How to Prevent Laundry from Smelling After Washing in the Washing Machine

Dealing with laundry that still smells after washing in the washing machine can be frustrating. This issue can occur due to various factors, including washing machine maintenance, detergent usage, and washing habits. In this guide, we’ll provide you with tips and tricks to help prevent your laundry from having unpleasant odors even after washing.

Preventive Measures:

  1. Wash Promptly:
    • Whenever possible, avoid letting your laundry sit for an extended period before washing. Promptly washing your clothes helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps them smelling fresh.
  2. Avoid Overloading:
    • Overfilling the washing machine drum can prevent proper washing and rinsing, leading to lingering odors. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for load capacity to ensure effective cleaning.
  3. Use the Right Amount of Detergent:
    • Avoid using excessive detergent, as it can leave residue on your clothes and contribute to odors. Follow the detergent dosage instructions for each wash cycle.
  4. Say No to Short Wash Cycles:
    • Short wash cycles may not provide adequate cleaning, leading to persistent odors. Opt for longer, more thorough wash cycles when possible.
  5. Choose the Right Temperature:
    • While lower-temperature wash cycles are eco-friendly, some fabrics and items may require higher temperatures for proper cleaning and odor removal. Refer to garment labels for temperature recommendations.
  6. Hang Out Clothes Immediately:
    • Remove your laundry from the washing machine drum promptly after the cycle finishes. Hanging clothes outside in the fresh air can help prevent odors from developing.

Methods to Keep Laundry Fresh:

bicarbonate-washing machine
  1. Baking Soda:
    • Baking soda is a cost-effective and natural odor-fighting solution. Add half a cup of baking soda to each wash to help eliminate odors, remove stains, and brighten whites.
  2. Regularly Clean the Washing Machine:
    • Over time, washing machines can accumulate limescale and detergent residue, leading to unpleasant odors in laundry. Perform a periodic maintenance wash using citric acid or vinegar.
    • For citric acid, dissolve 150 grams in 1 liter of hot water and pour it into the washing machine drum. Run a high-temperature wash cycle.
    • Alternatively, use 1 liter of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar to clean the washing machine. Both options have descaling and deodorizing properties.