Few things are as frustrating as pulling freshly washed clothes from the machine only to be greeted by that musty, mildew smell. This unpleasant odor usually comes from dampness, detergent buildup, or bacteria thriving in your washing machine or fabrics. If left untreated, it can cling to your laundry even after multiple washes, making clothes smell far from fresh.
Fortunately, there are effective ways to eliminate mildew smells from laundry for good. With the right cleaning techniques, natural odor-fighting ingredients, and a few preventative habits, you can restore your clothes to their crisp, clean scent every time you wash.
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How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell in Laundry for Good
Rewash Clothes with Baking Soda and Vinegar
When your laundry smells musty, the first step is to give it a second wash—this time with odor-fighting agents. Skip the regular detergent and instead add one cup of white vinegar during the wash cycle to dissolve bacteria and residue. Then, run another cycle with half a cup of baking soda to neutralize any lingering odors.
Vinegar and baking soda work together as natural deodorizers that penetrate fabric fibers and kill mildew-causing bacteria. Avoid mixing them in the same cycle, as they neutralize each other’s effectiveness. After washing, dry your clothes thoroughly to prevent the smell from returning.
Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly
A dirty washing machine is one of the most common culprits behind mildew-scented laundry. Detergent residue, lint, and trapped moisture create a breeding ground for mold inside the drum and gasket. Over time, this buildup transfers to your clothes.
To fix this, run a cleaning cycle using two cups of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner. For front-loading machines, wipe the rubber seal and door with a vinegar-soaked cloth to remove grime. Make it a habit to leave the door open after each wash so the interior can dry completely and stay fresh.
Avoid Overloading the Washer
Cramming too many clothes into the washing machine prevents water and detergent from circulating properly. This leaves parts of your laundry only partially cleaned and can trap moisture, leading to that unpleasant musty smell.
Wash smaller loads to ensure that each item is thoroughly rinsed and spun. Your washer will perform more efficiently, and your clothes will come out cleaner and fresher. Giving garments enough room to move freely also helps them dry faster afterward, further reducing mildew risk.
Dry Clothes Completely and Quickly
Leaving clothes damp for too long—whether in the washer or the dryer—can instantly cause mildew to form. Even slightly damp fabrics can start to smell within hours, especially in humid conditions.
Remove clothes from the washer as soon as the cycle finishes and dry them immediately. Use the highest heat your fabric allows, or air-dry items in a well-ventilated space. For thicker materials like towels, ensure they are fully dry before folding or storing to keep mildew odors from returning.
Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Using too much detergent might seem like a way to get laundry cleaner, but it often has the opposite effect. Excess soap can leave residue on clothes and inside the machine, trapping dirt and bacteria that cause odors over time.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for detergent use, adjusting based on your load size and water hardness. Occasionally, run a rinse-only cycle to clear away any leftover suds. Clean fabrics not only smell fresher but also feel softer and last longer.
Add a Natural Odor Neutralizer
If you want your laundry to smell naturally fresh, try adding essential oils or odor-neutralizing boosters during the rinse cycle. Scents like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus not only mask musty smells but also contain mild antibacterial properties that help keep fabrics clean.
You can also use a cup of borax or washing soda as an odor absorber. These natural additives enhance your detergent’s cleaning power and help break down lingering mildew spores. Your clothes will come out smelling clean without artificial fragrances.
Keep Laundry Baskets and Hampers Dry
Even clean clothes can pick up mildew odors if stored in a damp basket or hamper. Moisture, sweat, and leftover detergent from unwashed items create the perfect environment for mold to thrive.
To avoid this, clean your laundry baskets regularly with a disinfecting spray or vinegar solution. Let them dry completely before placing clothes inside. For added protection, line the bottom with a washable fabric liner and wash it every few weeks to maintain freshness.
Store Clothes in a Well-Ventilated Area
Storing clothes in a damp or poorly ventilated space can undo all your hard work. Humidity encourages mold growth, especially in closets or drawers that don’t get much air circulation.
Use moisture absorbers like silica gel packets or activated charcoal to keep the area dry. Leave some space between garments to allow airflow, and avoid sealing freshly washed clothes in airtight containers. A breathable storage setup ensures your laundry stays fresh and odor-free long after washing.
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