Beat the Musty Monsoon: 10 tips forfresh-smelling clothes
Use scented detergentsOpt for detergents with long-lasting fragrances. They help eliminate damp smells and leave clothes with a fresh scent, even when drying indoors during humid monsoon days.
Add fabric conditionerMix fabric conditioner in your rinse cycle. It softens clothes and adds a refreshing fragrance that lasts longer, combating mustiness caused by slow drying in monsoon humidity.
Dry clothes in sunlight when possibleEven brief exposure to sunlight kills odour-causing bacteria and freshens clothes. Use a balcony, window or terrace to air-dry whenever the rain takes a break.
Iron clothes after dryingIroning not only smoothens wrinkles but also eliminates moisture and bacteria trapped in clothes. It adds warmth that helps clothes feel and smell fresher longer.
Use indoor drying racks with fansPlace clothes near a fan or dehumidifier on indoor racks. This speeds up drying and prevents the damp, sour smell caused by prolonged moisture in the fabric.
Avoid overcrowding the drying spaceHang clothes with space between them for air to circulate. Overlapping wet clothes can cause mildew and unpleasant smells due to trapped moisture and poor ventilation.
Store with fragrance sachetsKeep dried clothes in wardrobes with cedar blocks, lavender sachets or charcoal bags. These natural deodorisers absorb moisture and release a pleasant scent, keeping clothes fresh for days.
Use vinegar in the final rinseAdd a splash of white vinegar during the final rinse. It neutralises odours, kills bacteria and leaves clothes fresher and the vinegar smell fades quickly once clothes dry.
Avoid delayed washingDon’t let damp clothes sit in the laundry basket. Wash them promptly to prevent mildew growth and unpleasant odours, especially during the monsoon’s extra-humid conditions.
Refresh clothes with fabric spraysSpritz dried clothes with fabric refreshers or DIY sprays made from essential oils. They instantly mask musty smells and give your wardrobe a fresh and clean scent boost.