How to Get Rid of Musty Smells in Clothes (Even After Washing)

Few things are more frustrating than pulling a clean shirt out of the closet only to discover it smells musty.

Whether clothes have been sitting in storage, left in the washing machine too long, or exposed to moisture in a basement or closet, musty odors can quickly develop and become difficult to remove.

The good news is that most musty smells aren't permanent. With the right cleaning methods and a few preventative measures, you can remove odors and keep your clothes smelling fresh.

Here's how to get rid of musty smells in clothes and prevent them from coming back.

Why Do Clothes Smell Musty?

Musty odors are usually caused by moisture.

When fabric remains damp for too long, mildew and odor-causing bacteria can begin to grow.

Common causes include:

• Leaving laundry in the washer overnight
• Storing clothes before they are fully dry
• Damp basements or closets
• Poor air circulation
• Excess detergent buildup
• High humidity

Even if you can't see mildew, you may still notice the smell.

Step 1: Rewash the Clothes Properly

The first step is often the simplest.

Wash the clothing again using:

• The correct amount of detergent
• The warmest water allowed by the care label
• A full wash cycle

Many people use too much detergent, which can leave residue behind and trap odors inside the fibers.

For guidance, check out our article:

How Much Detergent Should You Use?

Step 2: Use White Vinegar During the Wash

White vinegar can help break down odor-causing residue.

Add:

• 1 cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle

This can help neutralize odors without damaging most fabrics.

Do not mix vinegar and bleach together.

Step 3: Dry Clothes Completely

One of the most common reasons musty odors return is incomplete drying.

Before storing clothes:

✅ Make sure they are completely dry.

Even slight dampness can allow mildew and odors to redevelop.

Step 4: Improve Air Circulation

Closets and storage spaces can contribute to musty smells.

To reduce odors:

• Leave space between hanging garments
• Avoid overpacking storage containers
• Improve airflow in closets
• Use a dehumidifier in damp areas

Proper ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup.

Why Clothes Smell Musty After Storage

Many people notice musty odors after taking seasonal clothing out of storage.

This typically happens because:

• Clothes were stored slightly damp
• Storage areas had high humidity
• Air circulation was limited

Before storing clothing long-term:

• Wash garments first
• Ensure they are completely dry
• Store them in a cool, dry location

How to Remove Mildew Smell From Clothes

If mildew odor is particularly strong:

1. Wash the garment using detergent.
2. Add white vinegar during the rinse cycle.
3. Dry thoroughly.
4. Repeat if necessary.

The sooner mildew odors are addressed, the easier they are to remove.

Why Clothes Can Smell Musty Even After Washing

If clothing still smells musty after laundering, the problem may not be the clothes themselves.

Possible causes include:

A Dirty Washing Machine

Residue inside the washer can transfer odors back onto clean clothing.

Excess Detergent

Too much detergent can trap moisture and odors.

Incomplete Drying

Clothes that remain damp can redevelop odors quickly.

For more odor-related troubleshooting, read:

Why Your Laundry Still Smells After Washing (And How to Fix It)

How to Prevent Musty Smells in Clothes

Remove Laundry Promptly

Don't leave wet clothes sitting in the washer.

Store Only Dry Clothing

Even slightly damp garments can develop mildew.

Keep Closets Dry

Control humidity whenever possible.

Wash Frequently Worn Items Regularly

Body oils and moisture can contribute to odor buildup over time.

Follow Care Label Instructions

Different fabrics require different care methods.

Not sure what the symbols mean?

Read our guide:

How to Read Laundry Symbols and Care Labels

Common Mistakes That Make Musty Odors Worse

Leaving Clothes in the Washer Overnight

This is one of the fastest ways to create musty smells.

Using Too Much Detergent

More detergent doesn't always mean cleaner clothes.

Storing Clothes Before They're Dry

Moisture is the primary cause of mildew odors.

Ignoring Humidity Issues

A damp closet or basement can quickly affect stored clothing.

When Professional Laundry Service Can Help

Sometimes musty odors become deeply embedded in fabrics, especially when:

• Clothes have been stored for long periods
• Large quantities of laundry are affected
• Bedding and comforters develop odors
• Household washing machines cannot fully eliminate the smell

At Get Fresh Start Laundry, our Wash and Fold Laundry Service helps customers throughout Fairfield County and Westchester County keep clothing, bedding, and household linens fresh and clean. We carefully sort items, follow fabric-specific care instructions, and ensure laundry is properly cleaned and dried before return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my clothes smell musty even after washing?

Common causes include detergent buildup, a dirty washing machine, incomplete drying, or lingering mildew in the fabric.

Can mildew smell be removed from clothes?

Yes. Most mildew odors can be removed with proper washing, vinegar treatment, and thorough drying.

Does vinegar remove musty smells from clothes?

In many cases, yes. White vinegar helps neutralize odors and break down residue that contributes to musty smells.

Why do clothes smell musty after storage?

Moisture, poor air circulation, and humidity are common causes of storage-related odors.

How can I prevent clothes from smelling musty?

Store only dry clothing, maintain good airflow, control humidity, and avoid leaving wet laundry sitting in the washer.

Musty odors are often a sign that moisture has become trapped in fabric. By addressing the source of the problem, washing clothing properly, and ensuring garments are completely dry before storage, you can eliminate musty smells and keep your clothes fresh, clean, and ready to wear.