Have you ever opened your washing machine expecting the satisfying scent of fresh laundry, only to be greeted by a musty, unpleasant mildew odor? Mildew smell in clothes can feel like an uninvited guest that refuses to leave, but with the right techniques, your clothes can smell fresh again in no time.
In this post, we have considered both natural and accessible solutions, backed by expert advice, to help you”How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell in Clothes “.Whether you prefer DIY remedies or store-bought options, we’ve got you covered with more than 7 effective ideas to solve the issue by experts, guides, and advice.
Why Do Clothes Smell Like Mildew?
The mildew smell occurs when clothes stay damp for too long, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Forgotten laundry in the washing machine or improper drying can often cause this issue. But don’t worry! There are many ways to tackle it effectively.
Quick Tip:
Dr. Emily Carter, a home care expert, explains, “Mildew growth is a result of poor drying practices and high humidity. The sooner you treat it, the better.”
Now, let’s look at how to solve this!
MORE HELP FOR YOU:
How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell in Clothes
1. Sun-Dry Your Clothes
One of the simplest and most effective solutions for killing mildew odors is to dry your clothes in direct sunlight. The UV rays from the sun act as a natural disinfectant, breaking down and eliminating odor-causing bacteria and mildew that thrive in damp environments. Not only does sunlight help tackle the unpleasant smell, but the fresh outdoor air also leaves your clothes feeling crisp and clean.
To maximize the effect, hang your clothes in a well-ventilated area with plenty of sunlight, ensuring that each item gets even exposure. This eco-friendly method is not only effective but also saves energy compared to using a dryer.
How-To:
- Lay your clothes outside in direct sunlight on a clothesline or drying rack.
- Flip the clothes occasionally to ensure even drying.
- If the smell persists, repeat the process the next day.
Why does this work? The sun’s UV rays not only help deodorize fabric but also prevent the further growth of moisture-loving bacteria.
Bonus Question:
What if it’s winter?
If drying outside isn’t feasible, place your clothes indoors near a well-ventilated window where sunlight streams in. Alternatively, combine this method with another from the list!
Quote: “There’s no substitute for natural sunlight—it’s the best germ killer there is,” says Eleanor Bright, head of EcoClean Laundry Services.
2. White Vinegar Rinse
White vinegar is a go-to natural deodorizer and mold killer, widely praised for its versatility and effectiveness in household cleaning. Its acidic properties work to break down odor-causing bacteria, making it an excellent choice for tackling unpleasant smells in everything from clothes to shoes.
Not only does it neutralize odors, but it also helps remove mold and mildew, leaving fabrics and surfaces clean and fresh. Adding a cup to your laundry can leave your clothes smelling fresh and feeling softer, all without the need for harsh chemicals.
How-To:
- Add 1 cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle of your washing machine.
- Alternatively, soak mildew-smelling clothes in a mixture of 1 part vinegar and 4 parts water for 30 minutes before washing as usual.
- Dry immediately after washing.
Pro Tip:
- For extra freshness, add a few drops of essential oil to the vinegar before use—lavender works wonders!
Random Question:
Will my clothes smell like vinegar?
Not at all! The smell dissipates completely as your clothes dry.
Quote: “White vinegar is a miracle worker in the laundry room. It’s budget-friendly and highly effective for deodorizing,” notes domestic cleaning expert, Sarah Wenderson.
3. Baking Soda Boost
If you’re looking for a cost-effective and chemical-free way to tackle mildew smells, baking soda is a household hero. This versatile ingredient is not only great for neutralizing unpleasant odors, but it also works wonders in lifting tough stains.
Simply sprinkle it on the affected area, let it sit for a while to absorb the smell, and then clean it off. Whether you’re freshening up laundry, carpets, or surfaces, baking soda is an affordable and eco-friendly solution to keep your home smelling fresh and clean.
How-To:
- Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda directly on mildew-smelling clothes in your washing machine along with your usual detergent.
- Run a full washing cycle on warm water.
Baking soda is especially useful for gym clothes that absorb sweat and odors.
Bonus Question:
Can I mix baking soda and vinegar?
Yes, but use them in separate washing phases—vinegar in the rinse cycle and baking soda in the main wash—for maximum effectiveness.
Quote: “Baking soda works like a sponge for bad smells—it’s a laundry lifesaver!” says Timothy Howard, chemist and cleaning expert.
4. Tea Tree Oil Wash
Tea tree oil is not just for skincare! Known for its powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties, it’s a natural solution for tackling mildew and bacteria in fabrics. Whether you’re dealing with musty towels, gym clothes, or household linens, adding a few drops of tea tree oil to your laundry routine can help eliminate unpleasant odors and leave your fabrics feeling fresh and clean. It’s an eco-friendly way to keep your home and belongings in top condition.
How-To:
- Add 8–10 drops of tea tree oil to your washing machine along with your regular detergent.
- For hand washing, mix the oil with water and soak your clothes before rinsing thoroughly.
Tea tree oil leaves a refreshing, earthy scent on your clothes—a definite upgrade from mildew!
Quote: “Tea tree oil is nature’s secret weapon against mold and mildew,” shares Dr. Megan Cross, organic product specialist.
5. Boil Wash for Sturdy Fabrics
For durable fabrics like towels or sheets, a boil wash can effectively kill bacteria and remove mildew odors.
How-To:
- Boil a large pot of water, add a gentle detergent and ½ cup of baking soda or vinegar.
- Submerge the affected clothes for 10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly in cold water.
Avoid this method for delicate fabrics like silk or wool, as it can damage fibers.
Tip: If boiling sounds tricky, try using your machine’s high-temperature setting!
Expert’s Note: “The high heat of a boil wash is unmatched for sanitizing tough, mildew-filled fabrics,” advises textile expert, Michelle Harris.
6. Activated Charcoal
Did you know charcoal is a natural deodorizer? It works by absorbing smells instead of just masking them, thanks to its porous structure, which traps odor-causing particles. This makes it an effective and eco-friendly solution for keeping your home, shoes, or even your fridge smelling fresh.
How-To:
- Place activated charcoal sachets or bags into a plastic bag with your smelly garments.
- Seal it tightly and leave it overnight.
- Wash your clothes afterward.
This is perfect for delicate fabrics or pieces that can’t be washed often.
Quote: “Charcoal is an unsung hero when it comes to odor absorption,” says Aaron Lee, expert in natural cleaning methods.
7. Store-Bought Odor Eliminators
If natural remedies don’t do the trick, specialized laundry products like OxiClean Odor Blaster or Febreze Laundry Additive can tackle the toughest smells.
How-To:
- Follow the product’s instructions for the best results.
- Combine with one of the natural methods above for a more effective solution.
Bonus Tip: Use odor eliminators sparingly to avoid build-up on your clothes over time.
Expert Insight: “Commercial odor eliminators are great for convenience, especially for busy households,” says cleaning strategist, Marie Carter.
Take Back That Fresh Laundry Smell
Don’t let mildew smells ruin your wardrobe or confidence. With natural and commercial solutions alike, you’ll be back to enjoying fresh, clean clothes in no time. Whether it’s using the power of the sun, versatile vinegar, or a specialty product, mixing these methods ensures your clothes always come out fresh.
Still struggling? Share your own laundry hacks in the comments below or tag a friend who needs these tips!
Here’s to fresh-smelling laundry—every single time.
