There’s nothing worse than stepping out of a hot shower and grabbing a towel that smells like mildew. It’s a common problem in many homes — and it’s not only unpleasant, but can be downright embarrassing when guests are around.
Luckily, with the right care and a few tried-and-true tricks, you can restore your towels to fresh, fluffy perfection.
Why Towels Start to Smell
That musty odor is usually caused by damp towels that aren’t dried properly. Add in warmth and darkness (like inside a hamper or bathroom), and you’ve got the perfect environment for mold and bacteria to grow. Detergent and fabric softener residue can also trap moisture, making things worse.
10 Easy Hacks to Get Rid of Mildew Smell
1. Vinegar + Baking Soda Duo
Wash towels in hot water with 1 cup of white vinegar (no detergent). Then wash again with ½ cup of baking soda. This combo breaks down residue and neutralizes odors.
2. Add Borax to Your Wash
Add ½ cup of borax to your detergent. It’s a natural cleaner that helps kill mildew-causing bacteria.
3. Lemon Juice Boost
Add a cup of lemon juice to your wash cycle. The acidity helps cut through odor and leaves a fresh citrus scent.
4. Essential Oils for Fragrance & Freshness
A few drops of tea tree or lavender oil in the rinse cycle can refresh your towels and add natural antibacterial power.
5. Sun-Dry for a Natural Clean
Hang towels outside on a sunny day. The UV rays kill bacteria, and your towels will smell naturally fresh.
6. Use Hot Water
If your towels can handle it, wash them on the hottest safe setting to kill bacteria and dissolve residue.
7. Try Salt + Vinegar
Mix ½ cup of salt and 1 cup of vinegar into your wash cycle. This helps scrub away buildup and odors.
8. Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner
Add ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide to the wash. It disinfects and brightens without harsh chemicals.
9. The Freezer Trick
Place smelly towels in a plastic bag and freeze overnight. Cold temperatures help kill bacteria that cause odors.
10. Store with Activated Charcoal
Keep activated charcoal in a breathable bag in your linen closet to absorb moisture and prevent smells between uses.
Final Tips for Keeping Towels Fresh
- To avoid future mildew smells:
- Always dry towels completely before folding or storing.
- Avoid using too much detergent or fabric softener.
- Store towels in a cool, dry space with airflow.
With these simple hacks, you can ditch the musty smell and enjoy soft, clean-smelling towels every day — no fancy products required.
