Nothing is more reassuring than washing that smells good. Don’t worry, though, if you’re having trouble getting your clothes to smell nice. Whether you have time to wash your clothes or prefer a more portable or long-term solution, there are several ways to make your clothes smell fantastic.
Clean Your Washing Machine
If your laundry has started to carry an unpleasant smell or you want to ensure maximum freshness, begin by giving your washing machine a thorough cleaning. Over time, detergent residue and grime can build up, leading to odors. To clean your washing machine, you can either use a store-bought washing machine cleaner or opt for a DIY method. Simply add one cup of white vinegar to the empty drum and run the machine on its ‘Clean’ or ‘Sanitize’ cycle. After the cycle is complete, don’t forget to wipe down both the interior and exterior of the machine’s door to remove any remaining residue.
Practice Good Laundry Habits
Before diving into enhancing your laundry’s scent, it’s essential to establish good laundry practices. Start by promptly washing extra-sweaty or damp clothes to prevent odor buildup. Avoid letting wet laundry sit in the machine after a cycle, as this can cause musty smells. Additionally, resist overloading the washing machine or using excessive amounts of detergent, as these habits can lead to improperly cleaned clothes.
Use Vinegar
White vinegar is a versatile tool for freshening up your laundry. Just as it removes odors from your washing machine, it can help eliminate lingering smells from your clothes. To use vinegar for fresher laundry, add a quarter cup to the fabric softener dispenser during the wash cycle. Your clothes will come out smelling clean and refreshed.
Switch Up Your Scent
If your laundry no longer smells as pleasant as it once did, it might not be the detergent’s fault. Over time, your nose can become accustomed to familiar scents, making them seem less noticeable. To solve this, try switching to a different fragrance of your favorite detergent. Often, the same brand offers various scent options to keep things fresh and exciting.
Use Essential Oils and Dryer Balls
If you’re looking to avoid synthetic fragrances but still want your laundry to smell delightful, try wool dryer balls paired with essential oils. Add two to three drops of your favorite essential oil to each dryer ball, then toss them in the dryer with your clothes. The result is naturally scented laundry without the need for dryer sheets.
Take It Outside
When you’re short on time and need to freshen up slightly smelly clothing, let the fresh air do the work. Hang your items outdoors on a drying rack or clothesline in a sunny spot. Sunshine and fresh air are excellent natural deodorizers and can help eliminate mild odors within a few hours.
Use Scented Sachets
For those who store their clothes in drawers, scented sachets are a great way to keep them smelling fresh. Available in a variety of scents like lavender, rose, or fresh linen, these sachets can be placed in drawers to infuse your clothes with a pleasant fragrance. Since they often come in multipacks, you can easily add them to several drawers at once.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural odor neutralizer and can be used to keep your closet or drawers fresh. Place an open box of baking soda at the bottom of your closet, or pour a quarter cup into a small canvas bag and tuck it at the back of a drawer. Either method will help absorb unwanted odors and maintain a clean scent.
Use a Clothing Freshener Spray
For a quick and portable solution to freshen up your clothes, consider using a clothing freshener spray. You can purchase one from the store or make your own. To DIY, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then add five to six drops of your favorite essential oil. Shake well, turn the smelly clothing inside out, and spray evenly. Allow the item to dry thoroughly before wearing. For extra freshness, let it air-dry outdoors if possible.