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Have you ever opened your closet to discover an unpleasant musty odor, or find your favorite clothing items covered in unsightly white mildew spots? While white mildew on fabric itself isn't typically harmful, its odors are unpleasant. Plus, it leads to discoloration and deterioration of fabric. People with mold allergies might even feel symptoms before they notice a mold smell or its presence in the clothing fibers. As soon as you notice white mold exposure, make sure you take steps to prevent its spread and growth. While you're at it, make sure you check all other garments that were in the same area; if moisture in a drawer, closet, or storage tote was an issue, it's likely that other items are also affected.
Mildew and mold are both types of fungi, but they are notably different:
For white fabrics: While chlorine bleach will also resolve stains and smells on moldy clothing, be mindful of using it in concentration. If necessary, dilute a cup of bleach in a bucket of water, and submerge the garment. Then, rinse with clean water and launder as usual. Remember: Never mix white vinegar and bleach together; it forms a toxic gas.
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