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How to Get Mildew Out of Dolls

Mildew can form on just about any surface, including dolls and related accessories. According to Merriam-Webster's online dictionary, mildew is a superficial growth, usually whitish in color, produced by fungi, especially on organic matter or living plants. It is the common name for various molds and grows with warmth and humidity. If left uncontrolled, mildew can cause allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory problems, warns the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Removing mildew and its odor from dolls is challenging but possible with the right chemicals and steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Rubber gloves
  • Nose mask
  • Mesh laundry bag
  • Chlorine bleach
  • Warm water
  • Plastic pan or container
  • Small cleaning brush
  • Dish-washing soap
  • Two rags or towels
  • Baby oil or body oil
  • Paper towels
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on the rubber gloves and nose mask for protection.

    • 2

      Remove any clothing from the doll and place the clothing in the mesh laundry bag.

    • 3

      Place the bag in the washing machine, using mild detergent and cold water to launder the clothing.

    • 4

      Fill the plastic pan or container with warm water and 2 tbsp. chlorine bleach.

    • 5

      Allow only the body of the doll to soak in the container for two hours. (See note about treating older dolls.) After the first hour, check to ensure the mildew is breaking up.

    • 6

      After two hours, remove the doll's body from the container and, using a small brush, scrub off any remaining mildew. To remove stubborn spots, dip the brush in the bleach solution before scrubbing.

    • 7

      If the doll's hair also contains mildew, use the rag or towel dipped in the bleach solution to clean. To cleanse the doll's face, wipe it gently with the bleach-dipped cloth.

    • 8

      After all mildew has been removed, rinse the doll with warm water.

    • 9

      Prepare a solution of 1 cup of dish-washing soap and 2 cups of warm water. Dip a rag or towel in the soapy water and clean the doll again.

    • 10

      Rinse the doll with warm water and dry it with a clean towel or rag.

    • 11

      Using a small rag or a paper towel, apply some of the oil to the doll's hair and body as a conditioner.


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