Halfway through folding your freshly washed laundry, you catch a whiff of that sour, musty, mildew funk. It’s all through your washing. This common household problem can be perplexing and frustrating. But what exactly causes this dreaded smell, and how can you effectively tackle it? We consulted several experts to uncover the root causes and solutions for musty laundry odors.
Understanding the Source of Musty Smells
The primary culprit behind musty laundry odors is microbial activity. Nathan Kilah, a senior lecturer in chemistry at the University of Tasmania, explains that these unpleasant smells are caused by microbes that thrive in damp or soiled clothing. “Microbes can reproduce in these environments, creating microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs),” Dr. Kilah notes. These compounds have distinct smells that humans can detect even at low concentrations.
Clothing left wet in a washing machine or basket provides an ideal environment for these microbes to grow, especially in warm weather. Dr. Kilah warns that this issue is more pronounced during summer or in hot climates.
The Role of Fabric Types
Maryam Naebe, a researcher in fiber science and technology at Deakin University, highlights that some fabrics are more prone to retaining odors than others. Wool, for example, is less likely to harbor musty smells due to its structure. In contrast, polyester, which repels water and traps body oils, is more susceptible to MVOCs. Cotton, notorious for taking a long time to dry, also gives microbes ample opportunity to grow.
Effective Strategies for Odor Elimination
Once your laundry has developed a musty smell, washing it again is crucial. Rebecca Van Amber, a senior lecturer at the School of Fashion and Textiles at RMIT University, insists, “There’s no way to get rid of that musty smell except to wash them again.” She suggests adding borax powder, especially for towels, and using a tablespoon of white vinegar in the fabric softener drawer to combat bad smells.
Dr. Kilah recommends checking your washing machine’s manufacturer’s instructions before using vinegar, as it is often suggested for eliminating odors from both clothes and machines. For those looking to avoid rewashing, hanging clothes outside in the sun may help reduce odors naturally.
Preventive Measures
Preventing musty odors starts with proper laundry practices. Dr. Kilah emphasizes the importance of ventilation, advising that laundry should be removed from the washing machine and hung to dry as soon as possible. “Get them out and get them dry,” he advises.
Ensuring complete drying is especially important in humid conditions, according to Dr. Naebe. Additionally, the cleanliness of your washing machine can impact odor development. Residue from soaps and fabric softeners can create a biofilm, providing a habitat for microbes.
“Cold-cycle washes are less likely to kill the microbes,” Dr. Kilah explains, suggesting that occasional hot wash cycles and switching to powdered detergents, which often contain peroxide, can help combat persistent odors.
The Debate on Scented Products
While it might be tempting to use scented detergents and fabric softeners to mask unpleasant odors, Dr. Kilah cautions that these products may not address the underlying cause. “Scents and perfumes come down to personal preference,” Dr. Van Amber adds, noting that some people are sensitive to strong smells, which can sometimes exacerbate the problem.
Ultimately, understanding the science behind musty odors and implementing effective washing and drying practices can help keep your laundry smelling fresh. By addressing the root causes and taking preventive measures, you can ensure that your clothes remain free from unwanted smells.
As the battle against musty laundry odors continues, these expert insights provide practical solutions to a common household issue, offering peace of mind and fresher clothes.
