A checklist for when your clothes smell of the wardrobe
Short answer: If clothes smell stale or musty when you take them out of the wardrobe, it is usually down to damp and a lack of air. Here is a list that helps you find the cause and get rid of the smell.
Find out where the smell comes from
Start by checking whether the smell is in the clothes or in the wardrobe itself. Take the clothes out and smell them outdoors. If they still smell, it is in the fabric. If only the wardrobe smells, the room needs air. Also check for damp patches on the wall or floor, and whether an outer wall is cold against the wardrobe. It is often the combination of cold and damp that produces the stale smell.
Check whether the clothes were fully dry
The most common cause is that the clothes were put away while still slightly damp. That applies especially to thick seams and socks, which dry slowly. Always let clothes dry completely before folding them, and give them a little extra time if the weather is damp. Clothes that have been worn but not washed should be hung to air rather than going straight into the wardrobe. That spares you many smells.
Wash again and dry well
If the smell has set in the fabric, wash the clothes again according to the care label, often at 30 to 40 degrees. Use a suitable amount of detergent and avoid too much fabric softener, which can hold on to the smell. Let the clothes dry flat or on a hanger in fresh air, preferably outdoors if the weather allows. An extra rinse can help remove residue. See bamboo undershirt for men for base pieces, where you often notice the smell first.
Freshen the wardrobe
Empty the wardrobe, wipe it with a damp cloth and leave the door open so air can get in. Make sure clothes are not packed too tightly, so air can move. Use a moisture absorber if the room is damp, and ventilate daily. A scented sachet or dried herbs can add fragrance, but they do not remove moisture. Do not overfill it, because tightly packed clothes get no air.
Store things properly
When you pack clothes away for a long time, use boxes or bags that can breathe, and avoid sealed plastic bags that trap moisture. Lay clothes flat and not too tightly. Sort so that what you use often is easiest to reach. There are several brands that make clothes from bamboo, including Moodies and Turiform, and wherever the clothes come from, the same rules for drying and storage apply. Check the label for care, so you know what your fabric tolerates.
Prevent it from coming back
Make it a habit to air the wardrobe and check for damp, especially in autumn and winter. Ventilate the bedroom every morning and do not leave wet laundry hanging in the room. If you can, do not place the wardrobe against a cold outer wall, or leave a small gap between wall and wardrobe. If the smell persists and you see signs of mould, contact a professional, as it may need more than airing. If you have symptoms that could be caused by mould, talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Why do clothes smell of the wardrobe
Usually because they were put away damp, or because the wardrobe gets too little air. Cold and damp in the room make it worse.
Does airing the clothes help
Yes, a few hours in fresh air can remove many smells. Hang them in the shade so the colours are not bleached by the sun.
When should I seek help
If you see mould on the wall or clothes, or the smell does not go away, you should have the room checked. If you have symptoms, talk to your doctor.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
