I've tried everything to get my laundry smelling springtime fresh. I've tried too much soap, too little soap, long wash times, triple rinses, vinegar, borax -- and my laundry rarely smells like anything other than wet clothes when it emerges. Surf used to leave clothes smelling nice, but they don't seem to make it any more. Any ideas?
I'm a huge fan of Tide with Bleach. Then, add Clorox 2 color safe bleach. Then, Bounce fabric softener for the dryer (LOVE the new ones with the "fresh all day" dots or whatever they are).
If you have laundry that was left in the washer too long and it smells musty, then do all of the above, but with a hot water wash. It even works for stinky rugby player clothes! =)
You have a lot of great responses hope you were able to fix the problem. I use Safeway brand soap and the bounce dryer sheets. One thing I do in my drawers (socks and underwear) I put a bounce sheet so that even when they sit in the drawer they aren't getting the musty smell. I also fluff my clothes in the dryer with a bounce before I wear them seems to help and the towels always smell nice.
Good luck.
I really like Tide with Febreeze. Everything smells great.
Arm and Hammer (baking soda company) has a product made to add to laundry, that should be found in the laundry aisle, which doesn't leave a scent, but might help get out any negative smell from the laundry. Also try using fabric/mesh bags of dry lavender in the drier...they used to carry some at Trader Joes, or you could make some yourself.
Hi, Page W--
If fragrance is what you are looking for in your laundry, it will only add toxin to your system because the ingredient that is being added to the detergent to make the laundry smells fragrant is toxic. Whenever the sun is out, I always take advantage of the free and natural heat and air to dry my laundry.
I use Ultra Ecos Free and Clear All Natural Laundry Detergent. I found it at Lucky Vitamins (mail order) after a long search for a natural and safe laundry detergent. It is unscented, petrochemical-free, formaldehyde-free, and has neutral pH. My laundry smells clean and fresh after it is air-dried under the sun. And static-free, too.
Getting back to the old-time practices seems to add more years to life. One gets less toxin, uses less energy, and engages in mild exercise, too.
E. C
Hi Page,
I add two-four drops of pharmaceutical grade pure essential oil to the water as the washer is filling up. You can buy many different fragrances at the health food store. Laundry comes our with a pleasant, chemical free odor. It's not too strong and just makes everything smell fresh.
