Mildew thrives in the presence of heat, darkness and moisture. Mildew usually attacks cellulose fibers such as cotton, linen and ramie. Mildew can also attack man made-fibers if conditions are right and if left for a long length of time. Therefore, clothes that remain wet for any length of time have the potential of mildewing. If any garments are made of nylon, place them in a separate pile.
Chlorine bleach is the only bleach that kills mildew.
Immerse the garments into the water and allow the garment to soak for 15 to 30 minutes. For clothes that are heavily mildewed, increase the liquid chorine bleach to two tablespoons per gallon of water. Treat four to six garments at a time for best results in removing the mildew. Rinse in clear water. Check to see if the mildew has been removed.