There’s nothing quite like the feeling of putting on freshly washed clothes — soft, clean, and subtly scented. Yet somehow, even with the best detergent, laundry can sometimes come out smelling… flat. Or worse, slightly musty. The good news? Keeping clothes smelling fresh isn’t about using more product — it’s about using smarter habits.
From washing tweaks to storage tricks, these simple laundry hacks will help your clothes stay fresher for longer, without overpowering fragrances or extra effort.
Also see: New to laundry? Start here
Don’t let wet laundry sit
This one sounds obvious, but it’s the most common mistake. Leaving damp clothes sitting in the washing machine creates the perfect environment for mildew and odour-causing bacteria.
Remove laundry as soon as the cycle ends — or within 30 minutes at most. If you forget, run a quick rinse with a splash of vinegar before drying.
Use less detergent (Yes, really)
More detergent doesn’t mean cleaner clothes. In fact, excess detergent can build up in fabric fibres, trapping odours instead of removing them.
Instead, use the lower end of the recommended amount. If clothes feel stiff or smell dull, detergent build-up may be the culprit.
Add white vinegar to the wash
White vinegar is a quiet laundry hero. It neutralises odours, softens fabric, and helps break down detergent residue — without leaving a vinegar smell behind.
Add ½–1 cup of white vinegar to the fabric softener compartment or during the rinse cycle. It’s especially effective for gym wear, towels, and synthetic fabrics.
Wash towels separately
Towels are notorious for holding onto smells because they absorb moisture and detergent residue more than most fabrics. Your towels will dry faster, smell cleaner, and feel fluffier.
Let clothes fully dry — Even after the dryer
Clothes that feel “mostly dry” can still hold moisture, especially in thicker seams or waistbands. That lingering dampness often turns into an odour once stored. After air-drying or machine drying, let clothes breathe for 10–15 minutes before folding or hanging them away.
Clean your washing machine
If your washing machine smells off, your clothes will too — no matter how good your detergent is.
Monthly reset:
- Run an empty hot cycle with vinegar or baking soda
- Wipe the rubber seal and detergent drawer
- Leave the machine door open between washes
A clean machine = fresher laundry.
Choose air-drying when possible
Sunlight and fresh air naturally eliminate odours and bacteria. Even occasional air-drying can make a noticeable difference.
If outdoor drying isn’t an option, drying near an open window or well-ventilated area still helps keep clothes smelling light and clean.
Also see:Effective laundry solutions for busy households – tips for moms on the go
Freshen clothes between washes
Not everything needs a full wash after one wear. Over-washing can actually dull fabrics and trap smells over time.
Between-wash hacks:
- Lightly steam clothes to remove odours
- Hang worn items in fresh air overnight
- Use a DIY fabric spray (water and a few drops of essential oil)
Store clothes the right way
Even the freshest laundry can pick up smells if stored poorly.
Storage tips:
- Ensure clothes are completely dry before storing
- Avoid overcrowding wardrobes
- Use natural sachets like lavender, cedar, or eucalyptus
Fresh storage keeps that “just-washed” feeling alive longer.
Keeping clothes smelling fresh isn’t about stronger fragrances — it’s about preventing odours before they start. A few mindful tweaks to your laundry routine can make your wardrobe feel cleaner, lighter, and more luxurious without extra effort.
Because fresh clothes aren’t just about scent — they’re about how good you feel wearing them.
Compiled by Amy Steenkamp
First published on Woman and Home
Also see: Ways to use laundry detergent beyond the washing machine
