Laundry care
Freshly washed clothes should smell clean. When they smell musty instead, the cause is usually moisture, detergent buildup, or a washing machine that needs attention.
1. Do not leave wet laundry sitting
Move clothes from the washer to the dryer or drying rack as soon as you can. Damp fabric left in a closed machine gives odours time to develop.
2. Use the right amount of detergent
More detergent does not always mean cleaner clothes. Too much can leave residue behind, which traps odours and makes fabric feel less fresh.
3. Clean the washing machine
Run a cleaning cycle according to your machine’s instructions. Wipe the door seal, detergent drawer, and inside of the door, where moisture and residue often collect.
4. Dry clothes completely
Whether you use a dryer or air-dry indoors, make sure each item is fully dry before folding or storing it away. Thick towels and waistbands can hold hidden moisture.
Leave the washing-machine door and detergent drawer slightly open between washes so the inside can air out.
When to investigate further
If the smell returns immediately after every wash, check your machine manual and consider whether the drain, filter, or plumbing needs professional attention.
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