Design & DIY

What will remove mould stains from lifejackets?

Orange lifejacket on pile of lifejackets Photo by Chanintorn.v/Shutterstock

What will remove mould stains from lifejackets?

Once that insidious mould makes its appearance, it’s hard to kill. But it can be held at bay by several simple methods. Many stain removers are sold by lifejacket manufacturers and can be found where marine supplies are sold. Most mould can be removed by soaking the jacket for a full 36 hours and then scrubbing it with a soft brush.

You can also soak the mildewed jacket in a solution of 500 ml of salt per four litres of water for several hours, scrubbing affected areas, then hanging to dry completely. Then wash again with soap and dry completely before storing.

The final word: prevention. After each use, hang lifejackets in the sun (UV helps to kill mould), spaced so they don’t touch, until they dry completely, then store in a dry place out of the sun.

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