How to get rid of musty odor from clothes: simple methods

Clothes that have been in the closet for an extended period often develop a noticeable unpleasant odor. However, other factors can also contribute to mustiness, such as prolonged storage in the washing machine after a wash, drying in a confined bathroom, insufficient ventilation, etc.

OBOZREVATEL presents three effective methods to eliminate musty smells from fabrics. The first step is to thoroughly clean the wardrobe.

Preventive Measures

To prevent musty odors, it is essential to wash and store clothes properly. Excessive humidity can lead to mold growth.

1. Remove all clothes from the wardrobe, wash the shelves with water and detergent or vinegar, and ventilate.
2. Remove items from the washing machine drum immediately after the wash cycle is complete.
3. Avoid hanging clothes, especially those made of thick fabrics, too tightly on the dryer. They need ventilation and fresh air to dry.

Washing with Vinegar

White vinegar serves as an effective natural disinfectant. When washing by hand, soak clothes in water with a tablespoon of vinegar. When using a washing machine, incorporate an additional rinse cycle and high-quality fabric softener to eliminate the acidic odor.

Essential Oils

Experts also recommend using essential oils, with citrus or pine scents being the best for removing musty odors. Simply add a few drops of essential oils to the water during the rinsing phase.

Powder or Liquid Products

To neutralize odors, it is preferable to use laundry detergent rather than liquid detergents. Ensure to add fabric softener or conditioner during the rinse step.

Baking Soda

Baking soda possesses deodorizing and absorbent properties. In a container, mix water, one tablespoon of laundry detergent, and three tablespoons of baking soda. Experts suggest soaking clothes for at least 20 minutes before washing them in a machine.

If mold has appeared on your clothes after extended closet storage, you can try removing it with lemon juice. This life hack is also suitable for white and light-colored clothes. You will need 2 liters of warm water, the juice of 2 lemons, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of soap. Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of this method in the article.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told you how to accurately calculate the dose of detergent so that it does not spoil the fabrics and the machine.

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