How to Get the Damp Smell Out of Clothes
There’s nothing nicer than putting on a woolly jumper on a cold winter’s day…unless that jumper has that damp, mouldy smell that always seems to linger after a rainy week.
Damp smells in clothes are a common issue, especially in areas with high humidity, poor ventilation, or if laundry is left damp for too long. These smells are usually caused by the growth of mould, mildew, or bacteria, which thrive in damp conditions. When moisture is trapped in fabrics, it creates an environment where these microorganisms can grow, producing that characteristic musty or sour smell.
Understanding what causes these damp smells in clothes can help you find effective solutions to eliminate them.
What Causes a Damp Smell?
Before we can fix damp smells in our clothes, we have to understand why that smell exists to begin with. Here are a few common reasons:
1. Mould and Mildew Growth
The most common cause of damp smells in clothes is mould and mildew growth. When clothes are left damp in a washing machine or laundry basket for an extended period, they provide the perfect environment for mould and mildew to thrive. These fungi feed on organic material found in fabrics, and as they grow, they release a musty odour that can cling to your clothes even after washing. Mould and mildew can be particularly persistent in areas like the underarms of shirts or the seams of towels, where moisture may be trapped for longer periods.
2. High Humidity and Poor Ventilation
High humidity levels in your home or laundry area can exacerbate the damp smell in clothes. In places with poor ventilation, moisture can linger in the air, making it difficult for damp clothes to dry properly. Without airflow, the moisture trapped in fabrics does not evaporate efficiently, which promotes the growth of bacteria and fungi. This results in the development of a damp, musty smell that can be tough to eliminate.
3. Leaving Clothes in the Washer Too Long
One of the most common mistakes people make is leaving damp clothes in the washing machine for too long after a wash cycle. When clothes sit in the washer for several hours or overnight, the moisture can cause the growth of bacteria and mildew. This is especially true for synthetic fabrics like polyester, which retain moisture more than natural fibers. The longer clothes sit, the stronger the damp smell becomes, and it may require multiple washes to remove the odour completely.
4. Overloading the Washer
Overloading your washing machine can prevent clothes from getting properly washed and rinsed, which can lead to lingering dampness. When the washer is too full, clothes don’t have enough room to agitate, which results in them being inadequately cleaned and rinsed. As a result, moisture may remain trapped in the fabric, contributing to damp smells. Additionally, if detergent is not thoroughly rinsed out, it can combine with the moisture in the fabric and create an unpleasant odour.
5. Not Drying Clothes Properly
Improper drying is another major cause of damp smells in clothes. If clothes are left to air dry in a humid environment or not dried thoroughly in a dryer, they may retain moisture and develop a musty smell. Even after washing, if clothes are not dried completely, the leftover moisture allows bacteria and fungi to proliferate, leading to the characteristic damp smell. Clothes that are hung in poorly ventilated areas, such as small bathrooms or closets, are particularly prone to developing this issue.
6. Clothing Fabric
The type of fabric in your clothes can also play a role in how susceptible they are to damp smells. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, tend to trap moisture more than natural fibers like cotton, wool, or linen. These synthetic fabrics are slower to dry and can retain moisture for longer periods, making them more likely to develop a musty smell. On the other hand, natural fibers tend to breathe better and allow moisture to evaporate more efficiently, reducing the chances of odour development.
7. Residual Detergent or Fabric Softener
Sometimes, the cause of a damp smell in clothes is not mould or mildew, but leftover detergent or fabric softener. If too much detergent is used, or if it isn’t thoroughly rinsed out during the wash cycle, it can build up in the fabric. When this detergent residue combines with moisture, it can create a sour, musty smell. This is more common in high-efficiency washers, where less water is used during the rinse cycle, and detergent can remain trapped in the clothes.
8. Dirty or Damp Laundry Baskets
If your laundry basket is damp or not cleaned regularly, it can transfer that smell to your clothes. A damp laundry basket can create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mould, which then infest your freshly laundered clothes. It’s essential to keep your laundry baskets dry and clean to avoid transferring unwanted odours to your clothes.
9. Improper Storage
Storing clothes in damp or humid conditions, such as in a basement or closet without proper airflow, can lead to the development of a damp smell. Even if clothes are washed and dried, storing them in a musty or wet environment can cause them to pick up the smell of mildew. It’s important to store clothes in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent them from absorbing moisture from the surrounding environment.
10. Contaminated Water Supply
In some cases, the source of the damp smell in clothes could be the water used for washing. If your water supply is contaminated with minerals, bacteria, or other impurities, it can cause your clothes to retain a foul smell. Hard water, in particular, can leave mineral deposits in fabrics, making it more difficult to remove detergent residues and other odours.
How to Get Rid of Damp Smell in Clothes
To get rid of the damp smell in clothes, it’s essential to address the underlying causes and take the right steps to clean and dry your clothes properly. Here are some effective methods:
1. Wash Clothes Thoroughly
If your clothes have a damp smell, start by washing them thoroughly with a good-quality detergent. For added freshness, consider using an odour-eliminating product like Sassy Scents’ Odour Eliminating Fabric Spray, which is designed to neutralise unwanted smells and leave your clothes smelling fresh. Ensure that your washing machine is not overloaded to allow clothes to be washed and rinsed properly. If the smell persists, repeat the wash cycle.
2. Use White Vinegar or Baking Soda
White vinegar is a natural deodoriser and can help remove the musty smell from clothes. Add one cup of white vinegar to your washing machine during the rinse cycle to break down the odour-causing bacteria and mildew. Alternatively, you can add half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle to neutralise the smell and brighten your clothes.
3. Dry Clothes Properly
Once your clothes are washed, make sure they are dried thoroughly. If you’re air-drying your clothes, hang them in a well-ventilated area with good airflow. Avoid hanging clothes in damp or humid spaces. Using a Sassy Scents Wax Melt in your laundry room or drying area can help freshen up the space, preventing your clothes from absorbing musty smells while they dry.
4. Use Fabric Softener or Odour Removers
Consider using a fabric softener with a pleasant scent during your wash cycle to help mask any lingering odours. For stubborn smells, Sassy Scents’ Odour Eliminating Powder can be sprinkled on your clothes before washing. This product is designed to neutralise odours and leave clothes smelling fresh. You can also use it in your laundry basket to prevent clothes from absorbing moisture or odours while waiting to be washed.
5. Store Clothes in a Dry Area
To prevent your clothes from developing a damp smell in the future, make sure they are stored in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area. Avoid storing clothes in damp basements or closets with poor airflow.
Conclusion: Getting Rid of that Damp Smell on Your Clothes
Damp smells in clothes are caused by a variety of factors, including mould, mildew, humidity, poor ventilation, and improper washing and drying. To get rid of the odour, it’s essential to wash your clothes thoroughly, use effective odour-removal techniques, and dry them properly.
Products like Sassy Scents’ Odour Eliminating Fabric Spray, Wax Melts, and Odour Eliminating Powder can help eliminate lingering damp smells and leave your clothes smelling fresh and clean. By following these steps and maintaining a dry, well-ventilated environment, you can prevent damp smells from returning and keep your clothes smelling great.
Shop our range of odour-eliminating products today!