Introduction
Have you ever experienced opening your dryer to get your freshly washed clothes only to be greeted by a strong musty smell? This is caused by mildew, a type of fungus that thrives in warm and damp environments. Mildew can grow in your dryer if you leave wet clothes inside for too long or if there is moisture buildup in the machine. But don’t worry, there are ways to get rid of the mildew smell and prevent it from coming back.
Step 1: Clean the dryer
The first step is to clean the dryer thoroughly. Start by unplugging the machine and removing all the lint from the lint trap. Then use a damp cloth to wipe the inside of the dryer drum, paying close attention to any areas where moisture may have accumulated. You can also use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar to wipe the inside of the dryer drum. The vinegar will help kill any mildew spores.
Step 2: Clean the clothes
Next, you’ll need to clean the clothes that have been affected by the mildew smell. Wash them in hot water with detergent and add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. This will help kill any remaining mildew spores and neutralize the odor. You can also add a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle for extra odor-fighting power.
Step 3: Dry the clothes
After washing the clothes, dry them in the dryer on the highest heat setting possible. This will help kill any remaining mildew spores and remove any moisture that may have been trapped in the fabric. Be sure to remove the clothes from the dryer as soon as they are dry to prevent any moisture buildup.
Step 4: Prevent future mildew growth
To prevent mildew from growing in your dryer in the future, be sure to remove clothes promptly after they are dry. You can also leave the dryer door open when not in use to allow air to circulate and prevent moisture buildup. Finally, you can add a moisture-absorbing product such as silica gel packets or a dehumidifier to the laundry room to help keep the environment dry.
Conclusion
Getting rid of mildew smell in clothes from the dryer may seem like a daunting task, but with a little effort, it can be done. Follow these simple steps to clean your dryer and clothes, and prevent future mildew growth. Your clothes will smell fresh and clean, and you’ll be able to enjoy the convenience of your dryer once again.