Causes of Musty Smell in Clothes
Before we discuss how to get rid of the musty smell, it is essential to understand the causes of the musty smell in clothes. The musty smell is caused by mold and mildew that grow in damp and humid conditions. Clothes that are stored in a damp place or left wet for an extended period can develop mold and mildew, causing them to smell musty.
How to Get the Musty Smell Out of Clothes
Now that we understand the causes of the musty smell let’s discuss how to get rid of it. 1. Wash the Clothes: The first step to get rid of the musty smell is to wash the clothes thoroughly. Use a good quality detergent and hot water to wash the clothes. Hot water helps kill the mold and mildew, which is causing the musty smell. 2. Add Vinegar: Adding vinegar to the wash cycle can also help get rid of the musty smell. Add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle along with the detergent. Vinegar helps remove the odor-causing bacteria and also acts as a natural fabric softener. 3. Use Baking Soda: Baking soda is another effective way to get rid of the musty smell. Add half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle along with the detergent. Baking soda helps neutralize the odor and also softens the fabric. 4. Sun Dry the Clothes: Sun drying the clothes is an effective way to get rid of the musty smell. Hang the clothes outside in the sun for a few hours. The sun helps kill the bacteria and also removes the odor. 5. Use Dryer Sheets: If you prefer to use a dryer, add a few dryer sheets to the cycle. Dryer sheets help remove the odor and also leave the clothes smelling fresh. 6. Use Odor Eliminating Products: There are several odor eliminating products available in the market that can help get rid of the musty smell. Follow the instructions on the product carefully and use it as directed.
FAQs
Q. How can I prevent my clothes from smelling musty?
A. To prevent your clothes from smelling musty, make sure to store them in a dry and well-ventilated place. Avoid storing wet clothes in a closed container or bag.
Q. Can I use bleach to get rid of the musty smell?
A. Bleach can be used to get rid of the musty smell, but it is not recommended for colored clothes. Bleach can cause discoloration and damage the fabric.
Q. How often should I wash my clothes to prevent them from smelling musty?
A. It is recommended to wash your clothes at least once a week to prevent them from smelling musty.
Conclusion
Getting rid of the musty smell from clothes can be a challenging task, but with a few simple tips and tricks, you can have fresh-smelling clothes again. Remember to store your clothes in a dry and well-ventilated place and avoid storing wet clothes in a closed container or bag. Follow the tips mentioned in this article to get rid of the musty smell and keep your clothes smelling fresh.