How to remove mould and mildew from curtains

It's easy for mildew and mould to end up growing on curtains. Fortunately, even the most unsightly mould can be removed! Read on for useful cleaning tips.

Updated 18 September 2023

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Author By Cleanipedia Team

Reading Time 5 minutes

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Navy blue curtain tied back against a sheer white curtain. Laundry

How to Remove Mould from Net Curtains

Mould can give net curtains a tired, grubby look, as well as a dank smell owing to the presence of potentially harmful spores. The good news is that this very common cleaning dilemma can easily be addressed with a tactical approach and a little perseverance.

As some curtains may be dry clean only, be sure to check the care label prior to trying any of these home washing remedies. Follow any safety directions and application instructions on product labels for the best results. You can find out more about washing net curtains

  1. 1

    Apply a shop-bought stain pre-treatment solution to the affected areas. Alternatively, mix one part bleach with four parts water in a spray bottle, and spritz the affected areas from a distance of 15-20 cm to avoid whitening the fabric.

  2. 2

    Machine wash on a low temperature (less than 40 degrees) to avoid shrinkage – add half a cup of baking soda to the wash to banish unpleasant odours, and use a high quality fabric conditioner.

  3. 3

    Hang the curtains outside if possible, or full length in the shower to let the fabric air (using the dryer may result in shrinkage).

How to Remove Mildew from Curtains

Although mould and mildew are both types of fungi, there are subtle differences between the two, necessitating a change in approach. First, scrub the curtains with a tough bristled brush to remove stubborn mildew spots. Next, machine wash as detailed above – or check out this article on curtain cleaning methods and products.

Preventative steps

As mould and mildew in the home are usually caused by excessive dampness, there are some preventative measures you can take to protect your curtains:

  • Dryness: Use a dehumidifier periodically to remove excess humidity from the house. For a more wallet-friendly solution, try hanging a specially formulated drying agent such as a silica gel near the curtains.

  • Ventilation: Make sure the house is well ventilated: leave windows open from time to time to give fresh air a chance to circulate. This will help stop the build-up of moisture that attracts mould and mildew.

Nothing ruins an invigorating shower like worrying about damp or mould. Keep a good disinfectant bathroom spray around to tackle problems on the spot.

Safety Warning

Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use.

Natural remedies for mold and mildew removal

Natural remedies for mold and mildew removal offer an effective, eco-friendly, and chemical-free approach to restoring your curtains. Here are some natural solutions to combat these pesky issues:

  1. 1

    Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the affected areas and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth, then rinse and air-dry your curtains.

  2. 2

    Baking Soda Paste: Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply it to the moldy or mildewed spots, let it dry, and then scrub it off. Rinse and dry your curtains thoroughly.

  3. 3

    Lemon Juice: Lemon's natural acidity is effective against mold and mildew. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the affected areas, allow it to sit for a while, scrub gently, and rinse.

  4. 4

    Hydrogen Peroxide: Dilute hydrogen peroxide with water (1:1) and apply it to the stains. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then scrub and rinse.

  5. 5

    Tea Tree Oil: Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected areas, leave it on for a few hours, and then clean and rinse your curtains.

These natural remedies are safe and can help you restore your curtains to their clean and mold-free state while minimizing environmental impact.

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