Preventing Mildew In Fabrics
Keep fabrics dry.
Never let clothing or other fabric articles lie around
damp. Dry soiled clothes before putting them into the
hamper. Wash out dishcloths and hang them to dry. Spread
out washcloths and damp towels. Stretch out wet shower
curtains. It is the wet curtain left bunched together or
sticking to the wall or tub that is most likely to mildew.
Sprinkle only as many articles as can be ironed in a
day. Shake out and dry those not ironed.
Dry washed garments and fabrics thoroughly and
quickly. Fabrics dried slowly may get sour and musty
smelling--a sign of mold growth.
Wash or dry-clean before storing, as soiled articles
are more likely to mildew than clean ones. Unless you
know that your laundry starch contains a mildew inhibitor,
do not leave starch in fabrics you are going to store;
molds feed on starch.
From time to time on warm, dry days, sun and air
the articles stored in closets. It pays to occasionally
inspect cotton, rayon, leather, and woolen clothing
stored in garment bags. A closed bag, dampness, and hot
summer weather make ideal growing conditions for molds.