How to Remove a Musty Smell from Textiles Without Washing or Sunlight Exposure

Dealing with a musty smell in textiles without washing or sunlight exposure can be a challenge. This article will provide several effective methods, from natural home remedies to slight modifications in your daily habits. Whether you're dealing with clothing, towels, or any porous textiles, there are ways to mitigate and eliminate the musty odour.

Hang Them Out (Optionally)

While hanging textiles in the sun is a common method, it may not be practical. However, hanging your textiles in a well-ventilated area can help reduce mustiness. Ensure the air can circulate freely around the fabric, promoting drying and decreasing moisture levels.

Spray with White Vinegar

White vinegar is an excellent natural disinfectant and odor eliminator. Spray a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) on the affected areas. This solution can help neutralize the musty smell. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before airing out the textiles.

Use Lemon Juice

For a more intense natural treatment, spray or spot apply lemon juice. Lemon is highly acidic and can help combat mustiness. Mix undiluted lemon juice with water and apply to the affected areas. Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently air out the textiles.

Spray with Essential Oils

Essential oils like lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus are known for their antibacterial and deodorizing properties. Create a misting spray bottle with 91% alcohol and add a few drops of your chosen essential oil. Apply this mixture to the textiles and allow it to air dry. This not only helps in removing the musty smell but also adds a pleasant fragrance.

Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural absorbent and deodorizer. Sprinkle baking soda on the textiles, letting it sit for at least a few hours before brushing it off. This helps in neutralizing odours and absorbs moisture, making the musty smell less intense.

Freeze Them Up

For particularly bad odours, placing textiles in the freezer for a few hours can help. The cold temperature can temporarily kill odour-causing bacteria. Remove the textiles from the freezer and allow them to air out before use.

Final Option: The Dryer

While the dryer is not a preferable method, especially for textiles that need care, it can be used in emergencies. Set the dryer to a low heat setting and dry the textiles for a few minutes. This can help in reducing the musty smell, but use this option sparingly as it may affect the texture of some materials.

Additional Tips

Do Not Burn Them: While burning may sound like a quick fix, it is dangerous and should be avoided. Proper washing and proper drying are the safest and most effective methods to eliminate mustiness.

Room Airflow: Increasing airflow in the room can help reduce the growth of mold and mildew. Consider using fans or opening windows to improve air circulation.

Do Not Rely on Air Fresheners: Applicating fabric spray fresheners like Febreze may mask the smell but can enhance it over time. Your body heat can make the musty smell worse, and perfumes can also exacerbate the issue.

Preventive Measures: To avoid mustiness, wash textiles regularly, especially those made of natural fibers. Ensure good ventilation and store textiles in a dry, cool place.

By employing these methods, you can effectively manage and eliminate musty smells from textiles without resorting to extensive washing or sunlight exposure. Always test remedies on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility with the material.