Natural Ways to Get Rid of Laundry Odors
Before you reach for stronger scents, check the basics. Often a musty towel comes down to how long it stayed damp.
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A towel that smells sour right out of the dryer is frustrating, especially when the instinct is to add more detergent or a stronger scent. Fragrance can mask an odor without removing it, and extra detergent can leave behind residue that makes things worse.
The approaches below are simple, inexpensive, and worth trying first. Results will vary with fabric, water hardness, the source of the smell, and your machine, so think of these as options rather than guaranteed fixes.
Start with the most common causes
Quick odor checklist
- Wet laundry sat in the washer for hours
- The washer itself smells musty
- Too much detergent or softener is being used
- The washer is overloaded, so clothes can’t rinse properly
- Clothes went into a drawer before they were fully dry
- Workout clothes sat damp in a gym bag
If the washer smells, start there. Our guide to deep cleaning your washing machine walks through the gasket, the filter, and the drum.
Simple methods to try
Baking soda in the wash
Add about half a cup of baking soda to the drum along with your regular detergent. Many people find that it helps freshen towels and sportswear. It’s a mild product, though it won’t overcome a problem caused by a dirty machine.
White vinegar in the rinse
Half a cup of plain white vinegar in the softener compartment is a traditional way of tackling lingering smells and detergent residue. Check your manual first, since some manufacturers discourage frequent use because of its possible effects on rubber parts.
Fresh air and sun
Line-drying outside lets moving air do its work, and many people like the result. Sunlight can fade dark colors, so turn them inside out or keep them in the shade. Bring things in if pollen is a concern for anyone in your home.
A pre-soak for stubborn items
For towels or gym clothes, try soaking for about 30 minutes in cool or warm water with a half cup of baking soda, then wash as usual. Check the care label first, and skip soaking for wool, silk, or anything labeled “dry clean only.”
Oxygen bleach, when you need more
Oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) isn’t exactly a kitchen-cupboard ingredient, but it’s often chosen by people who want to avoid chlorine. It’s sold for use on many colorfast fabrics. Follow the package directions, and don’t use it on wool or silk.
Washing habits that help
- Move loads promptly. Set a phone alarm for when the cycle ends if it’s easy to forget.
- Use less detergent than you think. Follow the label for your load size. High-efficiency machines need HE detergent.
- Leave room. Clothes need space to move. A good guide is being able to fit a hand above the load.
- Use the warmest water the care label allows for towels and sheets. Warm water often does a better job on body oils than cold.
- Go easy on fabric softener with towels and activewear. It can build up on fibers, and it may reduce the absorbency of towels. Many activewear labels advise against it.
- Dry everything fully. Fold and put away only when no dampness remains, including seams and waistbands.
Dealing with specific smells
| Smell | Likely place to look | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Musty, mildew-like | Damp storage; dirty washer | Clean the washer, rewash, dry fully |
| Sour towels | Sat wet; residue | Baking soda wash, less detergent |
| Sweat in synthetics | Oils held in fibers | Wash soon after wearing; pre-soak |
| Smoke | Absorbed into fabric | Repeat washing; air dry outdoors |
| Pet odors | Bedding and throw blankets | Check the care label; use an enzyme detergent if suitable |
Frequently asked questions
Why do my towels smell after they’ve been washed?
Common reasons include sitting wet, too much detergent, a musty washer, or insufficient drying. Try the checklist above before changing products.
Does vinegar make clothes smell like vinegar?
The smell generally rinses out and fades as clothes dry. If it lingers, you may be using too much.
Is baking soda safe for all fabrics?
It’s mild and works with most washable fabrics, but always follow the care label. Be more cautious with delicate fibers.
Do natural methods work as well as commercial products?
It depends on the fabric and the source of the smell. They’re worth trying, but we can’t promise a particular result, and some odors need a dedicated product or more than one wash.
This guide is general information. Your home, appliances, and products may differ, so follow manufacturer instructions and product labels. Spot an error? Tell us, or read our Editorial Policy.
