Removing mould stains from curtains

I've noticed that the curtains in a couple of our rooms have mould stains. I'm pretty sure they've been like it since we moved into this rental property (4 months ago) - have only just properly checked though :rolleyes:. Any handy hints for removing mould stains from curtains - they're those big, heavy curtains with the rubbery backing (which is where the stains are)???

Thanks in advance.

Is your washing machine big enough to put them in. Maybe put them on a hot wash and hang them in the sun for day?

I don't think my washing machine is big enough :( - they're huge (floor length) curtains for quite a big window... thanks for the idea though Jodi.

oh bummer. I've googled it, and they say the best way is to wash them and dry in the sun. Would they fit in a laundromat washing machine, or how about a dry cleaner? Can they be dry cleaned? Or can you wipe the back of them with a damp cloth then dry it completely.

I've just found this from google:

tackle mildew as soon as you discover it. Try to brush off as much as possible (outdoors so that you do not spread more spores through the house) and if spots still remain, wash them once with detergent and water, then dry in the sun. If the stain remains, moisten with some lemon juice and then spread with salt and leave in the sun to dry, before rinsing thoroughly. Alternatively, you can use chlorine bleach: 2 tbsp of liquid bleach mixed with one quart of warm water and then sponged onto the stain or even soak the stained area in the solution. Leave it for 5-15 minutes before rinsing. Remember to always check colour-fastness and never use chlorine bleach on silk or wool.

Hope that helps.

Thanks Jodi! I'll have to give some of that a try - might wait for the weekend when DH is home to help ;).

Can you wash the curtains in the bath?