The basement and clothes that smell damp
Short answer: Clothes stored or dried in a basement easily pick up a sour, musty smell. The cause is moisture, which gives microorganisms good conditions to grow. With drier air, proper drying and a little organisation, the basement can be used without your clothes suffering.
Why basements are damp
A basement sits fully or partly below ground, and its walls are in contact with moist soil. The temperature is often lower than in the rest of the house, and cold air can hold less water vapour. When warm, humid air finds its way down into the basement, it cools, and the moisture settles on cold walls and objects. That is why textiles in a basement often feel cool and clammy to the touch, even when they have not been near any water.
Where the smell comes from
The sour smell in damp clothing usually comes from bacteria and mould that grow when the fabric does not dry quickly enough. This happens especially when laundry is dried in a cold room or left folded while it is still slightly damp. The smell sits deep in the fibres and does not go away with airing alone. It needs a fresh wash, followed by drying that is both quick and complete.
Drying in the basement
If you dry laundry in the basement, make sure there is good air circulation. A dehumidifier or a fan can make a big difference. Hang items with plenty of space between them so the air can move around. Light fabrics such as viscose dry fairly quickly, but they still need airflow. Sleepwear such as bamboo nightgowns for women should be completely dry before it is folded and put away.
Storing clothes
Do not store clothes in the basement for long periods if the room is damp. Use sealed boxes with lids rather than cardboard boxes, as cardboard draws in moisture. Only put completely clean and dry clothes in the boxes. A pouch of moisture absorbing granules can keep the air inside the box drier. Check the contents a couple of times a year so any problem is caught early.
When clothes already smell
Wash them again at the highest temperature the care label allows. A little vinegar in the softener compartment can help with odour, but never use vinegar and bleach together. Then dry the clothes quickly, ideally outside in sun and wind, or in a tumble dryer on low heat if the fabric can take it. See pajamas for women if an old set can no longer be saved.
Keeping moisture down throughout the house
Air the rest of the house daily so that less humid air drifts down into the basement. Avoid drying laundry indoors in heated rooms without ventilation. A humidity level of 40 to 60 percent is a good target. If there is visible mould on the walls, it should be looked into properly. You can find other brands in the range under Turiform.
Frequently asked questions
Why do my clothes smell sour after drying in the basement
They dry too slowly and bacteria have time to grow. Add airflow and warmth, or dry the laundry somewhere else.
Can I store clothes in the basement
Yes, if the basement is dry and the clothes are kept in sealed boxes. If it is damp, it is better to find another place.
Does airing the clothes help
Not once the smell is in the fibres. Then they need washing again and drying quickly.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
