Doing laundry can be tricky with rainfall becoming increasingly unpredictable. Nothing is more frustrating than washing piles of clothes only for them to turn out damp and smelly because of the gloomy weather.
Appliance brand Electrolux shares the following tips that can be helpful in keeping newly washed garments clean, fresh, and vibrant this rainy season:
Use dryers to avoid accumulating moisture
A common dilemma in the rainy season is being unable to hang clothes in the sun for drying. Oftentimes, they end up in an area with little air and space to dry which causes moisture to get trapped and accumulate, leading to that unpleasant and notorious kulob smell.
The best solution is to invest in a dryer. The Electrolux UltimateCare Washer Dryer delivers excellent results in keeping clothes dry because of its Smart Sensor feature, which also prevents harmful over-drying. Moreover, it’s a 2-in-1 machine that can also wash clothes efficiently. It’s a great choice for those looking to buy a dryer without needing to worry about extra space in the house.
Combat stains while protecting color
If clothes become stained with mud and dirt from the rain, it’s ideal to wipe them away before they set. For older stains, vinegar or baking soda have often been recommended as tried and tested solutions of cleaning them. Some stains, however, are harder to remove, which may lead to using excessive detergent and over-washing, which may then lead to color-fading.
The UltimateCare washing machines effectively remove stains while keeping clothes’ colors vibrant. Through its UltraMix Technology, this washing machine fully dissolves detergent to deliver a deeper clean. It also has a Load Sensor Automation feature which displays the recommended amount of detergent based on the weight of clothes.
Use fabric conditioner
Rainfall tends to rough up clothes, causing them to break down and lose their texture. It also brings out the earthy scent of wet soil that can stick to clothing. Moreover, damp conditions create the ultimate breeding ground for bacteria on clothes.
Using fabric conditioner as the last step of washing is a good way to combat these problems. Fabric conditioner helps soften and improve the texture of clothing, while also keeping them smelling great even through the rain. On top of that, some fabric conditioners also boast anti-bacterial properties.
Keep washing machine clean
Although washing machines were made to clean clothes, people often forget that the appliance itself also needs to be maintained. The rainy season brings with it soiled clothes and moist environments, which can cause residues of dirt, mold, and mildew to build up and produce strange odors in your washing machine, even if you fill it with laundry detergent.
To clean a washing machine, run a wash cycle with the machine empty. This clears out any detergent that has built up in the machine. It is best to always wipe it inside and out for any residues that may have built up. It is also best to use a washing machine cover to protect it from heat, mold, and moisture.
Place scented items or odor eliminators in closet
Even after being washed, most clothes tend to lose that fresh, clean scent after being placed in the closet for a few days. To ensure they don’t develop a stale smell, try adding essential oils to the closet. Dab a few drops of the oil on cotton balls then place it in the corner of the closet.
Another alternative is coffee grounds. Reuse the grounds by placing it in a container with holes, then put it in the closet. Other recommended fragrance enhancers are scented dryer sheets, silica packets for shoes, baking soda, or strongly scented wood.