The rainy season brings the challenge of keeping clothes fresh and dry. Due to the high humidity levels in monsoon, damp clothes bear an unpleasant, and musty smell. Furthermore, wearing these can lead to infection and cold. Let’s take a look into some effective ways to protect clothes from moisture and germs on the wettest of days.
Tips to Keep Laundry Clean and Hygienic in Rainy Season
Washing Clothes Immediately
It’s recommended to wash clothes immediately after exposure to rain. Prompt washing prevents dirt, bacteria, and musty odors from setting in, ensuring clothes stay fresh and clean throughout the damp weather.
Prioritizing Clothes for Laundry
During the rainy season, it’s better to prioritize important clothes for laundry. Washing essential items promptly ensures fresh and clean clothes when one needs them the most. This keeps important clothes ready to wear, regardless of the weather outside.
Pre-soaking Before Washing
Pre-soaking clothes before washing is like a game changer during the rainy season. One needs to fill a bucket with water and a little detergent, then soak clothes for 30 minutes. This helps remove dirt, sweat, and odors, keeping them fresh and clean.
Using Scented Detergent
One may opt for scented detergent while washing clothes during the rainy season. The pleasant fragrance will help combat any musty odor caused by dampness, leaving clothes smelling fresh and clean even in the rainy weather.
Using Fabric Conditioner
Using fabric conditioner during the rainy season is one of the best tips to keep clothes fresh and soft. It not only adds a delightful fragrance but also helps to reduce static and make clothes more comfortable to wear. Additionally, it ensures that clothes stay in great condition throughout the damp weather.
Using Vinegar in the Wash
Adding a cup of white vinegar to laundry can work wonders for eliminating odors from clothes. Apart from acting as a natural fabric softener, vinegar is also an effective antibacterial agent. The result is fresh-smelling and sanitized garments, ensuring optimal hygiene during the monsoon.
Washing in Small Batches
It’s clever to avoid washing clothes in big batches during the rainy season. Washing smaller loads allows for better cleaning and drying, preventing dampness and musty smells. Moreover, it helps clothes to stay fresh.
Removing Clothes Fast from Washing Machine
To keep clothes fresh, it would be wise to promptly remove them from the washing machine when the cycle ends. Leaving wet clothes sitting can lead to mildew and musty odors. By taking them out immediately, one can prevent dampness and ensure clothes stay clean and smell fresh.
Drying clothes (Representational Image: FreePik)
Drying Clothes Indoors Smartly
When it is raining outside, it becomes necessary to dry clothes indoors. One should opt for a well-ventilated area to prevent clothes from getting damp odors. It is highly suggested to avoid hanging them in enclosed spaces, near damp walls, or placing damp clothes too close. Another effective way is to dry clothes faster with a fan.
Letting Clothes Fully Dry
It’s important to ensure clothes are fully dry before storing during the rainy season. Dampness leads to musty smells and potential mold growth. Let them air dry completely to keep clothes fresh and in good condition.
Ironing Away Extra Moisture
One should iron one`s clothes to remove any lingering moisture during the rainy season. The heat from the iron helps eliminate dampness, preventing musty smells and potential mold growth. Keeping clothes dry and fresh ensures they remain in good condition throughout the wet weather.
Folding Laundry Immediately
It’s always suggested to fold laundry immediately after drying during the rainy season. It’s best to avoid leaving clothes lying around. During monsoon, the dampness of air can leave musty smells and wrinkles in the hanging dry clothes. By promptly folding and storing them, one can maintain their freshness and ensure they are ready to wear whenever one needs them.
Using Camphor or Naphthalene Balls
Using camphor or naphthalene balls in the wardrobe fights dampness and deters insects. These moth repellents emit a pleasant aroma. It also safeguards clothes and keeps them fresh during the rainy season.
Keeping Wardrobe Dry
To maintain a dry wardrobe, one can employ moisture absorbers such as silica gel packets or charcoal pouches. Routinely cleaning and vacuuming the wardrobe will prevent the growth of mold and mildew. This saves clothes from the damaging effects of excess moisture.
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Investing in a Dehumidifier
Living in a region with constant rainfall calls for a dehumidifier. This essential appliance effectively regulates indoor humidity levels. By combating excessive moisture, the dehumidifier prevents musty odors and mold growth, and enhances the comfort of living space.
Cleaning Washing Machine Regularly
During the monsoon, the washing machine can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Again, lingering odors and residue in the machine can transfer to clothes, affecting their freshness. To keep clothes fresh, regularly deodorizing and cleaning the washing machine with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar is significant. This combination eliminates odor-causing agents and keeps clothes smelling clean and pleasant.
Embracing Essential Oils
To combat the unpleasant smell during the rainy season, it’s great to add a few drops of essential oils like lavender or lemon to clothes while washing. Besides providing a delightful fragrance, certain oils have antimicrobial properties that can help eliminate odors and help to maintain a fresh closet.
Closing Lines
Besides being smelly, and unhealthy, damp clothes can ruin one’s mood. Keeping clothes and closet fresh during the rainy season is essential to stay away from illness. So far, we have shared some practical ways to keep clothes fresh and germs-free during monsoon. With a little care, one can enjoy the rainy season with confidence.
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