Homeowners seeking that 'just-washed' laundry smell for their bedding and towels can turn to a simple cupboard trick highlighted on a popular Facebook group. The tip, shared among fans of cleaning influencer Sophie Hinchcliffe (Mrs Hinch), provides a budget-friendly solution to the common problem of musty odours on stored linens.
The Problem: Musty Smell on Clean Laundry
The conversation began when a group member expressed frustration at finding supposedly clean items developing an unpleasant odour. Responses poured in with practical advice ranging from drying routines to storage tweaks, all aimed at preventing that musty smell from returning.
Many social media users emphasised the basics: never put anything away until it is completely dry. One commenter stated that items must be 'fully dry' before being placed in a dry cupboard, adding that a hot wash should help clear the smell from any musty towels. A second commenter agreed that everything should be 'really dry', while a third pointed out that the area around the linen cupboard should not have too much moisture either.
The Solution: Tumble Dryer Sheets in Cupboards
Alongside these warnings, several people shared tips for keeping towels and bedding fresh for longer. Many Mrs Hinch fans revealed they place tumble dryer sheets between folded items in cupboards and drawers. These sheets typically cost around £2 in supermarkets and high street stores. For instance, Wilko sells Lenor Spring Awakening Tumble Dryer Sheets for £1.99, and Tesco sells Tesco Tumble Dryer Sheets Spring Fresh for £2.65.
The Tesco pack contains 40 sheets, working out at roughly 7p per sheet. This makes the hack a budget-friendly solution that takes only seconds to implement. The supermarket describes the sheets as 'soft and fresh' and says they 'help to reduce creases'. The pack is designed with 'bright citrus, bergamot and rose fragrance for a lasting freshness.' Shoppers can find similar products at their local supermarket in a wide range of scents.
How to Use the Method
On the Facebook post, one person explained their exact technique: "I put tumble dryer sheets in my stored bedding. I placed them in as I folded them. They smell lovely when taken out of storage. I do it with holiday clothes as well." The commenter clarified they use one sheet in each pillow case, two in the sheet, and four in the quilt cover when using the method. Many others echoed the advice, offering similar pointers for the homeowner who raised the question.
Alternative Fragrance Options
Others shared that they use scented soap or bath bombs to add fragrance to their bedding and towels. One fan of the idea replied: "Tuck some bars of pleasantly scented soap (leave the wrap on, but open the ends) in amongst your stored linen, towels, etc. Cheap and it works really well." Another commenter said they love using a Lush bath bomb, stored in a bag, to achieve the same effect, adding a fresh scent to their towels and pyjamas. Bath bombs typically cost around £3 to £6, depending on size and brand. Shoppers can also cut bath bombs in half to use the product in several drawers or cupboards.
