
"Hard surfaces can then be wiped with a mild household disinfectant, diluted vinegar solution, or alcohol-based cleaner, all of which prevent fungal growth."
For porous materials however, such as unfinished timber or particle board, Ms Boss-Handley says mould may penetrate into the material.
"In these cases, complete removal may be difficult and replacement of the affected material may sometimes be necessary."
Dr Salim says you can try using a slightly damp cloth followed by thorough drying, but it may not be effective.
It's important to minimise exposure when cleaning mould.
Ms Boss-Handley recommends wearing a P2 respirator, disposable gloves and eye protection to help reduce exposure to spores during cleaning.
If there is extensive mould growth or contamination, engage a professional mould remediation specialist.
Other prevention strategies
Maintaining cleanliness and controlling moisture is key to preventing mould growth, our experts say.
- Ensure clothes are completely dry before storing them.
- Improve airflow by periodically opening wardrobe doors and encouraging cross-flow ventilation in the home.
- For humid environments, moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers can help keep humidity levels low.
- Breathable garment bags made from cotton are preferable to airtight plastic.
- Avoid overcrowding wardrobes, which can restrict air circulation.
- Address sources of moisture such as leaks or condensation.
"If in doubt, contact an expert such as an occupational hygienist or indoor environmental professional (IEP) to assess the environment and provide tailored advice," Ms Boss-Handley says.