By Lifetips
Have you noticed a musty, damp smell lingering on your clothes after a wash? That unpleasant mildew odor is more common than you might think, especially in damp and warm environments. Whether it’s from leaving clothes too long in the washing machine or wet gym wear tucked away in your laundry basket, mildew can quickly settle in. The good news is, there are simple and effective ways to remove mildew smell from clothes and keep them fresh. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of how to get mildew smell out of clothes, and how to avoid it in the future.
Why Does My Clothes Smell Like Mildew?
Mildew growth on fabric happens when clothes are left damp for too long. In moist, warm conditions, mildew thrives, leaving behind a musty odor and often white or greyish spots on fabrics. This happens when laundry gets trapped in the washing machine for too long, or when wet clothes are thrown into a laundry basket before properly drying. Essentially, it’s a fungus problem – and mildew loves the dark, damp environment of your laundry.
Essential Pre-Treatments to Remove Mildew Odor
Before you toss your mildew-smelling clothes into the washing machine, you’ll want to treat them to ensure the odor is fully removed. Here are a few treatments that work wonders:
- White Vinegar: White vinegar is a mild acid that can break down mildew and neutralize the smell. Simply mix one cup of vinegar with water and apply it directly to the stained areas. Let it sit for 15 minutes before washing.
- Bleach: If your fabric is bleach-safe, it’s one of the most effective ways to kill mildew. Be careful with this, as it can cause colors to fade. Dilute bleach with water (check the label for guidance) and soak your clothes for a few minutes.
- Borax: Known for its mold-fighting properties, borax is a great mildew treatment. Add a few tablespoons to water, soak your clothes for an hour, and then wash as usual.
How to Wash Clothes with Mildew Smell Effectively
Once your clothes have been pre-treated, it’s time to wash them. Use the highest temperature setting allowed by the care label of your garment. Mildew doesn’t like hot water, and the heat will help kill the fungus. Use a high-quality detergent, such as Persil, to help eliminate the smell.
For tough mildew, you may need to run a second wash cycle. Don’t forget to check the clothes for any lingering odor before drying.
How to Prevent Mildew on Clothes in the Future
The best way to deal with mildew is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Here are a few simple habits to adopt to keep your clothes mildew-free:
- Don’t Leave Wet Clothes in the Washer: As soon as the wash cycle finishes, take your clothes out to dry. Leaving them damp inside the washer creates an ideal environment for mildew growth.
- Dry Clothes Promptly: Hang wet clothes outside to dry or use a dryer. Make sure to check the care label to ensure your clothes are dryer-safe.
- Allow Clothes to Air Before Storing: Never store wet or damp clothes in your laundry hamper. Let them dry completely before putting them away.
Best Products for Removing Mildew from Fabric
There are several commercial products available for removing mildew and odor from clothes. Here are some top-rated options:
- Mildew Removers: Specially formulated mildew removers can be sprayed directly onto fabrics before washing.
- Oxygen Bleach: A gentler alternative to chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach helps eliminate mildew while being safe for most fabrics.
- Fabric Fresheners: After removing the mildew, using fabric fresheners can keep your clothes smelling fresh and prevent future mildew issues.
