The most effective solution for how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes is to sanitize the fabric using the white vinegar laundry hack. Vinegar kills the fungal spores responsible for the musty odor and neutralizes the buildup causing it. For long-term prevention, regularly clean the washing machine and ensure clothes are thoroughly dried—preferably in the sun.

There’s nothing quite like that unmistakable musty, sour scent that hits you when you pull clothes out of the washer or your closet. That odor isn’t “just dampness”—it’s a sign that mildew (a type of mold) has settled into the fabric. And once it takes hold, regular detergent won’t fix it.

The good news? Learning how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes is easy once you know the right method—and it starts with addressing the fungal source, not covering it up. Today, you’ll get the safest, strongest, fastest non-toxic process for eliminating the odor completely.

The Ultimate Deodorizer: The White Vinegar Laundry Hack

White vinegar is, hands down, the most effective household weapon against mildew odors. Unlike scented products that simply mask smells, vinegar gets to the root of the problem:

• It kills mold and mildew spores.

• It neutralizes the musty, alkaline buildup in fabric.

• It’s safe for nearly all textiles when diluted.

• It works quickly—perfect for anyone searching for how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes fast.

Step-by-Step for How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell in Clothes Fast

Follow these steps exactly, and you’ll wipe out the odor at its microbial source.

1. Pre-Soak With Vinegar (The Sanitizing Step)

1. Fill your washer (or a large tub) with hot water—as hot as your fabric safely allows.

2. Add 2 cups of white vinegar.

3. Submerge your clothes and soak for 30–60 minutes.

4. Drain the water completely.

2. Wash With Detergent + Booster

1. Place the clothes back in the washer.

2. Add your regular detergent.

3. Add ½ cup Borax if the odor is strong (Borax boosts deodorizing power).

4. Run a long cycle on warm or hot.

3. Sun Dry Clothes (The Natural Mold-Killer)

If possible, hang the clothes outside in direct sunlight.
UV rays act as a natural sanitizer and odor eliminator—one of the oldest tricks for anyone learning how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes fast.

If you must machine dry, do it only after you confirm the smell is gone.

Sanitizing the Source: Clean the Washing Machine

Most people don’t realize this, but a dirty washer is often the reason the problem keeps coming back. If mildew is living inside the machine, it re-contaminates your “clean” clothes—making you think the fabric is the issue when the appliance is actually the culprit.

This is essential for both prevention and for anyone needing to know how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes washer.

How to Clean the Washing Machine:

1. Run an empty hot cycle with 2–4 cups of white vinegar in the drum.

2. Pour 1 cup of vinegar into the detergent tray to flush buildup.

3. If your washer has a “tub clean” cycle, use it.

4. Wipe down the rubber gasket, detergent drawer, and door with vinegar (these areas trap moisture and mold).

5. Leave the door open for several hours to dry fully.

Repeat monthly for a fresh-smelling washer.

Drying and Prevention: Never Trap the Damp

Once your clothes are clean, the final step is making sure they stay clean. Moisture is the breeding ground for mildew, so drying correctly is non-negotiable.

Why Sun Drying Is Superior

Sunlight is a natural disinfectant, and fresh air carries away lingering smells. If weather allows, always sun dry clothes when dealing with mildew.

Daily Prevention Tips to Remove Musty Odor for Good

• Leave the washing machine door open after every load.

• Clean the washer monthly using the method above.

• Never let wet clothes sit for more than 30 minutes.

• Avoid overloading the washer (clothes can’t rinse properly).

• Use white vinegar as a softener substitute occasionally—it keeps buildup away.

• Make sure closets are dry and well-ventilated.

• Don’t store clothes until they are 100% dry.

FAQ

1. Is Borax better than vinegar?

Borax boosts deodorizing and helps with very stubborn odors, but vinegar is the primary mildew killer. Use both for severe cases.

2. Can I use fabric softener afterward?

Avoid it. Softener leaves a residue that traps moisture—exactly what mildew loves. Vinegar works better and keeps clothes soft naturally.

3. What if the mildew smell is coming from the clothes dryer?

Clean the dryer by wiping the drum with vinegar and ensuring the vent is clear. Moist lint buildup can trap odors.

4. Will vinegar make my clothes smell like a salad?

No—vinegar evaporates completely during the wash and leaves zero scent once dry.

Conclusion

The secret to defeating mildew is simple: sanitize, rinse thoroughly, dry completely, and keep your washer clean. By consistently using the white vinegar laundry hack and maintaining your machines, you’ll finally understand how to get rid of mildew smell in clothes—not just temporarily, but permanently.