Banishing those icky, musty smells is easier than you think.
If you’re sniffing the air for the source of amysterious musty smell, we have some bad news.
It may be coming from your clothes.
Credit: Getty Images
Don’t worry, saving your favorite outfit is easier than you think.
What Causes Musty Smells In Clothes?
Mildew and musty smells can occur in clothes in even the most fastidious of households.
According to Zinna, that last one is particularly important.
“Invisible body soils are one of the leading causes of laundry odor.
In fact, much of the soils on your towels are invisible body soils.Another culprit?
Leaving clothes in the hamper too long, especially ifthey’re damp.
What Is Mildew Vs.
So what exactly is growing on your clothes?
Some people experience hay-fever like symptoms, skin rash, or even asthma when exposed to mold.
How Do You Get Musty Mildew Smells Out of Clothes?
Sometimes life doesn’t go as planned.
you’re free to still get those unpleasant smells out of your clothes.
Zinna says all you need is a heavy-duty laundry detergent.
In most cases, washing as usual with a quality heavy-duty detergent will remove the mildew smell.
How Does Hard Water Affect Laundry?
How Can You Prevent Mildew In Clothes?
Don’t allow piles of dirty, sweaty clothes and damp towels to accumulate in the hamper.
Also, be sure to remove your clothes from the washing machine as soon as it’s finished running.
Should You Wash Your Washing Machine?
It’s also a good idea to clean yourstinky washing machineonce a month.
Check the manufacturer’s directions for your washing machine since many units have cleaning cycles.
She also recommends removing the dispenser tray and rinsing it clean with hot water.
2021;87(14).
doi:10.1128/AEM.03002-20
University of Missouri Extension.How to prevent and remove mildew–home methods.
Environmental Protection Agency.What is the difference between mold and mildew?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Basic Facts about Mold and Dampness.
