If your freshly washed clothes emerge from an indoor drying session with an unpleasant, musty odour, you are certainly not alone. This common household frustration, however, has a remarkably simple and natural solution according to a leading clothing expert.
The Simple Vinegar Solution
Nicola Barker, Head of Buying at Suit Direct, has shared an effective tip to prevent this problem. Her advice, offered to Express.co.uk, is straightforward: introduce half a cup of white vinegar into your washing machine's rinse cycle.
It is crucial to note that the vinegar should not be added at the start of the wash. Barker explained that this natural deodoriser works to prevent the development of musty smells during the subsequent drying process. For those worried about their clothes smelling like a chip shop, she offered reassurance.
"The white vinegar scent naturally disappears as clothes dry, leaving them smelling fresh and odour-free," Barker confirmed.
Mastering Your Drying Technique
Beyond the vinegar hack, the expert emphasised that how you dry your clothes is equally important. A common mistake is overloading the clothes horse, which severely hampers air circulation.
"If you do overcrowd the clothes horse, clothes are going to take much longer to dry, and the risk of a musty odour increases," she warned. To ensure each item dries properly, give them ample space.
Barker also recommended strategically placing the clothes horse near a dehumidifier. "Consider placing it near a good dehumidifier, which will draw excess moisture from the air," she suggested. This appliance not only speeds up drying time but also helps eliminate the damp, musty smells commonly found in humid spaces.
What Absolutely Not to Do
Barker issued a strong warning against two tempting but problematic practices. First, never be tempted to put away clothes that are even slightly damp.
"If there's even a hint of dampness or that musty smell, your clothing isn't fully dry. Storing partially damp clothes is the fastest way to develop mould and persistent odours that are difficult to remove," she stated.
Secondly, she advised against the common habit of draping wet laundry over radiators. While it seems like a quick fix, it can be counterproductive for your home and health.
"While it might seem like a quick way to get laundry dry, it can increase the amount of moisture in the air, which can cause damp and mould," Barker explained. By following these expert tips, you can ensure your air-dried laundry comes out smelling perfectly fresh every time.
