Mould isn’t just a bathroom problem. It can grow on fabrics too — especially when there’s dampness, poor ventilation, or items are stored before they’re fully dry. It shows up on clothes, cushions, upholstery, curtains, and even outdoor covers if they’re left in warm, humid conditions.
Knowing how to remove mould from fabric matters for two reasons: mould can permanently stain and weaken fibres, and the spores can aggravate allergies and asthma in susceptible people.
This guide walks you through safe, effective mould removal methods (including natural options), step-by-step cleaning instructions, and the best ways to prevent mould returning — with practical notes for outdoor fabrics and bean bag covers.
Mildew vs mould: what’s the difference?
People often use “mildew” and “mould” interchangeably. In everyday terms:
- Mildew usually refers to early-stage fungal growth that looks powdery or lightly discoloured and tends to sit more on the surface.
- Mould is often darker, patchier, sometimes fuzzy, and more likely to penetrate fibres if left untreated.
The cleaning approach is similar: remove spores, kill remaining growth, then wash thoroughly. The key difference is that heavier mould growth often needs stronger treatment and more attention to safety.
Why mould grows on fabric
Mould needs three things: moisture, oxygen and something to feed on. Most homes have oxygen and organic residue (skin oils, food particles, dust). Add damp conditions and mould spores can colonise fabric surprisingly quickly.
Common triggers include:
- Wet clothes left in a laundry basket or washing machine
- High humidity (common in coastal and subtropical parts of Australia)
- Poor airflow in wardrobes, storage rooms or garages
- Outdoor cushions or covers stored while damp
- Condensation around windows or in poorly ventilated rooms
Even synthetics can be affected. Mould doesn’t “eat” polyester itself the way it can with some natural fibres, but it can feed on the grime and residue on the surface. If you want a deeper explanation of synthetics and safety, see is polyester fabric safe.
Safety first: protect yourself before you start
When you disturb mould, spores can become airborne. Take a few basic precautions to reduce exposure:
- Work outdoors if possible, or in a well-ventilated area with windows open
- Wear rubber gloves and a mask (especially if you’re sensitive to allergens)
- Avoid shaking mouldy items indoors
- Keep kids and pets away while you’re cleaning
If the mould is extensive (large areas, heavy odour throughout the home, or recurring outbreaks), it may indicate a broader moisture problem that needs addressing, not just spot cleaning.
What you’ll need for mould removal
You don’t need every product on this list. Choose based on the fabric type and how stubborn the mould is:
- Mild detergent (liquid is often more effective for pre-treatment)
- Distilled white vinegar (great for odour and mild mould)
- Oxygen bleach (a gentler alternative to chlorine bleach for many colours)
- Chlorine bleach (for whites and colourfast outdoor fabrics only)
- Hydrogen peroxide (useful on some stains; spot test first)
- Borax (a laundry booster with mould-fighting properties)
- Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
- Spray bottle
Best products for removing mould from fabrics
Different fabrics and dye types respond differently. These options are commonly used, but always spot test first on a hidden seam.
Distilled white vinegar
Vinegar is popular for mild-to-moderate mould because it’s accessible, generally fabric-friendly, and helps neutralise musty odours. It can be used as a spray treatment or as a pre-soak before washing.
Oxygen bleach (colour-safe bleach)
Oxygen bleach (often sold as “colour-safe” bleach) can help lift stains and kill mould on many coloured fabrics. It’s typically gentler than chlorine bleach, but it still needs a spot test and label check.
Chlorine bleach (use with care)
Chlorine bleach is highly effective at killing mould but can strip colour and weaken certain fabrics if misused. Reserve it for:
- white cotton and linens, or
- clearly colourfast items where the care label permits bleaching
Never mix bleach with vinegar or ammonia.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners can be effective for stains and disinfection, and may be less colour-stripping than chlorine bleach. Concentrations vary, so follow product directions and spot test.
Borax
Borax is a laundry booster that can improve cleaning performance and help inhibit mould. Keep it out of reach of children and avoid inhaling powder.
Tea tree oil (natural option)
Some people prefer tea tree oil for mild outbreaks. It can leave a strong scent, and it’s not ideal for every household (especially around pets), so use carefully and avoid overapplication.
Why we recommend Exit Mould for outdoor bean bags
Outdoor items face a specific risk: warmth + moisture + time. Even fabrics designed for outdoor use can develop surface mould if they’re stored damp, left in humid corners, or covered while wet.
If you’re cleaning outdoor covers (including outdoor bean bag covers), a dedicated mould killer like Exit Mould or Selleys Rapid Mould Killer can be effective when used exactly as directed. Always rinse thoroughly and allow the item to dry completely before use or storage.
