The last thing you want is mold on your bibs. And once these black spots start to appear there is very little you can do. However, there are ways to prevent it.
Cause
Mould is a fungal growth that forms and spreads through damp and decaying organic matter. It grows where there’s lots of moisture. This, combined with the lack of airflow and high humidity is the perfect breeding ground for mold. An example is a wet drool bib covered in saliva placed in a laundry basket. Or a bib that hasn’t been dried and stored properly.
Why is mold bad for babies?
According to moldblogger, it can be harmful to babies and cause problems including lung issues, gastrointestinal problems, and rashes. We recommend you see a doctor if you have any concerns about your baby’s health.
Preventing mold on bibs
The best way to prevent mould from forming is to wash them regularly, preferably daily. This will not give mold a chance to form. Once cleaned they should be dried as quickly as possible. Cotton bibs that are dried slowly increase the chance of mold growing on them.
What should I do if my bib has spots?
If your bib has black spots we recommend throwing them out. The safety of your baby should be your top priority. If you are determined to keep the bib you can try to remove the mold, but we don’t recommend this. And it should be done as soon as it’s discovered. The longer you wait the harder it will be to remove.
How to get rid of mould on fabric bibs
If you decide to try and remove it, Persil offers these suggestions;
- White Distilled Vinegar — Dilute and work directly into the stain. Or pre-soak in a bucket of water with one cup of vinegar.
- Bleach -This is great at killing mould but also fades colours. And can only be used on certain materials. It’s not the safest of chemicals to use either.
- Hydrogen Peroxide — You can create a solution of hydrogen peroxide. But this can only be used on organic fabrics.
- Household Soap — Use household soap by rinsing and rubbing into the fabric. Wash, then dry the bib in the sun.
- Borax — Also known as sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, or disodium tetraborate. This is a multi-purpose cleaner. And it has antifungal properties. This can be found in most supermarket chains throughout Australia.
We hope this article has helped with any issues you may have with mould on your bibs.
Designer Profile — This article was updated in June 2025 by Luisa Figueroa — I am the owner, designer, and maker of the My Little Love Heart range of bibs and accessories.