How To Get Rid Of Moldy Smell From Towels

How to Eliminate Moldy Smells from Towels

Towels are a necessity of daily life, but when they develop a moldy smell, they can ruin even the best shower experience. That musty odor can linger in the air and even stick to your skin, leaving you feeling uncomfortable and self-conscious.

The good news is that getting rid of moldy smells from towels is fairly easy. You don’t need to be a cleaning expert or spend a lot of money on harsh chemicals.
In this article, I’ll share my tried-and-tested tips and tricks for eliminating moldy smells from towels, leaving them fresh and smelling great. I’ll also explain the causes of mold growth on towels and provide some helpful advice for preventing the problem in the future.

Causes of Mold on Towels

Before we dive into the solutions, it’s helpful to understand what causes mold to grow on towels in the first place. Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moist, warm environments. Towels, which are often damp and warm after use, create the perfect breeding ground for mold spores.

Some common causes of mold growth on towels include:

• Leaving towels wet for too long
• Storing towels in a damp or humid environment
• Using towels that are not fully dry between uses
• Overcrowding towels in a hamper or linen closet

Eliminating Moldy Smells from Towels

Vinegar Solution

Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and disinfectant that can effectively remove moldy smells. It’s also gentle on fabrics and won’t damage your towels. To use vinegar to get rid of moldy smells from towels:

1. Fill a large basin or bathtub with cold water.
2. Add 1 cup of white vinegar to the water.
3. Submerge the moldy towels in the vinegar solution and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
4. After soaking, rinse the towels thoroughly with clean water.
5. Wash the towels in your washing machine as usual, using your regular detergent.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is another natural deodorizer that can help absorb moldy smells from towels. It’s also a mild abrasive that can remove any mold spores that may be clinging to the fabric. To use baking soda to get rid of moldy smells from towels:

1. Sprinkle baking soda over the moldy towels.
2. Let the baking soda sit on the towels for at least 30 minutes.
3. Vacuum the towels to remove the baking soda.
4. Wash the towels in your washing machine as usual, using your regular detergent.

Bleach Solution

Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can kill mold spores and remove moldy smells. However, it’s important to note that bleach can damage some fabrics, so it’s important to test it on a small area of the towel before using it on the entire surface. To use bleach to get rid of moldy smells from towels:

1. Fill a large basin or bathtub with cold water.
2. Add 1 cup of bleach to the water.
3. Submerge the moldy towels in the bleach solution and let them soak for 15-30 minutes.
4. After soaking, rinse the towels thoroughly with clean water.
5. Wash the towels in your washing machine as usual, using your regular detergent.

Preventing Mold Growth on Towels

Once you’ve gotten rid of the moldy smell from your towels, you’ll want to take steps to prevent it from coming back. Here are a few tips:

• Hang towels up to dry after each use.
• Store towels in a dry, well-ventilated area.
• Use towels that are made of moisture-wicking materials, such as microfiber or bamboo.
• Avoid overcrowding towels in a hamper or linen closet.
• Wash towels regularly in hot water (at least 140°F).

FAQ about Moldy Towels

Q: Why do my towels smell moldy even after I wash them?

A: If your towels still smell moldy after washing, it means that the mold spores have not been completely removed. You may need to try a different cleaning method, such as soaking the towels in a vinegar solution or using a bleach solution.

Q: Can I use essential oils to get rid of moldy smells from towels?

A: Yes, some essential oils, such as tea tree oil and lavender oil, have antimicrobial properties that can help kill mold spores. You can add a few drops of essential oil to your washing machine or dryer to help eliminate moldy smells.

Q: How often should I wash my towels?

A: It’s a good idea to wash your towels after every 3-4 uses. If you use your towels for sweaty activities, such as exercising, you may need to wash them more often.

Q: Can I dry my towels in the dryer to prevent mold growth?

A: Yes, drying your towels in the dryer on a high heat setting can help kill mold spores and prevent mold growth. However, it’s important to avoid over-drying your towels, as this can damage the fabric.

Conclusion

Getting rid of moldy smells from towels is relatively easy and inexpensive, but it’s important to understand the causes of mold growth and take steps to prevent it from coming back. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can keep your towels smelling fresh and clean.

If you have any questions or concerns about mold growth on towels, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional cleaning service.

Are you interested in learning more about how to prevent mold growth in your home? Leave a comment below and I’ll be happy to share some additional tips.