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#### 4. **Check Your Washing Machine for Mildew**
Sometimes, the musty smell can come from the washing machine itself, especially if it has a build-up of mold or mildew. If you’ve cleaned your towels, but the smell persists, it might be time to clean your washer.
**Instructions**:
1. **Run an empty wash cycle** with hot water and 2 cups of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner. This will clean out any mold or mildew that may have built up inside the drum.
2. Wipe down the inside of the washing machine, especially around the door seals and detergent dispenser, where mold and mildew are prone to grow.
3. **Leave the washer door open** between loads to allow it to air out and dry completely.
**Why it works**: Cleaning your washing machine ensures that it’s not harboring the very bacteria that are causing your towels to smell musty.
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#### 5. **Dry Towels Properly**
Proper drying is essential in keeping towels fresh and free of musty odors. Towels that don’t dry completely will often retain moisture, creating the perfect breeding ground for mildew.
**Instructions**:
1. **Use a dryer** with a high heat setting to fully dry your towels. Drying towels in the sun can also help remove odors naturally.
2. If air-drying, **hang towels in a well-ventilated area**. Avoid leaving them in a damp, enclosed space like a bathroom or laundry room.
3. **Avoid overloading** the dryer so that the towels have enough space to tumble freely and dry evenly.
**Why it works**: Proper drying prevents moisture from lingering in your towels, which can prevent the growth of mildew and the development of musty odors.
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### Bonus Tips for Preventing Musty Towels in the Future
– **Avoid fabric softeners**: Fabric softeners can leave a coating on towels, which traps moisture and contributes to musty smells. Instead, use vinegar in the rinse cycle to soften towels naturally.
– **Wash towels regularly**: Don’t let towels sit damp for too long. Wash them after every few uses to prevent odors from developing.
– **Use a drying rack**: If you don’t have access to a dryer, use a drying rack in a well-ventilated area to ensure towels dry quickly and thoroughly.
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### Conclusion
Musty smells in towels are not only unpleasant, but they can also make your entire laundry room smell stale. By following these easy steps, such as using white vinegar, baking soda, and regular machine cleaning, you can eliminate those stubborn odors and keep your towels fresh, fluffy, and smelling great.
Don’t forget that proper drying is just as important as washing when it comes to keeping towels in tip-top condition. By incorporating these tips into your laundry routine, you’ll never have to deal with musty towels again!
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