How to Get Rid of Mildew on Any Surface

Mildew removal methods differ based on the type of surface you’re cleaning. Most require a little elbow grease and time. Depending on how widespread the growth is, you may need several cleaning cycles to eliminate mildew and its musty smell.

1. On Wood Furnishings

   Dissolve 2 tablespoons of washing soda (not baking soda) in 16 ounces of warm water. Use a sponge or spray bottle to apply this to the affected area, and scrub with a soft brush. Rinse the area with fresh water and pat it dry with a cloth.
   
   If the mildew has worked beneath the varnish or paint, you’ll first need to use 150-grit sandpaper to remove the finish before applying the washing soda and water mixture.

2. On Tile and Grout

   Spray undiluted 3% hydrogen peroxide directly onto the surface. Let this sit for 10 minutes to kill the mildew spores. Then scrub with a brush or sponge and rinse thoroughly with warm water. For stubborn mildew stains, use a homemade grout cleaner.

3. On Fabric and Clothing
   

   For washable fabrics, wet the mildewed area with water then add a few drops of liquid dish detergent and a sprinkle of baking soda or salt. Rub the fabric together in your hand to work this mixture into the cloth, then launder it immediately at the hottest temperature allowed on the care label. Add 1/2 cup chlorine bleach to the wash for white or light fabrics, and 1/2 cup non-chlorine, oxygenated bleach for colors.
   
   For nonwashable fabrics, take the piece outside and brush away as much mildew as possible. Then hang the item outside in bright sunlight for an afternoon so the sun’s UV rays can eliminate the remaining spores and mildew smell.

4. On Shower Curtains

   
   To get mildew off of your shower curtain in the washer, put it in the washer with a couple of hand towels to act as scrubbers. Add ½ cup of baking soda with your laundry detergent and run the washer on the gentle cycle. Stop the machine before it reaches the spin cycle and remove your shower curtain. Wrap it in a dry towel and carry it back to your bathroom so it can drip dry on your shower curtain rod.
   
   If the stain is stubborn or you also find mold growth on your shower curtain, remove it from the rod and fold it around the area so the mold spores don’t spread as you carry it outside. Spread out the shower curtain and spray the stain with hydrogen peroxide. After five minutes, sprinkle it with baking soda and use a scrub brush to rub away the mildew. Rinse both sides with a hose and let it drip dry.

5. On Carpet

   To remove mildew stains on carpeting, sprinkle them with baking soda then spray equal parts water and white vinegar. The fizzing action will lift the stain. Wait for the fizzing to stop then dab the area with a clean, dry cloth and aim a fan at it to promote drying. Vacuum once the area is completely dry.
   
   To get rid of mildew odors in your carpet or area rugs, use a homemade carpet deodorizer to absorb moisture then vacuum them thoroughly.

6. On Concrete, Cement, or Brick

   First, sweep the area to remove debris then apply a solution of 1/4 cup oxygenated bleach mixed into 1 gallon of hot water. Let this sit in place for 15-30 minutes, then scrub the area with a stiff brush before rinsing.

7. On Upholstery and Furniture

   Use a vacuum to remove as much mildew as possible. Next, combine equal parts rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol and water. Lightly sponge the mildewed upholstery with this mixture and let it air dry. If in doubt about colorfastness, spot test first.

8. On Leather

   Take the item outside if possible and wipe away mildew powder with a disposable paper towel. Next, very lightly wipe the area with warm water and a small amount of saddle soap or mild detergent. Let the leather air dry. To remove mildew stains on leather, wipe it with rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol, and once it’s dry use a leather conditioner to restore suppleness.

9. On Paper and Books

   
   Use a vacuum cleaner with a dust brush attachment or a soft-bristled brush to dislodge the mildew. Then wipe the paper with a cotton pad or towel lightly dampened in hydrogen peroxide to remove mildew stains. To clean books with mildew, you’ll need to spread open the pages to treat two at a time.

10. On Plastic

    Remove mildew from plastic by soaking it for 5 minutes in a solution of 10 parts water and 1 part bleach, then washing it with soap and water. For stubborn mildew stains that remain after washing, apply a little lemon juice and set the item in a sunny spot for an hour before washing. (Do not combine lemon juice and bleach.)

11. On Plants

    Water the plant well, then spray the mildewed leaves with a solution of 1 tablespoon baking soda, a half teaspoon liquid soap, and 1 gallon of water. Be sure to apply the mixture to both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves. Reapply as needed.