If you accidentally washed a moldy shirt with regular clothes, it's essential to take immediate action to prevent the spread of mold spores to the rest of the clothes and your washing machine. Here's what you should do:
Remove the Moldy Shirt: First, remove the moldy shirt from the washing machine. Avoid shaking or handling the shirt too much to prevent spreading mold spores further.
Inspect Other Clothes: Check the other clothes for any visible signs of mold or mildew. If you see any visible mold spots on other garments, do not shake them or handle them excessively.
Re-Wash Affected Clothes: If you find mold on any other clothes, take them out of the washing machine and separate them from the unaffected ones. Rewash the affected clothes separately using hot water and a laundry detergent that contains bleach or an oxygen-based bleach alternative. This can help kill mold spores and remove stains. Follow the garment care instructions and use the appropriate water temperature.
Clean Your Washing Machine: After removing the affected clothes, clean your washing machine thoroughly to eliminate any remaining mold spores. Run an empty cycle with hot water and add white vinegar or chlorine bleach to the detergent dispenser (do not mix vinegar and bleach). These substances can help disinfect and sanitize the machine. Alternatively, you can use a washing machine cleaner or a specialized washing machine disinfectant.
Wipe Down the Drum and Seal: After the cleaning cycle, wipe down the inside of the washing machine drum and the rubber seal with a clean cloth dampened with white vinegar. This will help remove any remaining mold and prevent future growth.
Air Out the Laundry Area: Proper ventilation is essential to discourage mold growth. Make sure your laundry area is well-ventilated and consider using a dehumidifier if the area tends to be damp.
Inspect Unaffected Clothes: Inspect the clothes that were not visibly affected by mold. If they were not directly exposed to the moldy shirt and show no signs of mold or musty smell, they should be safe to use. You can rewash them as a precautionary measure if you're unsure.
Consider Professional Cleaning: If you are unsure about the effectiveness of washing the affected clothes yourself, or if the mold contamination is severe, consider taking the clothes to a professional cleaner with experience in handling moldy garments.
Remember, prompt action is crucial to preventing the spread of mold and protecting your clothes. Mold can be harmful to your health, and proper cleaning procedures are essential to maintain a healthy living environment.