11 Nov Quick Guide to Dealing with Common Smells in Your Laundry

Laundry is meant to leave your clothes feeling clean and smelling fresh, but what happens when unpleasant odours persist? Smelly laundry can ruin your day, whether it’s a musty towel, a sweaty shirt, or clothes that don’t smell clean despite being freshly washed. This guide will help you identify the causes of smelly laundry, provide actionable tips to tackle the issue and share preventative measures for dealing with smells in the laundry.

Dealing with Smells in the Laundry: Why Does Laundry Smell Bad?

Before jumping to solutions, let’s explore the most common reasons behind smelly laundry:

1. A Dirty Washing Machine: Over time, detergent residue, dirt, and even mould can build up inside your washing machine. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which transfer odours to your clothes.
2. Damp Clothes: Leaving wet clothes in the washer for too long is one of the quickest ways to encourage mould and mildew growth, which can lead to a sour, musty smell.
3. Improper Detergent Use: Too much detergent can leave residue, while too little may not clean the clothes effectively. Both scenarios can result in smelly laundry.
4. Hard Water Issues: Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that can bind to fabric, trapping dirt and odours in your clothes.
5. Residual Odours in Fabrics: Certain fabrics, especially synthetic ones like polyester and nylon, tend to hold onto sweat and body odour even after washing.
6. Inadequate Drying: Clothes that don’t dry properly—either in the dryer or when air drying—can develop a damp, sour smell.

Tips for Dealing with Smells in the Laundry

Here are tried-and-tested strategies to combat odours in your laundry:

1. Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly

A clean washing machine is essential for fresh-smelling clothes. Here’s how to clean it effectively:

• Monthly Maintenance: Run an empty cycle with hot water, a cup of white vinegar, or a washing machine cleaner to remove detergent buildup and kill bacteria.
• Target Problem Areas: Remove and clean the detergent drawer and scrub around the rubber seals, where grime often accumulates.
• Let It Air Out: After each wash, open the machine door to allow the drum to dry and prevent mould growth.

2. Pre-treat odours and Stains

Some smells need extra attention before the wash cycle. Follow these pre-treatment methods:

• Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water to create a paste and apply it to areas prone to sweat or odours, such as underarms or collars.
• Vinegar Soak: For heavily soiled or smelly clothes, soak them in a solution of one part vinegar to four parts water for 30 minutes before washing.
• Commercial Odour Eliminators: Use laundry additives to neutralise odours, especially for athletic wear or towels.

3. Use the Right Detergent and Settings

Choosing the correct detergent and washer settings can make all the difference:

• Odour-Fighting Detergents: Look for detergents designed to remove odours, especially if you frequently wash workout clothes.
• Cold vs Hot Water: While cold water saves energy and preserves fabric, hot water kills bacteria and removes stubborn odours.
• Avoid Overloading: Overloading your washer prevents clothes from being cleaned and rinsed thoroughly. Stick to recommended load sizes.

4. Incorporate Natural Deodorisers

Sometimes, your laundry needs an extra boost to smell fresh:

• Baking Soda: Add half a cup of baking soda to your laundry to neutralise odours.
• White Vinegar: Pour one cup of white vinegar into the fabric softener dispenser. It helps eliminate smells while softening fabrics.
• Essential Oils: For a naturally fresh scent, add a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender or tea tree, to your detergent.

5. Dry Clothes Properly

Proper drying is essential to prevent lingering smells:

• Use High Heat When Possible: For towels and bedding, use a high-heat dryer setting to ensure they’re fully dry.
• Air Dry Strategically: If air drying, hang clothes in a well-ventilated area or outside in the sun, which naturally kills odour-causing bacteria.
• Check for Dampness: Always check clothes before storing them. Even slightly damp items can develop mildew in your closet.

6. Dealing with Specific Smelly Items

Certain types of laundry may need special attention:

• Towels: Wash with hot water and add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to remove musty smells. Avoid using too much fabric softener, as it can trap odours.
• Athletic Wear: Use a sports detergent designed for synthetic fabrics and always air-dry immediately after wearing.
• Baby Clothes: Pre-soak soiled baby clothes in a mild detergent or vinegar solution to remove any lingering smells.

Preventative Measures to Keep Laundry Smelling Fresh

Taking preventative measures can save you time and frustration:

• Don’t Delay Laundry: Wash dirty clothes regularly to prevent odours from setting in.
• Proper Storage: Store dirty laundry in a breathable basket or hamper to allow airflow. Avoid plastic hampers that trap moisture.
• Control Humidity: In damp environments, use a dehumidifier to prevent mildew.
• Freshen Between Washes: To keep your clothes smelling fresh, add sachets of dried lavender or cedarwood blocks to your wardrobe.
• Maintain Your Washer: Regularly inspect and clean your washing machine to prevent buildup and odours.

NeatEx Professional Laundry Services for Stubborn Odours

Sometimes, no matter how much effort you put into your laundry routine, certain smells won’t go away. That’s where NeatEx Professional Laundry Services in London can help.

At NeatEx, we use advanced cleaning techniques and professional-grade products to remove even the toughest odours. Whether it’s musty towels, sweat-stained athletic gear, or delicate fabrics requiring special care, we ensure your laundry comes back smelling fresher than ever.

Why Choose NeatEx?

• Specialised odour-removal treatments
• Eco-friendly cleaning solutions
• Convenient pickup and delivery services
• Expert handling of all fabric types

Don’t let stubborn odours ruin your clothes. Contact NeatEx today for professional laundry care you can trust!

Final Thoughts

Dealing with laundry smells doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right techniques, consistent maintenance, and professional help when needed, you can ensure your clothes smell fresh and clean every time.

Are you struggling with lingering odours in your laundry? Let NeatEx Professional Laundry Services handle it for you. Contact us today and experience the difference!