How to Get Rid of Smells in the Laundry Room
Laundry rooms by their very nature can be a breeding ground for stinky smells. Dirty socks, sweaty workout clothing and wet dish towels caked with spilled food mingle together to create an unpleasant aroma. In addition, many laundry rooms are small and do not have windows or other ventilation, which intensifies the odors. Even the washing machine itself can emit an odor, whether from mildew or just years of washing dirty clothes. Removing the smells from the laundry room is as simple as getting rid of whatever is stinking it up. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Clean the Washing Machine
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Take a good sniff at your washing machine. If your clothes are coming out of the washing machine smelling musty or moldy, it is probably mildew in the machine itself. This happens as dirt and moisture accumulate over time.
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Set the cycle to run a full load with hot water. As the machine fills, add 1 cup of bleach or white vinegar. Keep in mind that white vinegar will damage tubs that are made with porcelain enamel.
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3
Leave the door slightly open when not in use. This will allow the washer to dry out and also allow smells to dissipate.
Clean Your Hamper
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Examine the inside and outside of your hamper. Over time, the dirty bits on clothing thrown into the hamper get transferred to the bottom and sides of the bin.
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Empty the hamper of clothing and scrub it inside and out with hot, soapy water.
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Let dry completely before placing dirty clothing into the hamper. Do not place wet clothing in the hamper, as this can cause mold and mildew growth. Instead, wash wet items immediately, or hang them up to dry before washing them.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep a small air freshener in your laundry room at all times. Avoid storing items in the room that smell, such as dirty sneakers or a cat box. Instead, try to find a larger storage area for these items, or a room that has ventilation.
References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
