6 Easy Steps On How To Get Mildew Smell Out Of Blanket

Aside from being unpleasant, mildew can be a threat to your health. Get to know how to get mildew smell out of blanket so that you can stay safe and cozy in your bedroom.

Mildew is a fungi that grows in warm and damp areas and surfaces of your home, including your blanket. Of course, you have to remove it, but the work does not stop there as its smell may still linger after.

how to get mildew smell out of blanket

 

How Does Mildew Smell?

If you smell something damp and musty that resembles the odor of wet carpets and rotting wood, then it is probably mildew. It can also smell earthy and tangy.

The horrible smell of mildew comes from the microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOC) that it releases when it grows. The scent may vary, but as soon as you notice a foul odor in your home, you should track it down for possible mold or mildew growth.

Don’t be complacent if the scent is not that strong. It may be a sign that mildew has only started growing, but it does not take away the danger that comes with it.

 

Mildew vs. mold smell

Mildew is a kind of mold. It grows on shower walls, windows, and other areas with a high level of moisture, whereas mold tends to grow on almost all surfaces like clothing and bags.

The smell of mildew is almost the same as that of damp socks, which is undeniably disgusting! Mold, on the other hand, has a strong and more pungent odor.

For more information about what does house mold smell like, try reading this article. 

 

Getting Rid Of Mildew Smell In Your Blanket

Once you have finished removing mildew, it is time to make sure that no traces are left by getting rid of the smell. Follow the simple steps below for effective cleaning.

 

Step #1. Inspect for remaining mildew spores

Virtually inspect your blanket for any remaining mold spores. If you spot some, use a clean and dry cloth to wipe them or brush them away over a trash can.

It is better if you do this step outside. It is to make sure to prevent the mildew spores from becoming airborne.

 

Step #2. Treat the mildew stains

One of the ways to treat mold stains is by using lemon. Squeeze it directly on the entire stain, then sprinkle an amount of table salt over it. 

Scrub the salt into the fabric using a sponge or a clean cloth. Then, let the blanket sit out in the sun for four to five hours.

 

Step #3. Wash the blanket

Wash your blanket with the hottest water possible and omit the detergent. Then, add one cup of white vinegar when you rinse.

 

Step #4. Rewash the blanket

Run another cycle. This time use a scented detergent to induce a pleasant and fresh aroma to your blanket.

 

Step #5. Add fabric softener

When you rinse your blanket, add an amount of liquid fabric softener.

 

Step #6. Dry your blanket

After rinsing, hang it outside under the sun if possible. If the type of fabric and the weather do not allow it, use a dryer with the hottest setting possible.

 

The dangers of mildew smell

Mold and mildew may not always cause diseases, but they can trigger symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, coughing, throat irritation, and eye irritation. However, if mildew is not removed immediately, health risks might become severe over time.

Such issues can be worse for people with respiratory problems like asthma. Nonetheless, mildew is not as dangerous as mold.

Even so, You must take mildew seriously unless you want to risk your health and your home.

 

Preventing the smell of mildew

The most effective way of preventing mildew smell is to prevent mildew from growing in the first place. It is also best if you keep your home well ventilated by opening windows and using fans.

Once you spot mildew growth, do a deep cleaning and ensure that no mildew spores are left. You can also try using air purifiers or boil lemon peels and use them as an air freshener.

Of course, if the contamination is too much for you to handle, call for professional help to ensure that all the mildew spores are gotten rid of. Here is an article on where to buy CLR mold and mildew remover for one of the most effective ways to treat mold and mildew. 

 

Conclusion

Our blankets are our best friends when we sleep. It is essential to keep them clean and fresh to enjoy the best of our beds and have the rest that we all deserve.

Now that you know how to get mildew smell out of blanket, it will help you a lot in preventing any health risks; not just for you but also for your children and fur friends. It will be a proud moment to smell your blanket after getting it out of the washing machine as it smells great.

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