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7 ways to keep clothes fresh, germ-free and odourless using your washing machine
Monsoon season offers relief from summer heat but complicates laundry. High humidity and limited sunlight cause clothes to dry slowly, smell musty, and risk mildew. Using your washing machine effectively is key to keeping clothes clean and fresh during this time. Here are seven tips.
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Clean your washing machine regularly -- A dirty washing machine can transfer odour and germs onto your clothes. Most machines come with a ‘Tub Clean’ mode — use it once every two weeks during Monsoon. For deeper cleaning, add a cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar during the cleaning cycle.
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Wash wet clothes without delay -- Avoid piling up damp clothes after they get wet in the rain. Washing them immediately prevents stains from setting and stops bacteria from multiplying in the moisture. Leaving them in a laundry basket or inside the washing machine drum only increases the chances of bad odour and fabric damage.
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Add a fabric conditioner to your rinse cycle -- Using a fabric conditioner helps reduce musty smells and leaves clothes feeling soft and fresh. It also prevents static build-up and makes ironing easier, especially when clothes are air-dried indoors.
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Use the ‘Turbo Dry’ or fast dry modes -- Many modern washing machines have dedicated drying options like AirTurbo or TurboDry. These settings spin clothes at high speeds to remove excess water. While not a complete replacement for sun drying, they help reduce moisture faster. Avoid using these settings for delicate fabrics.
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Disinfect your laundry -- Add a mild disinfectant liquid during the wash cycle to remove germs and bacteria, particularly if you’re washing kids’ clothes or garments exposed to rain. These solutions are widely available and safe for use in most machines.
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Ensure proper air-drying -- Even if your machine dries clothes partially, always air-dry them in a well-ventilated space. Use hangers to allow better airflow, and avoid folding clothes until they’re fully dry.
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Avoid overloading the drum -- During Monsoon, it’s best to wash fewer clothes at a time. Overloading reduces wash effectiveness and delays drying.
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