How to get musty/mildew odor out of a dress?

[DancinProf]

Hi everybody! Haven't posted or read in ages but I need some expert help. Recently I've bought a couple of Latin/Rhythm dresses on clearance from an overseas company. They must have been in storage for a while or something because they both have a noticeable musty/mildew odor (but no visible stains or discoloration). I washed both in mild shampoo per the washing instructions that came with them, but now that they have dried they still smell bad (albeit a bit less bad). I am planning on wearing one at a comp next weekend so I'm panicking a bit. What product(s) could I use to clean these dresses, or by what means could I wash them, without worrying about stones falling off or color fading? Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

 

[MaggieMoves]

The shampoo is going to be the most gentle..
But it won't aways work. You can try dry cleaning to see if it will help. Adding some vinegar to shampoo while hand washing is another idea, but it may ruin/stain the dress.

Sorry that you're in a bind. I would wash them again to see if the smell goes away. Dry clean as a last resort.

They may still get musky when you sweat in them though.

 

[middy]

Try a vodka spray? That can be good for removing odors. Perhaps a lot of vodka.

 

[Miss Silly]

I use vodka for bad body odor. Haven't tried it for mold, but I definitely would give it a try!

 

[Loki]

I use vodka for bad body odor.

Curing it or causing it?

 

[Dr Dance]

 

[MaggieMoves]

Curing it or causing it?

Nothing like going on the dance floor stinkin' of booze!

 

[Loki]

Nothing like going on the dance floor stinkin' of booze!

Yes, that would be an unusual dress for break dancing.