Mould on clothing, towels, or fabric furniture is more than a smelly inconvenience. It can stain, weaken fibres, and trigger allergies or asthma. Whether it’s the aftermath of a rainy season, a forgotten load of washing, or just poor ventilation in your laundry area, mould on fabric is surprisingly common in many Australian households.
The good news? You don’t need to rely on harsh bleach or toxic chemicals to get rid of it. With a bit of care and the right product, like OzKleen’s Mould Power, you can remove mould safely and effectively without damaging your fabric or the environment.
Why Fabric Gets Mouldy in Australian Homes
Mould loves moisture, and in many parts of Australia, especially during the humid summer months or wet season, damp conditions are hard to avoid. Whether it’s a towel left too long in the bathroom, clothes forgotten in the washing machine, or cushions stored in a humid garage, fabric provides the perfect surface for mould to grow.
Common causes include:
- High humidity in coastal or tropical regions
- Poor ventilation in bathrooms, laundries, and storage areas
- Flooding or leaks that leave fabrics damp for extended periods
- Infrequently used homes like holiday rentals or Airbnbs, where linens sit untouched
- Tight or sealed storage that traps moisture in blankets, clothes, or cushions
Once mould sets in, it can be tough to remove, especially from absorbent materials like cotton, terry towelling, or upholstery. That’s why early action and the right mould remover for fabric are essential.
How to Identify Mould on Fabric
Not all stains are created equal, and spotting mould early makes removal much easier.
Visual Signs:
- Small black or greenish dots, patches of discolouration, or fuzzy spots on fabric
- Yellowing around the edges of a mould patch
Odour:
- A musty or earthy smell is often the first indicator, especially for stored fabrics or those left in damp environments
Texture Changes:
- Mould can weaken fibres, leaving fabric feeling thinner or more fragile in affected spots
If left untreated, mould can spread and even permanently damage certain materials. It can also release airborne spores, potentially triggering respiratory issues, especially for those with asthma or sensitivities.
Best Way to Remove Mould from Fabric Safely
The safest way to clean mould off fabric is to act quickly and use a fabric-safe, non-toxic mould remover like OzKleen Mould Power. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Take it outside
Before cleaning, bring the mouldy item outdoors to avoid spreading spores in your home.
Step 2: Brush off dry mould (optional)
Use a soft brush to gently remove surface mould, wear a mask if you’re sensitive to airborne particles.
Step 3: Apply OzKleen Mould Power
Spray the affected areas generously. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to penetrate deep into the fibres. OzKleen Mould Power is chlorine-free, fume-free, and biodegradable, making it safe for both you and your fabrics.
Step 4: Wash the fabric
Wash the item as per the care label, ideally in hot water (unless the fabric is delicate). You can add vinegar or baking soda for extra odour control.
Step 5: Dry in direct sunlight
Whenever possible, air-dry the item in the sun. UV rays help to naturally kill any lingering mould spores and eliminate odour.
Tips to Remove Mildew from Towels, Sheets, and Bedding
Towels and bed linens are particularly vulnerable to mildew because they’re often stored while still slightly damp or left in poorly ventilated areas. Thick fabrics like terry towelling or flannelette sheets can also trap moisture deep in the fibres, making them harder to dry and clean.
Here’s a gentle yet effective method to treat them:
Soak and Pre-Treat: Fill a tub or bucket with warm water and add a splash of white vinegar or bicarbonate of soda. Soak the affected items for 30 minutes to help lift the mildew and neutralise odours. Then, spray the worst areas with OzKleen Mould Power and let the product sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
Wash Thoroughly: Machine wash the fabrics using a quality detergent. If the care label allows, select a warm or hot cycle for best results. For a deeper clean, consider adding more vinegar to the rinse cycle.
Dry Properly: Line-drying in direct sunlight is ideal. Sun exposure naturally kills lingering mould spores and helps freshen fabrics without chemical perfumes. If using a dryer, ensure the items are completely dry before storing.
Asthma-Friendly Tip: This process avoids chlorine, bleach, or overpowering synthetic fragrances, making it suitable for households with asthma or sensitivities.
Why Choose a Non-Toxic Mould Remover?
Not all mould sprays are created equal. While bleach-based products might appear to work on the surface, they often don’t penetrate porous materials like fabric, meaning the mould may return. More importantly, bleach can ruin delicate fibres and release strong fumes that irritate your lungs and eyes.
Our customers love Mould Power because of its key features, such as:
- No bleach, no chlorine — making it safe to use on coloured fabrics
- Non-toxic and biodegradable — better for the environment
- Fume-free and asthma-friendly — ideal for use in households with kids, pets, or respiratory conditions
- Gentle but powerful — designed to break down mould and mildew without damaging the fabric
It’s a solution that works across your home, from cushions and curtains to clothing and upholstery, all without the harsh smell or risk of bleach burns.
Prevention Tips for Future Mould Growth
Once you’ve removed the mould, preventing it from coming back is the next step. Fabric mould is avoidable with a few consistent habits, especially in high-humidity environments.
Here are some practical ways to keep mould away:
- Avoid leaving damp fabrics lying around. Hang towels to dry immediately and remove clothes from the washing machine as soon as the cycle ends.
- Let air flow. Keep windows open when weather allows, use ceiling fans, and install an exhaust fan in your laundry or bathroom if possible.
- Dehumidify high-risk rooms. If you live in a humid area, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce excess moisture in the air.
- Clean your storage areas. Wipe out wardrobes or linen cupboards with an anti-mould solution regularly, especially before storing seasonal items.
- Store fabrics properly. Use breathable containers, such as fabric bags or lidded baskets, rather than airtight plastic tubs, which can trap moisture.
- Use OzKleen Mould Power preventatively. Spraying problem-prone areas every few weeks can help keep spores from taking hold again.
With these habits in place, you can keep your fabrics cleaner, fresher, and safer for the long run—no harsh chemicals required.
Shop Mould Power
Dealing with mould on fabric can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach and products, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re trying to remove black mould from clothes, rescue musty towels, or safely clean fabric after flooding or damp storage, a gentle, fabric-safe mould remover like OzKleen Mould Power offers a powerful alternative to harsh bleach-based sprays.
Not only is it non-toxic, chlorine-free, and fume-free, but it’s also biodegradable and asthma-friendly, making it a smart choice for homes that care about health and the environment.
By treating mould early, following safe cleaning methods, and keeping up with simple prevention habits, you can protect your fabrics and enjoy a cleaner, fresher home.
Looking for the best mould remover for fabric? Try OzKleen Mould Power today and see the difference for yourself.
