How to Remove the Musty Storage Smell of Clothes
Everybody knows the smell: When you pop the lid of your storage containers on this season’s clothing and that musty, faintly plastic smell is the first thing that hits your nose. It’s not the nicest fragrance, and it makes for an annoying reception when you’re swapping your wardrobe over for the season. So how do you get that musty smell out of clothes that have been in storage before you start wearing them again? We tapped an expert for all answers surrounding how to get rid of that musty storage smell. Meet the Expert Tom Ceconi is president of Heritage Park Laundry Essentials detergent company.
Tom Ceconi, president of Heritage Park Laundry Essentials laundry detergent company, says there isn’t just one answer. “That funny storage smell can come from a number of factors: mold, mildew, damp air, mothballs, body odors, perfumes and detergents, stale air, and more,” he says. That’s why you should take a multi-pronged approach when it comes to getting the storage smell out of your clothes and avoiding it in the first place.
The best way to get rid of the musty storage smell is through washing your clothes, but Ceconi recommends a few extra steps that ensure the odor really goes away. Air out your clothes. “Hang it outside on a covered porch or other sheltered spot (direct sun can cause fabric to fade) for a few hours to allow air to circulate,” Ceconi says. Run your clothes through a regular, warm cycle with vinegar. Don’t use laundry detergent this time around, but rather a cup of white vinegar. “This will strip up built-up residue from the fabric (which is partly to blame for that musty smell),” he says. Run the same cycle, but with baking soda. Using half a cup of baking soda will help further remove odors. For the last cycle, use an enzyme detergent. “Enzyme, or biological, detergents break down stains and odors into their components to remove them more effectively,” Ceconi says. Just make sure your clothes aren’t made of silk, wool, or protein-based fabrics.
Skip the Softeners
It’s better to completely avoid fabric softeners and bleach for clothes that smell musty, as Ceconi says this can cause fading, yellowing, and build-up. Instead, he suggests airing clothes out and using a color-safe bleach if needed for stubborn odors.
How to Keep Clothes From Developing the Storage Smell
One of the best ways to prevent the dreaded storage smell is by washing and drying your clothes before you store them. “Make sure they are completely dry before storing, and if possible, avoid storage in a musty place like a damp basement,” says Ceconi. If damp places are unavoidable, try compression or vacuum bags and a plastic bin with a lid. “If the clothing is dry and the storage is airtight, you won’t get the musty smell,” he says.
The clothing storage containers you choose also make a difference. Consider swapping plastic bags and bins for fabric boxes, which provide a more breathable home for unused clothes. If plastic is a must (especially in areas prone to moisture), the vinegar, baking soda, and enzyme detergent routine should get all unpleasant smells out.
The Best Way to Store Clothing
Learning how to properly store your clothes for one season and retrieving them for the next can significantly prevent the development of musty smells. Here are some helpful tips for successfully putting away your clothes until you need them again:
Absorb Moisture with Silica Gel
Add silica gel packets or other forms of moisture absorption to your storage containers to sop up any dampness. This will prevent mold and mildew, which are primary culprits behind that unpleasant odor. You can find these packets at most craft stores or online retailers. For larger storage areas, consider using desiccant canisters.
Choose Breathable Containers
Be choosy about your containers, choosing breathable fabric options where possible. These allow for better air circulation and prevent moisture buildup compared to airtight plastic containers. If you must use plastic, ensure the clothing is completely dry before sealing.
Roll, Don’t Fold
Consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This method helps prevent wrinkles and also reduces the amount of air trapped within the fabric, which can contribute to musty odors. It’s a particularly good approach for knitwear and casual items.
Separate Fabrics
Store different types of fabrics separately. For instance, delicate items like silk and wool should be kept apart from heavier items like denim. This prevents moisture transfer between materials, which can lead to musty smells.
Avoid Overcrowding
Don’t overcrowd your storage containers. Give your clothes some space to breathe. Overpacking restricts airflow and increases the likelihood of moisture buildup. If a container is too full, consider using two containers instead.
Regular Inspections
Periodically inspect your stored clothes for any signs of dampness or musty odors. If you detect any, take immediate action by airing out the items and washing them.
Addressing Musty Smells in Delicate Fabrics
Delicate fabrics like wool and silk require extra care when it comes to storage. These materials are more susceptible to damage from moisture and pests. When storing these items, ensure they are thoroughly clean and dry. Consider wrapping them in breathable cotton garment bags to provide an extra layer of protection. Avoid using mothballs near delicate fabrics, as their fumes can damage the fibers.
What if the Musty Smell is Only Coming From Certain Items?
If the musty smell seems to be localized to only a few items, the issue might be with those specific garments. These could have absorbed moisture or developed mold during storage. Inspect these items closely for any visible signs of mold or mildew. If found, wash them immediately with a solution of vinegar and water, followed by a thorough drying. For items that don’t show visible signs of mold but still have a musty odor, try a longer soak in a solution of enzyme detergent and warm water.
How Do I Determine if the Musty Smell is Due to Mold or Something Else?
Distinguishing between a musty smell caused by general dampness and one caused by mold can be tricky. Mold typically has a more pungent, earthy odor. If you suspect mold, it’s essential to address the issue promptly. Do not attempt to clean mold yourself if it is widespread, as it can pose a health risk. Consider professional cleaning or disposal of the affected items.
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Enzyme Detergents: A Powerful Weapon Against Odors
Enzyme detergents are particularly effective at breaking down organic matter that causes musty odors. These detergents contain enzymes that target proteins and starches, effectively eliminating the source of the smell. They are a good choice for washing clothes that have been stored for extended periods.
Consider Professional Cleaning for Severe Odors
In cases where the musty smell is severe or persists after multiple attempts at cleaning, consider taking your clothes to a professional dry cleaner. They have specialized equipment and cleaning solutions that can effectively remove stubborn odors. Be sure to inform them of the issue when dropping off your clothes.
If the clothing is dry and the storage is airtight, you won’t get the musty smell. Tom Ceconi recommends a few extra steps that ensure the odor really goes away. By employing these strategies, you can maintain a fresh and pleasant wardrobe, even during the off-seasons.
References
Heritage Park Laundry Essentials: https://www.heritageparklaundry.com/