If your mould issue involves outdoor seating, it’s also worth checking how and where it’s stored. For example, items from the outdoor bean bags range are designed for outside conditions, but no fabric performs well long-term if it’s repeatedly packed away damp.
Step-by-step: how to remove mould from fabric
The exact method depends on the fabric type and whether the item is machine washable. The process below covers most clothing and removable covers.
Step 1: Take the item outside and brush off loose mould
Do this outdoors if you can. Use a soft brush to remove surface mould and spores. Avoid shaking the fabric, which can spread spores into the air.
Step 2: Check the care label
Before applying any product, confirm what the fabric can tolerate:
- Maximum wash temperature
- Whether bleach is permitted
- Whether the item is dry clean only
Step 3: Pre-treat the mould
Choose one of the options below:
- Vinegar spray: Spray vinegar directly onto the affected area and let it sit 10–15 minutes.
- Oxygen bleach soak: Soak in warm water with oxygen bleach for the time recommended on the product label.
- Bleach soak (whites/colourfast only): Use a diluted bleach solution per label instructions and soak briefly.
For stubborn patches, gently work the solution into the fibres with a soft brush. Don’t scrub aggressively — you can fray fibres and spread staining.
Step 4: Wash thoroughly
Wash using the warmest temperature the care label allows. Use a good-quality detergent, and consider adding:
- 1 cup vinegar to the rinse (odour support), or
- oxygen bleach to the wash (stain support), if suitable for the fabric.
Step 5: Dry completely before storing
Mould returns when moisture remains. Air-dry items thoroughly. Sunlight can help dry and deodorise, but be cautious with coloured fabrics in strong sun if fading is a concern.
Important: If the stain remains after washing, don’t heat-dry it. Repeat treatment and wash again. Heat can set staining on some fabrics.
How to remove mould from upholstery and non-removable fabric
For upholstery or cushions that can’t go in the washing machine:
- Vacuum with a HEPA filter if available (reduces airborne spores)
- Lightly mist vinegar or an appropriate fabric-safe mould treatment
- Gently blot (don’t soak the cushion)
- Dry fast with airflow: fans + open windows
If moisture is trapped inside foam, mould can persist. In that case, professional cleaning may be the safest option.
Can detergent alone remove mould from clothes?
Sometimes, yes — especially if the mould is minimal and caught early. But detergent alone may not fully kill spores or remove musty odours, particularly in heavier outbreaks. In practice, a two-step approach works best:
- Pre-treat with a mould-killing option (vinegar, oxygen bleach, etc.)
- Wash thoroughly with detergent
Does dry cleaning remove mould?
For dry-clean-only items, don’t apply water-based treatments at home. Brush off loose mould outdoors, place the garment in a sealed bag, and take it to a reputable dry cleaner. Ask if they can treat mould and associated odours safely for that fabric type.
How to get mildew smell out of clothes
The stain might be gone, but the musty smell can linger. Try:
- Rewashing with vinegar in the rinse cycle
- Soaking in oxygen bleach (if suitable)
- Drying thoroughly with airflow and sunlight (if colour-safe)
Avoid masking odour with heavy fragrance. If moisture remains, mould can return and the smell will reappear.
When mould becomes a health concern
Mould spores are common in the environment, but higher exposure can trigger symptoms for sensitive individuals. If you experience persistent respiratory symptoms, seek medical advice. For general information on symptoms associated with mould exposure, see WebMD.
How to prevent mould growth on fabrics
Prevention comes down to one principle: remove moisture fast.
- Don’t leave wet clothes sitting in the washing machine or basket
- Dry items fully before storing (especially in wardrobes and storage tubs)
- Store fabrics in a cool, dry, ventilated area
- Improve airflow: open doors, use fans, or consider a dehumidifier in high-humidity areas
- For outdoor cushions/covers, avoid covering or stacking them while damp
- Clean spills promptly and dry the area completely
If you’re dealing with mould on outdoor items, also consider sun exposure and drying habits. Outdoor fabrics can handle tough conditions, but they still need to dry fully between uses. If you want to learn more about mould in general and why it keeps returning, see what is mould.
Conclusion
Removing mould from fabric is straightforward once you follow the right sequence: brush off spores safely, pre-treat with a mould-killing option, wash thoroughly, and dry completely. For ongoing problems, prevention matters more than any single cleaner — mould thrives where moisture lingers.
If you make “dry fast and store dry” a habit, you’ll protect your clothes, upholstery and outdoor covers from staining, odours and repeat outbreaks.
