Last Updated:June 23, 2025, 16:21 is

During the rainy season, clothes often develop a musty smell due to moisture. These simple home remedies can help keep your laundry fresh, fragrant, and bacteria-free

One of the most common mistakes we make during the monsoon is tossing damp or sweaty clothes straight into the washing machine. This habit may seem convenient, but it can quickly lead to the growth of bacteria and mould, causing clothes to smell musty even after washing.

A better option is to hang used clothes on a hanger in a well-ventilated area before washing them. Letting air pass through helps reduce moisture build-up and keeps the foul smell in check.

During the hot and humid months of summer and monsoon, this odour problem becomes even more common, sometimes even affecting clean clothes stored in cupboards.

But the good news is that removing this unpleasant smell isn’t difficult. With a few natural and easily available remedies, you can keep your clothes smelling fresh and bacteria-free. Here are a few natural remedies to remove odour from clothes:

• Lemon is a fantastic natural option for removing unpleasant smells. The citric acid in lemon juice effectively fights fungus and odour. Squeeze one lemon into a bucket of water and soak the smelly clothes for a while before washing them as usual. This method is especially effective for undergarments and towels.
• Vinegar is another excellent remedy. Most households have plain white vinegar in the kitchen. Mix one cup of vinegar in a bucket of water and soak the clothes for a short time. You can also add vinegar during the final rinse in the washing machine. It helps eliminate bacteria and mould.
• Baking soda works wonders as it not only absorbs odours but also helps kill bacteria. Add a teaspoon of baking soda to a bucket of water, soak clothes for 15–20 minutes, then rinse with plain water. You’ll notice a difference.
• To tackle musty-smelling wardrobes, place chalk pieces or silica gel pouches inside. These absorb excess moisture and help keep clothes fresh even in humid weather.
• If drying clothes outdoors isn’t possible, place them near a window or under a fan indoors. Proper ventilation helps clothes dry faster and prevents that damp smell.
• Surprisingly, vodka can also help. The alcohol in vodka is effective at neutralising odours. Mix some with water and lightly spray it on clothes. The smell will vanish within minutes.
• Using good quality scented detergent and fabric softener can also help. Soak clothes in softener for 10–15 minutes after washing to retain a pleasant fragrance.
• Always store clothes in a dry, well-ventilated place. Even freshly washed clothes will develop a smell if stored in a damp area. Keep your wardrobe, boxes, or shelves clean and moisture-free.
• Avoid re-wearing clothes without washing, even if they seem only slightly dirty. This habit increases bacterial growth and can lead to persistent odour. Whenever possible, opt for clean clothes to stay fresh and healthy, especially during the monsoon season.

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