How to Remove Mould Stains from Coloured Fabric – Safe & Effective Solutions

Why Mould on Coloured Fabric Is a Problem

Mould on coloured clothing, curtains, or upholstery is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a potential health hazard and a risk to your belongings. Left untreated, mould can cause permanent stains, foul odours, and even damage the fabric itself.

If your clothes or household fabrics are affected by mould due to poor housing conditions, such as leaks or damp, you may be entitled to claim compensation. Explore our damp and mould claims page if you’re a tenant suffering due to the landlord’s negligence.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to safely remove mould stains from coloured fabric while protecting the colours and preserving the fabric’s condition.

What Causes Mould Growth on Fabric?

Mould thrives in damp, warm, and poorly ventilated environments. Coloured fabrics often fall victim to mould when:

• Wet clothes are left in laundry baskets or washing machines

• Curtains are exposed to condensation or damp walls

• Furniture is placed against cold or wet walls

• Leaks in the ceilings or windows allow moisture in

• Poor ventilation in humid rooms (e.g., bathrooms)

If you keep experiencing mould on fabric, it’s likely due to a larger damp problem in your home, not just isolated accidents.

Is It Safe to Remove Mould from Coloured Fabric?

Yes, it’s safe—but not all methods work for coloured fabric. You need to use non-bleach mould removal methods to avoid fading or discolouration. Many common cleaners like bleach can permanently alter coloured fabrics, so it’s important to be careful and use fabric-safe treatments.

How to Remove Mould Stains from Coloured Fabric – Step-by-Step

Follow these steps carefully to remove mould while keeping the colours intact:

Step 1: Take the Fabric Outdoors

Before you begin cleaning:

• Take the affected item outside if possible

• Shake or brush off loose mould spores gently

• Wear a mask and gloves to avoid breathing in spores

Tip: Don’t shake the item indoors, as it spreads mould spores into the air.

Step 2: Soak in Vinegar Solution

White vinegar is a natural, fabric-safe mould killer.

• Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 3 cups of cold water

• Soak the mouldy fabric for at least 60 minutes

• For heavier mould, increase soaking time to 2–3 hours

This breaks down mould and neutralises odours without affecting the colour.

Step 3: Apply Baking Soda Paste (For Stubborn Stains)

Make a gentle scrub paste:

• Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water

• Apply directly to stained areas

• Let it sit for 15–20 minutes

• Gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth

Baking soda helps lift stains without bleaching the fabric.

Step 4: Wash with Detergent in Hot Water (If Safe)

Now, wash the fabric using:

• Hot water (as hot as the care label allows)

• Biological detergent (contains enzymes to break down mould)

• Optional: Add ½ cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle

Avoid tumble drying until the stain is fully removed—heat can set mould stains permanently.

Step 5: Dry in Sunlight (If Possible)

Sunlight is a natural antifungal. Drying outside helps:

• Kill the remaining mould spores

• Eliminate lingering odours

• Naturally brighten fabric

If drying outdoors isn’t an option, use a drying rack near a window with good airflow.

Alternative Fabric-Safe Mould Removers

You can also try these:

• Hydrogen peroxide (3%) – test on a hidden area first

• Tea tree oil – a few drops in water make a natural mould cleaner

• Lemon juice + salt paste – effective for mild stains, but may lighten some fabrics slightly

Always test on a small, hidden patch first.

What If the Mould Stain Won’t Come Out?

Some mould stains can be permanent, especially if they’ve been left untreated for weeks. If stains remain after multiple attempts:

• Consider professional cleaning services

• Redye faded garments if they’re worth saving

• For large furniture or upholstery, consult a mould remediation expert

How to Prevent Mould on Fabric in the Future

Prevention is easier than removal. Here’s how:

• Dry clothes immediately after washing

• Never store damp laundry in wardrobes or drawers

• Use a dehumidifier in humid rooms

• Keep wardrobes and drawers slightly open for air circulation

• Regularly clean behind furniture placed against external walls

• Install ventilation or extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens

If fabric continues to grow mould despite precautions, you may be facing a property-wide damp problem.

Is Mould on Fabric a Sign of Housing Disrepair?

Yes. If your home suffers from ongoing:

• Leaking roofs or pipes

• Rising damp

• Condensation from poor insulation or a lack of ventilation

…and your clothes, curtains, bedding, or furniture are being damaged by mould—it is not your fault. Your landlord may be in breach of their legal responsibility to maintain a safe, habitable home.

When Can Tenants Make a Claim?

Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords must fix:

• Damp and mould issues

• Poor ventilation

• Leaks are causing damage to personal property

If they don’t, you may be entitled to:

• Compensation for mould-damaged items

• Repairs at no cost to you

• A safer, mould-free living environment

Start your housing disrepair claim today – we’ll handle the legal process and get your home fixed.

Take Action Now

Don’t let mould damage your belongings or affect your health. Whether you’re dealing with mould on curtains, bedding, or clothes, fixing the cause is just as important as cleaning the stains.

If your landlord isn’t doing their part, it’s time to act.

Contact Housing Disrepair Team Today:

• Request your free consultation

• Visit our damp and mould claims page

• Read: How to Get Mould Out of Fabric

Final Thoughts

Removing mould stains from coloured fabric takes time, care, and the right materials. But if the mould keeps coming back, the issue may not be your fault—it could be a symptom of poor property maintenance.

Protect your health, your belongings, and your rights.