Washing clothing in the rain: Strategies for improved cleanliness
Washing and Drying Clothes During the Rainy Season: A Guide to Prevent Mold and Odors
Staying on top of laundry during the humid rainy season can be a challenge, but with a few simple steps, you can keep your clothes fresh, clean, and smelling great. Here's a guide to help you navigate the monsoon months.
Firstly, it's essential to adjust your washing routine to combat the increased moisture. Using less detergent and adding white vinegar or disinfectants can help disinfect laundry and neutralize smells naturally. Try using half your usual detergent amount and adding a capful of white vinegar or Dettol in the rinse cycle.
Another crucial step is to perform a double-spin cycle, which can remove up to 90% of water and speed up drying time. This is especially important during humid rainy days.
For stubborn odors, pre-soak clothes in warm water with vinegar for 30–60 minutes or add half a cup of baking soda during the wash cycle to boost cleaning and odor removal.
When it comes to drying, it's best to dry clothes thoroughly and promptly. Remove clothes immediately after washing to prevent moisture retention. If sunlight is unavailable, dry indoors in a well-ventilated space using a dehumidifier, air conditioner, or placing moisture absorbers like rock salt or silica gel near drying racks.
To keep your washing machine mold-free, wipe down and dry all parts of the machine (drum, seals, detergent compartments) after washing, and leave the door open to allow airflow and prevent mold buildup inside the washer.
Using antimicrobial natural additives like pine essential oil (80%+ concentration) can help kill mold and bacteria that cause musty odors, leaving clothes smelling fresh.
Avoid drying clothes indoors if possible to prevent mold growth linked to indoor moisture. If you must dry indoors, use anti-mold sprays in drying areas.
Investing in a good dryer with a large washing and spinning capacity can help save time and energy. The Midea 12/8 kg fully automatic front-loading washer-dryer combo, for example, boasts an innovative water bucket drum that helps surpass stain problems and cleans fabric corners.
Lastly, ironing clothes helps maintain cleanliness and gives them a pleasant smell. Clothes can be washed without sunlight during the rainy season using indoor drying racks, fans, or heated air systems.
By following these practices—proper washing with reduced detergent and vinegar, efficient drying using ventilation or dehumidifiers, machine sanitation, and natural antimicrobial additives—you can minimize mold growth and keep clothes fresh during the humid rainy season.
Style your fashion-and-beauty wardrobe with home-and-garden inspired decorations to create a harmonious living space that exudes freshness and cleanliness.
Keep your laundered clothes smelling great and mold-free by incorporating antimicrobial natural additives like pine essential oil in your washing routine during the humid rainy season.
