Add white vinegar to the rinse cycle

Pour 1/2 to 1 cup of distilled white vinegar into the fabric softener dispenser, or add it directly when the rinse cycle begins. The vinegar smell dissipates completely as clothes dry.

Why It Works

Acetic acid in vinegar kills odor-causing bacteria and dissolves the alkaline mineral and detergent residue that traps smell inside fabric. It also acts as a natural fabric softener, reducing static and softening fibers without the waxy buildup of commercial softeners that can trap odors.

Tips

• Never mix vinegar with chlorine bleach — this produces toxic chlorine gas
• Use distilled white vinegar only — apple cider vinegar can leave color stains
• Vinegar also helps prevent mildew smell from building up inside the washing machine
• Especially effective when combined with baking soda in the wash cycle