Getting Rid of Musty Smells with Vinegar and Baking Soda During Laundry and Towel Drying
Let’s face it, there’s nothing more unpleasant than pulling clean laundry out of the dryer, only to find that it smells musty and stale. This can happen due to a variety of reasons such as leaving wet laundry in the machine for too long, storing damp towels, or even just living in a humid environment. The good news is, getting rid of musty smells in laundry is actually quite simple and can be achieved with just a few household items.
The two main ingredients to tackle musty smells are vinegar and baking soda. Both of these items are often found in most homes and are known for their powerful cleaning properties. Let’s take a closer look at how they can help eliminate musty odors from laundry.
Vinegar has been used for centuries as a natural cleaning agent and deodorizer. Its acidic nature helps to neutralize and eliminate odors, making it an excellent choice for tackling musty smells in laundry. When used during the washing process, vinegar can effectively break down and remove any lingering odors from clothes.
To use vinegar in the laundry, simply add one cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle of your washing machine. You can also add a few drops of essential oils for a pleasant scent. This will not only help to remove musty smells but also leave your clothes feeling soft and fresh.
Baking soda, on the other hand, is a powerful deodorizer that works by neutralizing odors rather than masking them. This makes it a great option for combating musty smells in laundry. Baking soda also has the ability to absorb excess moisture, which can contribute to musty odors.
To use baking soda in the laundry, add half a cup to a full cup of baking soda to your washing machine along with your regular laundry detergent. This will help to neutralize any odors and leave your laundry smelling fresh and clean.
Aside from using vinegar and baking soda in the wash, there are also a few other tips you can try to prevent musty smells in your laundry. Firstly, try to avoid leaving wet laundry in the machine for too long. This can lead to a buildup of bacteria and mildew, resulting in musty odors. Instead, try to transfer your load to the dryer as soon as it’s finished washing.
Another helpful tip is to thoroughly dry your towels before storing them. Oftentimes, musty smells in laundry can be attributed to damp towels being left in a hamper or folded without being completely dry. This can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow, resulting in unpleasant smells. To prevent this, make sure to fully dry your towels before putting them away. You can also add a sheet of fabric softener to the dryer for a fresh scent.
In addition to ensuring your laundry is completely dry before storing, it’s also a good idea to periodically clean your washing machine. Over time, dirt, grime, and residue can build up in the machine, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. To combat this, run an empty cycle with hot water and white vinegar once a month to deep clean your machine.
In conclusion, getting rid of musty smells in laundry can easily be achieved with vinegar and baking soda, along with a few simple tips. These household items are not only effective in neutralizing odors but also affordable and easily accessible. So the next time you notice a musty smell in your laundry, reach for these natural solutions and enjoy fresh, clean laundry every time.
