For many of us, our wardrobes are sacred spaces where our personal style and treasured outfits reside. However, they can also become cluttered catch-alls for clothes we might not have worn in years. This clutter isn't just an eyesore; it can lead to a problem much worse than a messy closet: mould. But fear not, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, because experts have a surprisingly simple trick to keep your clothes mould-free, and it's as easy as lifting a finger.


Mould thrives in dark, damp environments, and a cluttered wardrobe is a perfect breeding ground for these pesky fungi. When clothes are packed too tightly together, air can't circulate properly, trapping moisture and creating the ideal conditions for mould and mildew to flourish. This is particularly true for natural fibres like cotton, wool, or linen, which are more susceptible to mould damage.


The solution? According to Rebecca Samuels, a lifestyle buyer at Suit Direct, the key is to give your clothes some breathing room. 'You should ideally make sure every hanger has a finger width of space between the other, giving it breathing space,' she advises. Additionally, airing out your clothing regularly by exposing them to fresh air and sunlight can work wonders. Sunlight is a natural mould killer, so by wearing and airing out your outfits more often, you're not only enjoying your wardrobe to its fullest but also preventing mould from taking hold.


Decluttering and reorganising your wardrobe is a great start. Not only does it create more space for ventilation, but it also means you'll likely wear your clothes more often, giving them more opportunities to be aired out in the sun. However, if you do find mould on your clothes, it's important to assess the extent of the damage. Heavily contaminated items or those with persistent stains and odours might need to be discarded.

For items that can be salvaged, a hot wash with vinegar or oxygen bleach (never together, as they can create toxic fumes) can be effective. Detergents alone often don't kill mould spores, so these alternatives can be a better choice. For non-washable items like boots and leather jackets, brushing off the mould outside with a soft-bristled brush or cloth is recommended. Remember to wear a mask to avoid inhaling spores and dispose of the cleaning materials afterwards.

Mould isn't the only wardrobe menace; moths can also cause significant damage to your clothes. A cluttered wardrobe that hasn't been cleaned or refreshed in a while provides the perfect dark environment for moths to thrive. If you notice unexpected holes in your garments, it's a telltale sign of a moth infestation.


To combat these unwelcome guests, Samuels suggests using scented sachets with natural repellents like cedarwood, lavender, and rosemary. These not only keep your clothes smelling fresh but also help to moth-proof your storage. It's best to place these sachets after a thorough declutter and clean-out to ensure any existing moths are removed.

Remember, a well-organised and maintained wardrobe isn't just about aesthetics; it's about preserving the quality and longevity of your clothing. So take a moment to declutter, give your clothes some space, and enjoy a mould and moth-free closet.

We'd love to hear from you, our savvy seniors! Have you tried any of these tips, or do you have any wardrobe maintenance secrets of your own? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below, and let's help each other keep our closets in tip-top shape!