Got clothes that stink of mildew and just won’t freshen up? It’s annoying, right? Whether it’s from damp storage, not drying properly, or just plain bad luck, that musty smell can stick to fabrics like glue.
Well, don’t worry—you can fix this! This guide will teach you how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes using simple household remedies. With a few common items, you can remove musty odor from fabric and make your clothes smell fresh again.
How to Get Mildew Smell Out of Clothes Quickly?
Here are some tried-and-true methods using common household items to help your clothes smell fresh after washing:
White Vinegar
White vinegar is a total game-changer when it comes to how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes. Just toss a cup into your wash cycle with your usual detergent, and let it work its magic. The acetic acid in vinegar takes down those mildew odors and leaves your clothes smelling fresh. Got a smell that just won’t quit? Soak your clothes in a mix of one part vinegar and four parts water for about 30 minutes before washing. If you’re wondering how to get rid of moldy smell in garments, this trick is a winner.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is another superstar for keeping your clothes odor-free. Just sprinkle half a cup into your washing machine along with your detergent, and let it do its thing. It’s amazing at tackling mildew scent in laundry. Want to go the extra mile? Pair it with vinegar for an unstoppable odor-fighting combo. If you’re still figuring out how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes, this duo will never let you down.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice not only smells fantastic but also packs a punch as a natural odor remover. Mix it up with water (equal parts), and dab it onto the smelly areas before washing. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then toss everything into the machine. This simple hack is one of the best methods for deodorizing clothing without breaking a sweat.
Air Drying
Sometimes, the old-school methods are the best. Sunlight and fresh air are nature’s best cleaners. Hang your clothes outside on a sunny day, and let the UV rays do their job. They’ll kill off any mildew-causing bacteria, and the fresh air will take care of the leftover smell. Plus, airdrying is perfect for preventing musty smells in stored clothing and keeps delicate fabrics like satin wrinkle-free. It’s an effective step in learning how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes naturally.
Oxygen Bleach
Oxygen bleach is a gentler option than chlorine bleach and works wonders on stubborn mildew smells. Just follow the instructions on the package, and let it work its magic. It’s an excellent way to tackle mildew smell in clothes after storage, especially for garments that have been tucked away for too long.
Odor Eliminating Sprays
Fabric sprays designed for odors are lifesavers. Look for ones specifically made as odor eliminators for mildew in laundry. Use them after washing to add that extra layer of freshness. When figuring out how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes, these sprays are a no-fuss solution.
Other Ways to Remove Mildew Smells
Sometimes, just washing your clothes isn’t enough to get rid of that stubborn mildew smell. Don’t worry—there are a few more tricks you can try to make sure your clothes are fresh and clean:
Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaners are a fantastic way to tackle tough odors. The hot steam goes deep into the fabric fibers, killing mildew spores that might still be hanging around. It’s like giving your clothes a spa day to freshen smelly clothes completely.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a natural odor absorber that works wonders for clothes that have been in storage. Just place some activated charcoal near your stored clothes, and it will soak up any unpleasant smells. It’s an easy and mess-free way to remove musty odor from fabric and prevent odors from returning.
Essential Oils
Adding essential oils to your rinse cycle is a simple way to make your clothes smell amazing. A few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil can do the trick. Not only do they leave a pleasant fragrance, but they also help mask any remaining musty odors. It’s a great option when looking for natural remedies for odor removal.
Mildew vs. Mold
While mildew and mold are often used interchangeably, they’re not quite the same. Mildew is a surface fungus that’s easier to clean and usually appears gray or white. Mold, on the other hand, is thicker, darker, and more hazardous to health. If you notice green or black patches on clothes, you’re likely dealing with mold, which requires professional cleaning or disposal.
How to Prevent Mildew Smells in Clothes
Stopping mildew smells before they start is always the best move. Here are some simple ways to avoid needing to figure out how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes later:
- Store Clothes Properly: Make sure your clothes are completely dry before you store them. Damp fabrics are a breeding ground for mildew. Use airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to keep moisture out.
- Use Dehumidifiers: Closets and storage areas can get humid, which invites mildew to settle in. Dehumidifiers or silica gel packets are excellent for preventing musty smells in stored clothing.
- Frequent Cleaning: Regular cleaning keeps mildew smells in check and prevents odors from setting in deeply.
- Avoid Overloading the Washer: Overloading the washing machine prevents thorough cleaning and rinsing, which can leave behind odors.
FAQ
Can mildew smell be washed out of clothes?
Yes! Mildew smell can be washed out using simple remedies like vinegar, baking soda, or oxygen bleach. These are some of the best methods for deodorizing clothing and are effective for anyone learning how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes.
How long should clothes soak in vinegar to remove mildew smells?
About 30 minutes should do the trick. Using vinegar to remove mildew odor is one of the easiest and most effective solutions.
Why do my clothes still smell like mildew after washing them?
If the smell lingers, the clothes might not have been dried thoroughly or the mildew is deeply set in the fabric. Re-wash them with stronger deodorizing agents like vinegar or baking soda, and ensure they’re completely dry before storing.
Wrapping Up
Now that you know how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes, it’s time to take action! From vinegar to lemon juice, these remedies are effective, affordable, and easy to implement. By following these tips, you can remove musty odor from fabric and ensure your clothes smell fresh and feel great to wear.
Don’t let mildew ruin your wardrobe—take charge today and enjoy the confidence of crisp, clean clothes! Check out more laundry care tips and premium services at Bubble Bliss Laundromat for a fresh and hassle-free experience.
