How to remove mildew/mold from fabric

Mac27468680
by Mac27468680
I have several Anna Lee Christmas figures made from felt fabric. Some have mold/mildew on the faces. Is there a safe way to remove the stain?

  5 answers
  • Amanda Amanda on Dec 21, 2017

    Hello. I have had mold and mildew on throw pillows, pants, and jacket that were on a boat. They were all colored and being desperate I filled a bid tub with water and mix in a little bleach. I let it all soak for hours and it actually got rid of it without ruining the color. You can try it but I would be very careful or test it on something else first.

  • Ken Ken on Dec 21, 2017

    I'd guess that your ornaments are not washable, is that correct? Bleach is the acceptable standard for eradicating mold, as Amanda said, but expect that these would be too fragile for bleach.


    Mold puts down "roots" of sort and porous fabric will allow the mold in so it's not just on the surface. I'd try a little rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab, but would be surprised if it works and does not disturb any of the dyes in the fabric.


    This is a head scratcher and if I had them to repair I would tell you that you should consider these ruined. I will try anything I can think of applied with a cotton swab and we'll hope for the best. If you have good results with anything, please come back and let us know what worked.

  • Molly Anmar Molly Anmar on Dec 21, 2017

    For cloth sculptures, try dabbing on a little bit of hydrogen peroxide on those mildew spots.

  • Sharon Sharon on Dec 21, 2017

    I would use a fine spray of white vinegar and water, and a soft piece of cotton.

  • There was a kit issued by Annalee that included Ivory soap. Perhaps try "Googling" a little bit before trying anything, don't want to ruin those cute dolls.

    http://www.suecoffee.com/Annalee-Doll-Society-Doll-Cleaning-Kit-CleanKit.html