How to Keep Laundry Smelling Fresh​

January 22, 2025

There is nothing quite like the smell of freshly laundered clothes. The scent of clean laundry can be calming and comforting, bringing a sense of cleanliness and freshness to your home.


Do you ever pull your clothes out of the laundry only to find they don't smell as fresh as you'd like? It's a common issue that can be frustrating, but there are simple solutions on how to keep laundry smelling fresh​. In this blog post, we'll share some easy tips and tricks to ensure your clothes always smell great when you pull them out of the dryer. Say goodbye to musty clothes and hello to fresh, clean laundry every time!


Use a high-quality detergent

One of the best ways to keep laundry smelling fresh is to use a high-quality detergent. Choose a detergent with a pleasant scent that will leave your laundry smelling fresh long after it's been washed. This will help ensure that your clothes come out of the wash smelling clean and fresh.


It is important to follow the instructions on the detergent packaging to ensure that you are using the correct amount for your laundry load size. Using too much detergent can leave a residue on your clothes that can cause them to smell musty


Use fabric softener or dryer sheets

Fabric softener or dryer sheets are a great way to keep laundry smelling fresh and fragrant. Simply add a capful of fabric softener to the washing machine during the rinse cycle, or toss a dryer sheet into the dryer with your laundry. The fabric softener will leave clothes feeling soft and smelling wonderful, while the dryer sheet will help to reduce static cling and add a pleasant scent to your clothes. Your laundry will come out smelling fresh and clean every time!


Add baking soda or vinegar

To keep laundry smelling fresh, you can add baking soda or vinegar to your wash cycle.


1. Baking Soda: Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your laundry detergent before starting the wash cycle. Baking soda helps neutralize odors and can also act as a fabric softener.


2. Vinegar: Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar to the fabric softener dispenser or directly to the wash cycle.
Vinegar helps eliminate bacteria and odors, leaving your laundry smelling fresh and clean.


You can also add a few drops of essential oils to your laundry detergent for a natural and pleasant scent. Some popular choices for laundry include lavender, lemon, and eucalyptus.


Dry clothes outside

One way to keep laundry smelling fresh is by drying your clothes outside. Hanging your clothes on a clothesline in the fresh air and sunlight can help eliminate any musty odors that may develop in the laundry room or closet. The sun's UV rays can also help kill bacteria and mold spores that can cause unpleasant odors in clothes.


Additionally, the fresh outdoor air can infuse your clothes with a clean and natural scent, making them smell fresh and clean when you bring them back inside.


Clean your washing machine

Over time, washing machines can develop a musty odor from the buildup of detergent residue, dirt, and bacteria. To keep your laundry smelling fresh, it's important to regularly clean your washing machine. Here are some tips for cleaning your machine:


  • Run a hot water wash cycle: Empty the washing machine and set it to the hottest water setting. Add 2 cups of white vinegar or 1/2 cup of baking soda to the drum. Let the machine run a full wash cycle to help break down any residue and bacteria.
  • Clean the detergent dispenser: Remove the detergent dispenser tray and soak it in hot, soapy water. Use a small brush or toothbrush to scrub away any built-up detergent and gunk. Rinse thoroughly and dry before replacing it in the machine.
  • Wipe down the door seal: The rubber door seal can trap moisture and develop mold or mildew. Use a damp cloth or sponge with a mixture of vinegar and water to wipe down the door seal. Pay special attention to the crevices where mold can hide.
  • Clean the filter: Some washing machines have a filter that can become clogged with lint, dirt, and debris. See your machine's manual on how to remove and clean the filter. Be sure to replace it correctly once cleaned.
  • Air out the machine: When not in use, leave the washing machine door open to allow air to circulate and prevent mold growth. This can also help prevent musty odors from forming.


Store clothes properly

Make sure your clothes are completely dry before storing them to prevent mildew and odors. Consider using scented sachets or drawer liners to keep your clothes smelling fresh in storage.


Wash towels and sheets frequently

Towels and sheets can quickly accumulate odors, so make sure to wash them regularly to keep them smelling fresh.


Keep your laundry area clean

Make sure to regularly clean your laundry area to prevent odors from lingering on your clothes. Vacuum and wipe down surfaces to keep the area smelling fresh.


Consider using essential oils

Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a cloth and toss it in the dryer with your laundry for a natural, fresh scent.


Rotate your laundry detergents

To prevent your nose from becoming desensitized to a specific scent, consider rotating between different laundry detergents to keep your clothes smelling fresh.


Let Citiwash and Clean handle your Laundry

Let Citiwash and Clean take care of all your laundry needs so you can enjoy clothes that smell fresh and clean every time. Our professional team uses high-quality products and techniques to ensure your garments stay in top condition. Say goodbye to the hassle of doing laundry yourself and let us deliver exceptional results for you. Contact us today to schedule your laundry service!

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