Clorox to Remove Mildew
- Household chlorine bleach, a combination of sodium hypochlorite and water, is considered an anti-microbial pesticide and fungicide. Chlorine bleach kills bacteria and viruses, including mildew and molds and fungi. The chemical is a common ingredient as a disinfectant for laundry and house cleaning, removing harmful bacteria, viruses and mildew. Long-term use causes yellowing and deterioration of clothing fabrics and may erode synthetic rubber components of many household appliances.
- As a mildew remover, chlorine bleach is very effective. Most household-cleaning recipes call for one-half cup to 1 cup of household bleach per gallon of hot water to kill mildew from clothing and surfaces; lesser amounts remove musty odors and prevent mildew formation. After thoroughly cleaning and rinsing the mildewed surface with bleach, you should thoroughly dry the object and place it in a dry, clean environment to kill any remaining mildew spores in the air.
- Chlorine bleach kills mildew on nearly any solid surface including cement, tile, painted surfaces, fabrics, plastics, glass, porcelain and other nonporous surfaces. Take care when using it with painted wood, as the moisture may cause the wood to swell and warp and the bleach may discolor the painted surface. Avoid using chlorine bleach on materials such as rubber seals, as the caustic properties of the chemical may deteriorate the rubber.
- In sensitive people, the sodium hypochlorite in chlorine bleach may cause severe reactions, such as respiratory distress, skin rash or blisters, and irritation to the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. The chemicals in bleach may also cause severe reactions when mixed with other chemicals, such as ammonia and other common household cleaners. Bleach spilled on clothes will remove the color from the fabric; if left on the fabric, the bleach may even disintegrate the fibers.
