That musty, damp odor clinging to your towels isn’t just unpleasant—it’s a sign of mildew buildup. If you’ve been wondering how to remove mildew smell from towels, you’re not alone. It’s a common issue, especially in humid environments or when towels aren’t dried properly.
The good news? You don’t need to throw your towels away. With the right techniques and a few household ingredients, you can eliminate that stubborn smell and restore freshness. This guide breaks down exactly how to fix the problem—and prevent it from coming back.
Why Towels Develop a Mildew Smell
Before jumping into solutions, it helps to understand the cause. Mildew thrives in warm, damp conditions, making towels the perfect target.
Common reasons include:
- Leaving towels wet for too long
- Improper drying
- Overloading the washing machine
- Using too much detergent or fabric softener
- Poor ventilation in front load washers
That lingering odor is actually bacteria and mold growth trapped in the fibers.
How to Remove Mildew Smell from Towels (Step-by-Step)
1. Wash Towels with Vinegar
White vinegar is one of the most effective natural deodorizers.
Steps:
- Place towels in the washing machine
- Add 1 cup of white vinegar (no detergent)
- Wash on the hottest water setting
- Run a complete cycle
Vinegar breaks down residue and kills odor-causing bacteria.
2. Follow Up with Baking Soda
After the vinegar wash, use baking soda to neutralize remaining smells.
Steps:
- Leave towels in the washer
- Add ½ cup baking soda
- Run another hot cycle
This combination removes deep-set odors and refreshes fabric.
3. Dry Towels Completely
Dampness is the enemy here.
- Use high heat in the dryer
- Or air-dry in direct sunlight (natural antibacterial effect)
- Avoid folding or storing towels until fully dry
Even slight moisture can bring the mildew smell back.
4. Avoid Fabric Softener
Fabric softeners coat fibers and trap bacteria.
Instead, use:
- Wool dryer balls
- Vinegar as a natural softener
This keeps towels fluffy without buildup.
How to Remove Mildew Smell from Towels in Front Loader
Front load washers are efficient—but prone to odor issues if not maintained properly.
Clean the Washer First
If your machine smells, your towels will too.
Steps to clean your front loader:
- Run an empty hot cycle with 2 cups vinegar
- Follow with baking soda (½ cup)
- Wipe the rubber gasket thoroughly
- Leave the door open after each wash
Use the Right Load Size
Overloading prevents proper cleaning.
- Wash fewer towels at a time
- Ensure enough water circulation
Choose the Right Detergent
Use HE (High-Efficiency) detergent in small amounts. Excess soap leads to residue buildup.
Extra Tip: Add a Rinse Cycle
Adding an extra rinse helps remove trapped detergent and bacteria, especially in front loaders.
Preventing Mildew Smell in Towels
Once your towels are fresh, keep them that way with these habits:
- Hang towels immediately after use
- Wash towels every 3–4 uses
- Avoid leaving wet laundry in the machine
- Clean your washing machine monthly
- Store towels in a dry, ventilated space
Consistency is key—mildew thrives on neglect.
Natural vs Chemical Solutions
Natural options:
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Sunlight
Chemical options:
- Oxygen bleach (safe alternative to chlorine bleach)
- Laundry sanitizers
Natural methods are usually enough, but stubborn odors may require a stronger approach.
FAQs
How do you get mildew smell out of towels permanently?
Use a vinegar wash followed by baking soda, dry thoroughly, and maintain proper washing habits. Preventing moisture buildup is essential for long-term results.
Can I use bleach to remove mildew smell from towels?
Yes, but only for white towels. Bleach kills mildew but can damage colored fabrics over time. Oxygen bleach is a safer alternative.
Why do my towels still smell after washing?
This usually happens due to detergent buildup, improper drying, or a dirty washing machine—especially in front loaders.
How to remove mildew smell from towels in front loader effectively?
Clean the washer regularly, use less detergent, run hot cycles with vinegar, and ensure proper airflow by leaving the door open after use.
Is vinegar or baking soda better for mildew smell?
Both work best together. Vinegar breaks down residue, while baking soda neutralizes odors.
Conclusion
Figuring out how to remove mildew smell from towels doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda—and a few smart laundry habits—you can bring even the mustiest towels back to life.
If you’re using a front loader, regular machine maintenance is just as important as washing techniques. Keep things clean, dry, and well-ventilated, and you’ll rarely deal with mildew again.
