There’s nothing quite as disheartening as grabbing a towel after a refreshing shower, only to be hit with that unmistakable mildew smell. But don’t worry! You don’t need to toss your towels just yet. Using a few household items and simple steps, you can learn how to get mildew smell out of your towels and keep them fresh. This will eliminate the odor from your towels and keep them smelling like new.
What You’ll Need
Before we dive in, gather these essentials:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Hot water
- Laundry detergent
- Washing machine
- Sunshine (optional but highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Initial Wash with Vinegar
Start by washing your towels in hot water with white vinegar. Here’s how:
- Place your smelly towels in the washing machine.
- Add 1-2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum (no detergent at this stage).
- Run a full wash cycle on the hottest setting possible. The vinegar helps to kill mold and mildew, neutralizing the odor.
2. Second Wash with Baking Soda
After the vinegar wash, it’s time for another round, this time with baking soda:
- Leave the towels in the washing machine.
- Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the drum.
- Again, use the hottest water setting and run a full wash cycle. Baking soda works to eliminate any lingering smells and softens the towels.
3. Rinse Thoroughly
For extra freshness, you can run an additional rinse cycle to ensure all residues from vinegar and baking soda are removed.
4. Dry Completely
This step is crucial. Mildew thrives in damp conditions, so make sure your towels are thoroughly dried:
- If the weather allows, hang your towels outside in direct sunlight. The UV rays help to further disinfect and naturally freshen your towels.
- Alternatively, use the highest heat setting on your dryer. Ensure they are completely dry before storing them away.
Prevention Tips
To keep that mildew smell from coming back, follow these simple tips:
- Hang Towels Properly: After each use, spread out your towels on a rack or bar to dry completely.
- Wash Regularly: Don’t let used towels sit in the hamper for too long. Aim to wash them every 3-4 uses.
- Use Less Detergent: Sometimes, using too much detergent can lead to build-up, which can trap moisture and bacteria. A smaller amount can be just as effective.
- Avoid Fabric Softeners: They can leave a residue that traps odors. Try dryer balls instead of fabric softener.
Consider Upgrading Your Towels
If you’ve tried everything and your towels still smell funky, it might be time to consider investing in new ones. Here’s a few favorites from our own linen closet that won’t break the bank.
Our Favorite Affordable Towel: Quick Dry Ribbed Bath Towel at Target
The Quick Dry Ribbed Bath Towel from Target has become our top pick for its perfect blend of luxury and functionality. This towel stands out with its high absorbency and fast-drying properties, thanks to its ribbed texture that promotes better air circulation. It’s soft and plush, offering a cozy wrap after every bath, while its durable construction ensures it remains fluffy and intact after numerous washes. The stylish ribbed design adds a modern touch to any bathroom decor, and its eco-friendly production makes it a responsible choice.
- Quick Drying: Ribbed texture allows for faster air circulation, reducing drying time.
- Soft and Plush: Luxurious feel without sacrificing absorbency.
- Durable: Maintains quality wash after wash.
- Stylish: Available in various colors to suit any bathroom decor.
- Eco-Friendly: Produced with sustainable practices.
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