8 Tips for Making Clothes Smell Clean and Fresh Longer

There’s nothing better than the smell of freshly washed clothes when it comes to our clothes. The smell of fresh, clean clothes can make us feel better, give off a good vibe, and make a good impression on other people. That being said, it can be hard to keep that clean, fresh smell in your clothes for a long time. 

You’re sick of your clothes still smelling musty after cleaning them, right? It can be nice to smell clean clothes, but the smell doesn’t always last as long as we’d like. This blog post will talk about eight ways to help your clothes keep their great, just-washed smell for longer. 

Why Do Clothes Lose Their Freshness? 

Before diving into the tips, let’s understand why clothes lose their fresh scent. There are several reasons why clothes tend to lose their freshness over time. Here are some key factors in this issue: 

  • Daily Wear and Tear: Clothes are exposed to various environmental factors, such as dust, pollutants, and sweat, during daily use. These elements can gradually cause fabrics to lose their fresh scent. 
  • Bacteria and Odour Buildup: Over time, bacteria can accumulate on clothing, especially in areas that trap sweat, like underarms and collars. This bacterial growth can lead to unpleasant odours. 
  • Washing Habits: Washing clothes too frequently or with excessive detergent can strip away the natural oils and scents in fabrics, leaving them less fresh. Naturally, there’s the obvious odour element that comes with letting your wet laundry sit in the washing machine before transferring it to the dryer. 
  • Drying Methods: Improper drying, especially in damp or confined spaces, can lead to a musty smell in clothes. Clothes should be dried thoroughly to prevent this issue. 
  • Storage Conditions: How and where clothes are stored can also affect their freshness. Poorly ventilated storage spaces can make clothes smell stale. 
  • Quality of Detergent: The type and quality of detergent used can impact the freshness of clothes. Some detergents may not effectively remove odours. 

 

Understanding these factors can help you take steps to maintain the fresh scent of your clothing for a longer period of time. 

8 Tips to Make Your Laundry Smell Fresh 

Basket with folded fresh clean clothes above the chair

There are many different ways to wash your clothes, and each one depends on the type of fabric, how often they need washing, and even whether or not you want them to shrink. So here are a few tips for keeping your clothes smelling fresh after doing laundry: 

Use High-Quality Detergent 

Purchasing a high-quality laundry detergent can make a significant difference. These detergents not only properly clean your clothes, but they also leave a fresh aroma that lasts for days. Look for detergents with aromas you enjoy, and your clothes will remain fragrant. To keep your laundry smelling fresh, consider these tips: 

  • Proper Detergent Selection: Begin with the right detergent. Choose a scent you love and opt for high-quality options to ensure lasting freshness. 
  • Correct Dosage: Using too much detergent can lead to residue buildup. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the ideal amount. 
  • Air-Drying Delicates: Delicate fabrics benefit from air-drying, preserving their natural scents. 

 

Choose the Right Fabric Softeners 

When it comes to fabric softeners, it’s essential to make the right choice. The type of fabric softener you select can significantly impact the feel and quality of your clothes. Different fabric softeners are formulated for specific types of fabrics. Ensure you choose one that is suitable for the materials in your clothing. For instance, some fabric softeners are designed for delicate fabrics like silk, while others work well with everyday cotton.  

Dry Clothes in Fresh Air 

When the weather permits, think about hanging your clothes outside for drying. Natural sunlight and fresh air work wonders for banishing washing smell, odours and infusing your garments with a refreshing, outdoor fragrance. What’s more, it’s an environmentally conscious choice. 

Use Scented Sachets 

Scented sachets, small pouches containing aromatic materials, can prove to be quite useful. Place them inside your drawers or wardrobe to ensure your clothes retain a delightful fragrance. Lavender, rosemary, or citrus-scented sachets are popular choices. 

Regularly Clean Your Washing Machine 

Maintaining a clean washing machine is essential for ensuring your clothes emerge with a fresh scent. As time goes by, mould and mildew can develop in the machine, resulting in unpleasant odours. To preserve that delightful laundry aroma, make it a habit to clean your washing machines regularly.  

Avoid Overloading the Machine 

It’s important to avoid overloading your washing machine. Putting too many clothes in at once can lead to less effective cleaning and may result in your laundry not smelling as fresh as desired. So, remember not to overload your machine for better results. 

Don’t Delay Folding or Hanging Your Clothes 

When you’ve finished washing and drying your clothes, it’s a good practise to promptly fold or hang them. Leaving clothes in a laundry basket or heap can lead to wrinkles and creases. These wrinkles are not only unsightly but can also make your clothes feel less fresh when you eventually wear them. 

Storing Your Freshly Laundered Clothes 

How you store your freshly laundered clothes can make a significant difference in preserving their freshness. Choose air-flowing ways to store items, such as cotton or canvas storage bags and breathable garment bags. Plastic bags should be avoided since they might trap moisture and odours. 

Bonus Tip: Baking Soda for Odour Removal 

If your clothes develop unwanted odours, especially in the armpit area, sprinkle some baking soda on the affected area before washing. Baking soda is an excellent odour absorber and can help eliminate the smell. We also recommend keeping a top-quality fabric conditioner on hand; after all, this is the key to great-smelling laundry, especially when washing larger loads. 

Maintain Your Clothes Fresh with Liquid Laundromats 

White washing machine cleaning laundry clothes

Following these eight tips in your laundry routine will help you maintain the delightful smell of fresh, clean clothes for longer. Choosing detergent, proper storage, and regular maintenance are essential aspects of ensuring your wardrobe always exudes a pleasant and inviting fragrance. So embrace these practises and revel in the joy of wearing clothes that feel and smell their best. 

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to keep your clothes fresh, visit a Liquid Laundromats near you and enjoy our self-service laundromats. Step out full of confidence with your clean, ironed, and fresh clothes with Liquid Laundromats!