Ever since humans started wearing clothes, keeping them clean and fresh has been a necessity. Over the years, we’ve developed fresheners, softeners, and boosters to enhance laundry’s cleanliness. Yet, despite these innovations, clothes can sometimes emerge from the wash less fresh than expected.
Common Reasons for Less-Than-Fresh Laundry
Lingering in the Washer
A common culprit is leaving clothes in the washer for too long. When damp laundry sits idle, mildew can develop, wasting water, detergent, and time since it must be rewashed—ideally with hot water to eliminate odors. Ensuring clothes are fully clean before moving to the dryer is also crucial, as drying can lock in both smells and stains.
Dirty Washing Machine Drain
A lesser-known reason for smelly laundry lies in the washing machine’s drain. Often overlooked, a clogged or dirty drain can have a significant impact on how fresh clothes smell.
“The drain trap is a component designed to collect lint, debris, and small objects from the water drained during the wash cycle,” explains Jennifer Smith, founder of Urban Home Corner. She adds, “It’s typically located at the bottom of the machine near the drain hose and prevents blockages in the plumbing system.” Smith recommends cleaning the drain periodically to maintain freshness.
Locating and Cleaning the Drain
To find the washing machine drain plug, consult the user manual. These manuals, often available online as PDFs, provide accurate instructions and prevent potential damage or injury. For front-loading machines, the drain is usually located at the bottom front. Top-loaders, however, may have drains at the back or require the use of a drain snake.
Once located, remove the drain plug and gently clean it with a brush or cloth. After reassembling, run an empty hot water cycle to clear any residual debris and ensure the drain functions properly.
Other Factors Contributing to Odors
Fabric Softener
Although fabric softeners are designed to leave clothes smelling fresh, over time, they can create a coating on fabrics that traps odors instead.
Excess Detergent
Similarly, using too much detergent can lead to poor cleaning. Excess suds form a barrier between clothes, preventing proper agitation and leaving laundry less clean. Overfilling the washer can also hinder water and soap distribution, resulting in a subpar wash.
Bacteria in the Washing Machine
Just as the drain needs cleaning, the washing machine itself can harbor bacteria, which contributes to unpleasant smells. Regularly cleaning the machine can prevent this issue.
Tips for Fresher Laundry
- Dry Promptly: Ensure clothes are thoroughly dried to avoid mildew.
- Air Out the Machine: After washing, leave the washer door open to let it dry and prevent musty odors.
- Use Hot Water Occasionally: While cold water is eco-friendly and gentle on fabrics, occasional hot washes can refresh both clothes and the washing machine.
Spraying the machine with a cleaning solution can also help. Store-bought sanitizers are widely available, or you can make a DIY spray using these recipes:
- Mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of white vinegar, 2 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol, and 20 drops each of lemon and tea tree oils.
- Alternatively, combine 1 ½ cups of rubbing alcohol, ¾ cup of water, and 15 drops each of lavender and lemon oils.
Apply the spray, let it sit, then wipe it clean. For tougher cleaning, diluted bleach may also be used—just follow the instructions on the bottle carefully.
Final Thoughts
Keeping laundry smelling fresh often boils down to regular cleaning and maintenance. From washing the machine drain to airing out the washer, these small but effective steps can make a big difference. Consider using laundry sanitizers or DIY scent boosters for a natural touch. Ultimately, staying proactive with cleaning is the key to consistently fresh and clean laundry.