How to Make Laundry Smell Good

Few things rival the joy of slipping into freshly laundered clothes or sinking into a bed with fragrant sheets. But achieving that level of freshness can feel elusive, especially when battling stubborn odours or washing machine mishaps. This guide will walk you through practical, effective ways to make your laundry smell delightful—from simple tweaks in your washing routine to the strategic use of innovative odour-eliminating products.

Why Laundry Doesn’t Always Smell Fresh

Before jumping into solutions, let’s identify some common reasons laundry might not smell as fresh as you’d like:

• Mildew in the Washing Machine: Over time, detergent residue and moisture can lead to mould or mildew buildup.

• Improper Washing: Overloading the machine or using too much detergent can result in clothes that aren’t thoroughly rinsed.

• Persistent Odours: Sweat, smoke, or food smells can cling stubbornly to certain fabrics, especially synthetics.

• Damp Drying Conditions: Leaving wet laundry in the machine or drying items insufficiently can lead to a musty smell.

You have to tackle these issues before you can enjoy the freshest-smelling clothes and towels on the block. 

Step 1: Start With a Clean Washing Machine

A clean washing machine is essential for fresh laundry. Over time, detergent residue and grime can accumulate, affecting both the machine’s performance and the scent of your clothes.

How to Clean It:

• Run a hot water cycle with white vinegar or a store-bought washing machine cleaner.

• Wipe down the rubber seal and drum with a damp cloth to remove residue.

• Leave the machine door open after each cycle to promote airflow and prevent mildew.

For an extra boost, consider using a multi-purpose odour-eliminating powder to keep your washing machine fresh over time. Sassy Scents’ Oudh-er Remover Odour Eliminating Multi-Purpose Powder isn’t just for fabrics—sprinkle it in your machine’s drum to neutralise odours and leave it smelling fresh and fragrant. Its vegan, cruelty-free formula is safe for all machines and includes powerful odour-eliminating technology.

Step 2: Choose Your Products Wisely

The products you use can make or break the scent of your laundry. Beyond the detergent aisle, there are plenty of options to elevate your laundry game.

• Use a detergent that is not only effective at cleaning but also contains a fragrance you love. Be cautious about using too much detergent—it can leave residue, dulling scents.

• Pair your detergent with a fabric conditioner to add a layer of softness and fragrance.

Odour-neutralising products can help tackle especially stubborn smells in fabrics. Some fabric sprays and powders are designed to eliminate, rather than mask, odours while leaving a subtle fragrance behind. These can be particularly effective for pre-treating gym clothes or pet bedding.

When regular products just won’t cut it, upgrade your laundry routine with Sassy Scents’ Odour Eliminating Room & Fabric Spray. With fragrances like Clean Refresh and Girl Boss Infusion, you can enjoy up to 48 hours of odour-free freshness. Simply spray on clothes before washing for an extra boost of scent.

Step 3: Perfect Your Washing Routine

Even the best products can’t do their job if the basics aren’t right. Small changes in how you wash your clothes can have a big impact on how they smell.

Hot water can help remove odours caused by bacteria, but it isn’t suitable for all fabrics. Use warm or cold water for delicates and synthetics. Don’t overload your machine. Clothes need room to move for thorough cleaning. If your machine is packed too tightly, detergent and water won’t distribute evenly.

For odour-prone fabrics like gym gear, pre-soak them in a solution of Sweet Blooms Odour Eliminating Powder. Its fun, fruity fragrance is a delightful bonus!

Step 4: Get Drying Right

Drying laundry properly is crucial to locking in freshness and avoiding unwanted odours.

Drying clothes outdoors not only gives them a fresh scent but also lets sunlight act as a natural deodoriser. Dryer sheets or wool dryer balls with a few drops of essential oil can infuse your laundry with fragrance. You can also give clothes a quick spritz of fabric spray after they’ve dried to add a finishing touch of fragrance.

Step 5: Keep It Fresh Over Time

Making laundry smell amazing doesn’t end when the clothes come out of the dryer. Store clean laundry in cool, dry spaces with good airflow. You can also fold and store clothes with sachets of Oudh-er Remover Wax Melts. Their 50% stronger fragrance formula ensures your wardrobe stays fresh.

Use complementary scents in your detergent, fabric conditioner, and storage solutions to create a cohesive fragrance profile for your laundry.

Special Scenarios: Tackling Tough Odours

Gym Clothes

Sweat and synthetic fabrics are a tough combination. Pre-soak gym clothes in a solution of warm water and a gentle odour-neutralising powder. This extra step can break down odour-causing bacteria before washing.

Pet Bedding

Pet odours can be particularly stubborn. A light sprinkle of an odour-neutralising powder before washing can work wonders. Follow up with an extra rinse cycle to ensure no residue remains.

Musty Towels

To revive musty towels, wash them on a hot cycle with white vinegar (instead of detergent) to remove built-up residues. Then, run a second cycle with detergent and a fabric conditioner for fragrance.

A Final Word on Odour Elimination

When it comes to keeping laundry—and your home—smelling great, the right approach is a mix of solid washing techniques and carefully chosen products. A good odour-eliminating powder or fabric spray can be your best friend for neutralising tough smells and adding a subtle, long-lasting fragrance. Look for products with natural, biodegradable ingredients that align with your lifestyle and are safe for your family and pets.

With these steps, you’ll be on your way to laundry that smells so good it turns heads. Whether it’s the scent of crisp cotton or something sweet and floral, your freshly laundered clothes and linens will elevate your daily routines with a touch of luxury.

Need inspiration? Find your favourite odour-busting scent at wearesassyscents.com. With over 7,240 glowing reviews and a Trustscore of 4.6, Sassy Scents is a game-changer for anyone looking to banish odours for good. Unlike traditional fresheners that mask smells, our Odour Eliminating Home Comfort Collection eliminates odours entirely using patented technology.

Our Wax Melts and Room & Fabric Sprays are perfect for tackling laundry issues. Whether you’re dealing with sweaty gym clothes or stale fabrics, Sassy brings freshness with flair.