A writer tested three methods to remove musty smells from towels and found that adding white vinegar to the wash worked best. The test compared using baking soda, skipping fabric conditioner, and adding white vinegar. Only the vinegar method completely eliminated the musty odour.
Towels can smell musty when they stay damp for too long, whether left in the washing machine, piled up after a shower, or hung in a poorly ventilated space. Moisture trapped in the fibres encourages bacteria, which causes the unpleasant smell that can linger even after washing. Fabric conditioners can make the problem worse by coating the fibres and reducing their ability to absorb water.
Baking soda test
Baking soda, a staple in the writer's home for cleaning, was the first method tested. About half a cup was added to the washing machine drum along with the towels, and a normal warm wash was run without any extra detergent or fabric conditioner.
The towels came out noticeably fresher and smelt much cleaner than before. However, a slight trace of mustiness remained, particularly once the towels had dried. The method worked reasonably well but was not enough to completely banish the odour.
Ditching fabric conditioner
The second test involved stopping the use of fabric conditioner altogether for around one month when washing towels. The writer noted that while fabric conditioner leaves laundry feeling softer and smelling pleasant, it can leave a film on towels and reduce their absorbency.
The difference was noticeable, but the method did not deliver the desired results. The towels still felt less absorbent and slightly musty.
White vinegar wins
The third method used white vinegar, another staple in the writer's cleaning cupboard. About half a cup was added to the washing machine's fabric softener compartment, and the towels were washed as usual without fabric conditioner.
Once the towels had finished washing and were completely dry, the musty smell had disappeared, and they did not smell of vinegar either. They also felt fresher and less coated, which was particularly noticeable. The acidity of the vinegar helped break down residues in the fabric, making this the method that made the most difference.
