Tips for Removing Musty Odors from Laundry Baskets

Is your smelly laundry basket making you cry every time you get close to it? It is obvious that it's inevitable to wash these stinky clothes. This isn't the only problem with odors. The materials used in the hamper can also make a difference in how well the odor is retained. Here are some tips for laundry hamper odor control, as well as preventing it from happening.

How to Remove Laundry Hamper Odor?

Washbaskets, especially those with lids, can begin to smell like dirty socks even when they are empty. If the hamper is made of plastic or polyester mesh, it can be washed with water safely. Let the hamper dry outside after scrubbing it with hot water and baking soda (1 cup per gallon).

When washing fabric hampers, use a heavy-duty detergent and warm water. Let air-dry. Similarly, use the dust brushes of vacuum cleaners to clean woven or wooden hampers that shouldn't get excessively wet. Putting baking soda on the lid overnight will help it air out in a bright light outside or near a window.

How to Disinfect Laundry Basket?

You need a disinfectant to kill mold spores in a washable or non-washable hamper when you smell a musty, mildew odor. Scrubbable hampers (wear gloves) should be disinfected when cleaning. Fabric hampers should be disinfected during the wash cycle. You should also avoid washing wooden or woven hampers with chlorine bleach, as they can be bleached or damaged. 

You need to disinfect with a disinfectant spray if it can't be cleaned and scrubbed to remove mildew smell from laundry basket. If you don't use a disinfectant spray, mold spores will continue to grow. Infections are rare, but can occur if someone in your home has a virus, bacteria, or fungal infection. Infections do occur, but they are rare.

Tips to Prevent Laundry Hamper Odor

There are several effective methods for preventing odors from contaminating your dirty laundry pile:

• You can mask odors with scented dryer sheets.
• In the hamper, you'll encounter less odors if you do your laundry frequently.
• Activated charcoal and other ingredients can be infused into hampers to absorb odors.
• Incorporate an air freshener into the lid.
• Replace the baking soda every few months to absorb odors.
• Allow towels and clothes to air dry completely before placing them in the hamper.
• Having several smaller hampers will make laundry day easier.

How To Keep Laundry Basket Smelling Fresh?

Optimally, you should clean your laundry basket after every laundry cycle. But if you want something extra then follow a few of the simple tips below, and you wouldn’t have to keep wondering “how to keep laundry basket smelling fresh”.

• Water & Soap

The gentlest way to remove grime from your laundry bin is to scrub it with a soapy sponge.

• Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent odor buster, and use it even before the basket starts to smell bad.

• Active Charcoal

Foul odors can be effectively absorbed by activated charcoal.

• Vinegar & Water

The antimicrobial properties of vinegar go beyond masking disgusting odors.

• Disinfectant Wipes

You will notice an immediate improvement in the smell after a quick wipe.

Conclusion: Opt for The Easiest Way to Have a Fresh Smelling Basket

Now that your laundry basket smells great, let's add the cherry on top by introducing you to Stankstix. While all methods mentioned above require a trip to the supermarket, this product lasts for a long time and requires no effort, and saves time on your part.

There's nothing like one task less than the regular chore list after a long day. We have the answer to your prayer! Wondering where to buy Stankstix? We have you covered! Check out our wide variety of Stankstix and find the one that is right for you.