We’ve all been there—excitedly pulling a clean shirt out of the closet, only to be greeted by a smell that screams, “I’ve been locked in a damp dungeon for centuries.” That, my friends, is the dreaded mildew smell. If you’re wondering how to get the mildew smell out of clothes, you’re not alone. It’s a common issue, but luckily, it’s one that can be solved without having to resort to burning your wardrobe and starting over.
Mildew thrives in damp, warm environments, which makes your washing machine, laundry basket, and even your closet the perfect breeding grounds for this musty menace. But fear not! Whether your clothes have been left in the washer too long, stored in a humid closet, or simply absorbed that mysterious old house smell, we’ve got solutions. Let’s dive into the best ways to kick that mildew smell to the curb.
Understanding the Cause: Why Do Clothes Smell Like Mildew?
Before we fight the funk, let’s understand what we’re dealing with. Mildew is a type of fungus that thrives in damp conditions. The most common reasons for musty-smelling clothes include:
- Leaving laundry in the washing machine too long. We’ve all done it. Some of us have done it multiple times in a row.
- Drying clothes improperly. Damp clothes in a dark closet create the perfect home for mildew.
- Storing clothes in a humid space. Basements are for horror movies, not sweaters.
- A dirty washing machine. If it smells, your clothes will too.
Now that we know the enemy, let’s talk about how to eliminate it.
Quick Fixes to Remove Mildew Smell
If your clothes have only a slight mildew odor, you may be able to freshen them up without a full-blown rescue mission. Here are some simple solutions:
Air-Drying in the Sun
Sunlight is nature’s best deodorizer. Hang your musty clothes outside and let UV rays work their magic. The fresh air will help whisk away odors, and as a bonus, your laundry will smell like sunshine instead of sadness.
White Vinegar or Lemon Juice Soak
Both vinegar and lemon juice are acidic, which means they neutralize mildew odors instead of just masking them.
- Mix equal parts water and vinegar or lemon juice and soak the affected clothes for about 30 minutes. Then, wash as usual.
- Vinegar also softens fabric and removes detergent buildup. Plus, it makes you feel like a mad scientist.
Baking Soda Wash
Baking soda is the unsung hero of home cleaning. It absorbs odors, fights stains, and makes you feel like you’re doing something fancy in the laundry room.
- Add one cup of baking soda to your wash cycle along with detergent. If the smell is extra stubborn, soak the clothes in water with baking soda for an hour before washing.
Vodka Spray
Yes, vodka. But before you get too excited, this is for your clothes—not your evening cocktail. Vodka kills bacteria and dries without leaving a scent.
- Mix three parts vodka with one part water in a spray bottle and lightly mist your smelly clothes. Let them air out. If laundry makes you miserable, you can also take a sip.
Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Mildew Odors
If your clothes have been marinating in mildew for a while, you may need a more intense treatment.
Borax and Oxygen Bleach Treatment
Borax and oxygen bleach are powerhouses for killing mildew spores.
- Add half a cup of borax to your washing machine along with your regular detergent. For a deeper clean, soak clothes in a tub with warm water and borax for an hour before washing.
Hot Water Wash vs. Cold Water
Hot water is more effective at killing mildew, but check your clothing labels first—if it says “cold water only,” don’t tempt fate. Unless you enjoy turning your favorite sweater into a doll-sized crop top.
Clean Your Washing Machine
A dirty washer means dirty clothes, no matter how much detergent you use.
- Run an empty cycle with two cups of vinegar or a washing machine cleaner. Wipe the rubber seal and detergent drawer, as mold and mildew love to hide there.
How to Prevent Mildew Smell in Clothes
The best offense is a good defense. Keep mildew at bay with these prevention tips:
- Dry Clothes Thoroughly – Always make sure clothes are completely dry before storing them. Slightly damp means slightly doomed.
- Store Clothes Properly – Use breathable fabric bins instead of plastic bags, and add moisture-absorbing packets.
- Use Essential Oils – A few drops of lavender or tea tree oil in the wash can keep clothes smelling fresh.
- Don’t Overload the Washer – Overstuffed loads don’t get properly cleaned or dried, leading to trapped moisture. Your washing machine is not a clown car—give clothes some space.
Final Thoughts
No one wants to walk around smelling like a forgotten basement. The good news is that whether it’s a simple air-dry or a deep-cleaning mission, there are plenty of ways to get the mildew smell out of clothes. Just remember: Prevention is key, and a little extra care can save you from ever having to Google this problem again.
And if you’d rather not deal with the hassle at all, you can always turn to Denver Cleaning Services for a professional touch. Because life’s too short to spend it sniffing your own shirts in confusion.
