Bed Sheets Smell Musty After Washing: How to Prevent That Stinky Washing Smell?

Written By Anđela Rajković

Sleep Consultant

22 November 2023 4 min read

Are you tired of doing laundry and finding that your bed sheets smell musty after washing? Don't worry, you're not alone!

Are you tired of pulling your freshly washed bed sheets out of the dryer, only to be hit with a musty smell that makes you feel like you need to wash them all over again?

Just like previously said – you're not alone. Many people experience this problem and it can be frustrating to deal with. But fear not, there are several reasons why your bed sheets may smell musty after washing, and there are also solutions to help you get that fresh, clean scent you crave.

In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the musty smell and provide some tips on how to prevent it from happening.

Why do my sheets smell after washing?

• Overloading the washing machine: cramming too many sheets into the washing machine can prevent proper water circulation. That can result in sheets not getting washed thoroughly, leading to a musty odour.
• Using the wrong laundry detergent: some detergents are not effective in removing dirt, bacteria, and mould from the sheets. This can cause smelly sheets even after washing.
• Using the wrong amount of detergent: adding too little detergent can result in insufficient cleaning, while using too much detergent can leave behind soap residue, leading to a musty odour.

• Using the wrong water temperature: washing sheets in cold water may not be effective in killing bacteria and dust mites while washing in the hottest water setting can damage the fabric and still not guarantee complete removal of bacteria and mould.
• Dirty water: washing machines can harbour bacteria and mould, and if the water is not changed frequently, the sheets can end up smelling musty due to the dirty water.
• Bacteria and mould: if sheets are left damp for too long after washing, bacteria and mould can grow and cause a musty odour.

Why do my washed sheets smell musty after storing?

• Storing sheets for too long without washing them again can cause a musty odour to develop.
• Dampness is another factor that can contribute to smelly sheets. If sheets are not completely dry before storing them, they can develop mildew or mould smell over time.
• Improper drying can also be a culprit for smelly sheets. If sheets are dried on too high of heat or for too long, it can damage the fabric and cause a strange odour.

How to properly wash sheets

Keeping your sheets smelling fresh and clean is essential for a good night's sleep! Here are some tips to make sure your sheets stay odour-free:

• Start with a pre-wash (with hot water if the sheets are made of cotton, for example)by adding half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle. This will help remove any lingering odours and stains.
• Use warm water in the wash cycle to help break down any dirt or oils on the fabric. If your sheets are white, you can add a small amount of chlorine bleach to the wash cycle.

• During the rinse cycle, add a cup of white vinegar. This will help remove any remaining soap residue and leave your sheets feeling soft.
• Avoid overloading the washing machine. If you have more sheets, it's better to split them into two loads to ensure that they are properly cleaned.
• Don't wash your sheets with towels or clothing that can transfer odours and stains to your bedding.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your sheets stay fresh and clean, and you can enjoy a good night's sleep without any smelly surprises!

How to properly dry sheets

Properly drying your sheets is just as important as washing them to avoid that musty smell. Here are some tips to help you dry your sheets the right way:

• Line drying your sheets is an excellent option if you have the space. Not only will it save on energy, but it will also give your sheets a natural freshness that you can't get with a dryer.
• If you do use a dryer, make sure there is good airflow. This will help prevent moisture from getting trapped in the sheets, which can lead to that musty smell.

• Avoid drying your sheets on high heat as it can damage the fibres of the fabric and lead to shrinkage.
• Keep an eye on the humidity levels in your laundry room. If it's too humid, it can be difficult for your sheets to dry properly, which can lead to a musty smell.

How to properly store sheets

• Make sure your sheets are completely clean before storing them. Wash them with your usual detergent and add a little bit of white vinegar or baking soda to the rinse cycle to help eliminate any odours.
• Dry your sheets completely before storing them. Use a low or medium heat setting and avoid over-drying, which can damage the fabric and cause a strange odour.
• Once your sheets are dry, give them a quick spritz with a linen spray or a mixture of water and essential oils in a spray bottle to add a fresh scent.
• Fold your sheets neatly and store them in a clean, dry space with good airflow. Avoid storing them in a humid or damp area, which can cause mildew or mould to grow.
• If you don't have a lot of storage space, consider using vacuum-sealed bags to compress your sheets and keep them fresh until you're ready to use them again.

Conclusion

In conclusion, smelly sheets are no match for our cleaning hacks!

By taking a few extra steps during the washing, drying, and storing processes, we can ensure that our sheets stay fresh and clean. And for an extra boost of freshness, try using a linen spray or even a DIY spray made from essential oils and water.

Moreover, when in doubt, always do the smell test before putting sheets back in the linen closet, and more importantly, before putting them on the bed! With these tips, we can say goodbye to musty odours and hello to clean, fresh sheets (and fresh laundry of any kind)!

But if you have any hacks of your own for when your bed sheets smell musty after washing, share them in the comments!

About the author

Anđela Rajković

As a content writer and a sleep enthusiast, I have a profound passion for creating informative and interesting content that resonates with readers from all walks of life – preferably those who love to sleep. With a background in the English language and literature and a love of research, I'm always seeking new ways to share my stories and bed-related findings. And, when I'm not connecting with my readers, you can find me exploring the great outdoors, or, well, curling up in bed.