Moldy lifejacket cleaning tips?

[wkearney99]

Anyone had luck cleaning lifejackets? I've got a couple of kid sized ones we've used for guests. To my dismay they're showing a bit of mold or something. They must not have been clean/dry when I put them away last Fall. I tried running them through the washing machine. That cleaned them up somewhat but didn't put a dent in what looks like mold or mildew.

Given these are often for small kids I want to avoid new parent "worries" about exposure to things. I know, life is dirty, get used to it... Meanwhile I'd rather avoid guests worrying about it.

I've seen a few posts elsewhere online with suggestions. Anyone here have a tried-and-true method? Lemon/sun, vinegar, bleach, etc? I know to be careful about bleach, of course.

[O C Diver]

There is a difference between a stain and mold. A mild solution of bleach and water will kill the mold, rinse thoroughly afterwards. Stains may not come out, but aren't a health risk. I would try a scotchbrite sponge with a little dawn dishwashing soap and maybe a little bleach afterwards.

Ted

[Comodave]

Mildew Stain Remover worked well on some of mine.

[firstbase]

Clean garbage can filled 3/4 with a good squirt of Dawn, a half gallon of of bleach and water (I had 6-7 of them to do so went big time). Shove the life jackets in and let soak. I think I used a brick to weight them down some. Flip the jackets around a couple of times over the course of an hour so all areas are exposed to the bleach/detergent. Then hang up soaking wet and let the sun help the bleach and dry them out. The jackets that came with our boat were throw away disgusting but I thought I would give it a try. Glad I did because they came out looking almost brand new.