How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell (Clothes)

Difficulty Easy
Time 15 min active + wash cycle
How Often As needed

What You'll Need

Step-by-Step Method

1
Vinegar soak

Place the musty clothes in the washing machine. Add 1 cup white vinegar directly to the drum. Run a hot wash cycle with no detergent. Vinegar kills mildew and neutralizes the musty odor.

1 cycle
2
Baking soda wash

Without removing the clothes, add 1/2 cup baking soda and your regular detergent. Run another hot wash cycle. Baking soda neutralizes any remaining odor.

1 cycle
3
Dry immediately

Remove clothes immediately when the cycle ends. Dry in the dryer or hang in direct sunlight. UV light provides additional antimicrobial action. Do not leave wet clothes sitting again.

1 cycle or 2-3 hours
Sunlight is a natural mildew killer. Line-drying musty clothes in direct sun is remarkably effective.
🚫 What NOT to Do
  • Do not use fabric softener (masks odor temporarily but does not kill mildew)
  • Do not dry clothes that still smell musty (heat can set the odor)
💡 Pro Tips from The Freak
  • Set a phone timer when you start the washer. Mildew starts growing on wet clothes within 8-12 hours.
  • Leave the washer door ajar after every cycle to prevent mildew inside the machine itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mildew can begin growing on wet fabrics within 24-48 hours in warm, humid conditions. You may notice the musty smell within 8-12 hours. If clothes have sat in the washer for more than 24 hours, always rewash before drying.

Sources & Methodology

Vinegar (acetic acid) kills most mildew species on contact. Baking soda neutralizes acidic and alkaline odor compounds through chemical buffering.

Related Guides

Smoke Smell

Pet Urine Carpet

Cooking Odor

Last reviewed: March 20, 2026

The Clean Freak provides cleaning guidance for informational purposes. Not a substitute for professional cleaning or mold remediation advice. Full disclaimer.