The World Health Organization has found that homes in NSW are damper than is considered safe, and here in the ACT we prepare for another wet spring thanks to La Nina.

As mould may very well be enemy #1 in the coming months, Australian waste management service, SCRgroup, provided their best tips for minimising mould in your wardrobe – and what to do if you find sartorial mould!

Tip 1: Declutter your clothes

If your wardrobe is overflowing with clothing, you are already at a disadvantage when it comes to avoiding mould.

A jam-packed wardrobe prevents air flow, and mould loves damp, dark spaces. 

To declutter your closet, pack away clothes you won’t be wearing for a while.

As we come into spring, most heavy coats and jumpers can be packed away (bar your favourite, for fickle Canberra weather).

Look at vacuum-sealing them to prevent moisture from getting in.

If you are no longer in love with something that is still in wearable condition, look at selling it online, or donating it to your local op shop, or via SCRgroup’s collection bins. 

Tip 2: Make sure your clothes are completely dry before storing them

This sounds simple, but it can be a pain to dry your clothes when it’s constantly raining. Also, have you ever noticed how tricky it is to tell between damp and cold fabrics?

If hanging clothes outside to dry isn’t an option, make sure your clothes are spaced out on a drying rack to allow plenty of air to circulate between them.

Consider using a fan to help the process along, or a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air.

Tip 3: Defence against dampness

To prevent dampness, regularly air out your wardrobes by leaving the doors open whilst the doors or windows in your room are also open.

Lining the shelves of your wardrobe with newspapers will act as the first line of defence against any dampness.

Pop a few silica gel packets or charcoal sachets throughout your wardrobe as an added measure. 

Uh oh, you found mould

The first course of action is to empty out your wardrobe to make sure the mould hasn’t spread.

You may be able to save any affected clothing but first, check the care label to see what might damage the fabric, since the best chance of killing sartorial mould is to crank up your washing machine to the hottest temperature possible, and give the clothes a 10-to-30-minute wash.

Most mould species cannot survive high temperatures.

Mould Cleaning Australia also suggests removing the stains before the clothes dry with an old toothbrush and a mould stain remover, such as bleach, vinegar, baking soda, borax, or detergent.

Remember, op shops and collection bins cannot accept clothes with mould on them, and it is important they are not donated, as the mould can spread to other donations. 

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