There’s nothing worse than pulling clothes out of the washer only to find they still smell musty. That unpleasant odor isn’t just “dampness”. It’s a sign that mildew has started to grow on your fabrics. Once mildew settles in, regular washing isn’t enough. You need the right methods to learn how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes so that you can stop it from returning.
What Exactly Are You Smelling When Mildew Develops?
When mildew develops, it releases microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs). These are tiny gas molecules that cling to your fabric fibers. These gases are what cause that familiar musty odor, even when your clothes look perfectly clean. The longer dampness lingers, the stronger those odor compounds become.
You don’t need fancy products when you explore how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes. Here are some cleaning techniques you can use:
- Use the optimal water temperature that is safe for your fabric. Heat helps dissolve and kill odor-causing microbes.
- Include baking soda or white vinegar to your wash cycle. Both naturally neutralize odors by breaking down MVOCs.
- Include a quality laundry detergent for a deeper clean and to lift lingering residue.
- Air-dry clothes in sunlight. The UV rays naturally disinfect and freshen fabrics.
For long-term freshness, invest in our laundry services to keep your laundry smelling fresh. You can also use our full-service laundromat for ultimate convenience whenever you need professional-grade cleaning.
Mildew Prevention Tips from the Laundry Room to Your Closet
When you’re thinking about how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes, keep in mind that preventing mildew smells isn’t just about drying clothes quickly. It’s about controlling moisture and maintaining your laundry setup.
How to Keep Your Washing Machine Clean
Your washer can be a hidden source of mildew. Focus on the following:
- Wipe dry the rubber gasket after every load to prevent moisture buildup.
- Remove and rinse the detergent drawer monthly to clear residue.
- Run a hot empty cycle with vinegar once a month to flush hidden grime inside the drum and filter.
Tips to Handle Damp Clothes the Right Way
When you can’t wash damp items right away, don’t trap them in closed bags. Instead:
- Air out gym wear or swimsuits immediately after use.
- Hang them in a ventilated space until you can wash them.
- Avoid sealed hampers because airflow keeps mildew from forming.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do my clothes still smell like mildew after washing?
That might be because odor-causing microbes can stay inside the fibers or the washing machine. It would be better if you wash with vinegar or a washer cleaner to remove them completely.
2. How can I prevent mildew smell in stored clothes?
Keep clothes fully dry before storage, and use dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers in closets to prevent humidity buildup.
3. What’s the best natural way to remove mildew smell from clothes?
White vinegar or baking soda works best. Both neutralize odor and break down microbial buildup without harming fabrics.
Conclusion
At Bubbles Laundry, we offer laundry services designed to simplify your life and free up your precious time. Whether it’s stubborn odors or weekly laundry, our care ensures your clothes come back clean, soft, and fresh. Schedule your laundry pickup from us today so that you don’t have to worry about how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes.
