The social calendar fills up fast during the warmer months. Between Christmas parties, entertaining, and relatives coming to stay, you have so much to do and so little time. The last thing you need is a pile of fresh-from-the-wash clothes that smell musty instead of clean.
That damp, unpleasant smell on clothes often comes from mould and bacteria growth, which thrives on trapped moisture. In Australia, high humidity and fast-paced summer days can make it tricky to get your laundry perfectly dry before that musty odour sets in.
Fortunately, you can use several simple steps to keep your summer wardrobe smelling fresh.
Key causes of damp smells
To effectively stop your clothes from smelling damp, you need to know why it happens in the first place. The main culprits are trapped moisture, mould growth, and poor ventilation. When moisture gets trapped in your garments, it creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, leading to that musty scent.
Here are the most common reasons your washing might smell a bit off:
- Leaving wet clothes too long: Do not let wet clothes sit in the washing machine or a laundry basket for long periods. This allows moisture to become trapped and fosters bacterial growth.
- Overloading the machine: When you overfill the washer, water and detergent cannot circulate properly, preventing a thorough clean. Try to fill the drum only three-quarters full.
- Improper drying: If clothes are not fully dried, the leftover moisture can cause musty smells or even mould growth.
- Washing machine build-up: Your machine can harbour mildew and mould, which can transfer to your clothes, especially if you do not dry it out between uses.
Washing and drying techniques for freshness
You can take simple steps during the washing and drying process to prevent that annoying damp smell.
In the wash
- Act fast: Transfer your clothes to the line or dryer within 30 minutes of the wash cycle finishing. Set a reminder if you need to.
- Use the right detergent: Choose a detergent that is formulated to tackle odours. However, use the correct amount, too much detergent leaves a residue that traps dirt and odours.
- Boost your load: If clothes already smell, re-wash them with a half-cup of baking soda or a cup of white vinegar added to the wash with your detergent. These are natural deodorisers that can eliminate smells and bacteria. Vinegar can also act as a natural fabric softener.
- Extra spin: Give your clothes an extra rinse or spin cycle to remove excess water before you hang them.
Drying your clothes
Thorough drying is essential for avoiding musty odours.
- Optimise airflow: If you are drying clothes indoors, use a fan or open a window to circulate air. Spread the clothes out on the line or airer to allow air to flow freely around each item, which speeds up drying.
- Dry completely: Ensure clothes are completely dry before you fold and store them. Even slightly damp clothes will develop a musty smell.
Keep your machine clean
Make sure your washing machine is not the source of the odour.
- Monthly clean: Clean your machine every 30-90 days. Run an empty, long, hot water cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar.
- Air it out: Leave the door or lid open between washes to allow the machine to air out and dry completely, preventing mildew growth.
- Wipe down: Regularly wipe down the rubber gasket, especially on front-loaders, as water can pool there.
Take a load off with The Laundry Lady
Battling piles of sweaty beach towels, damp kids’ washing, and mountains of regular laundry can feel overwhelming, especially when your social calendar is already jam-packed. You want to spend more time relaxing, maybe lounging by the pool, and less time sorting and mopping floors.
For an easy and affordable solution, try a professional laundry service like The Laundry Lady.
- Convenience: The Laundry Lady offers a reliable pickup and delivery service right across Australia.
- Next-day service: Book online, and we will collect your towels, bedding, and clothing direct from your door, returning them freshly laundered the very next day.
- Wash, fold, or ironing service: This professional, reliable service includes wash, fold, and ironing service options. It is a handy way to get your home ready for the busy festive season, ensuring you have fresh towels and bedding for guests without the stress.
- Recurring bookings: You can even schedule a regular pickup, taking a load (or several!) off your mind.
Spend more time enjoying your summer and less time worrying about that damp laundry near me! To see if The Laundry Lady is available in your area and to book your next-day service, check out the Service Areas page or enter your suburb on the home page.
