How to Keep Clothes Smelling Fresh in Your Custom Closets

What Causes a Closet to Smell?

Closet odors can be a puzzling thing, especially if you launder and dry your clothes properly. So, what causes them in the first place? There could be many reasons, some of which include:

• Dampness: Clothing stored when slightly wet (either from sweat or damp from the dryer) can trap odors.
• Dark Environment: Closets without windows are perfect for mold and mildew growth.
• Poor Airflow: Closets rarely have vents to promote airflow, which means the air inside your closet is stagnant and stale.
• Foul Smelling Items: Storing sweaty or smelly clothing or shoes introduces odors that can be absorbed by clean clothes.
• Moisture Near The Master Bathroom: Many closets are located next to the master bathroom. Unless you run the exhaust fan, moisture from hot showers will make its way to your closet, dampening your clothes.
• Absorbent Clothing: Cotton, wool, and other materials act like sponges to the odors in the air. Unfortunately, any odors present in your closet will end up in these fabrics.

Prevent Odors

The best way to keep your clothes smelling fresh is by preventing odors altogether! While you can't change your home to include windows or vents in your closets, minimizing dampness in those areas goes a long way in preventing odors. 

Make sure that your clothes are completely dry before storing them. If they feel even slightly damp after laundering, run them through the dryer a second time. It might be inconvenient, but it will save you time in the long run! Additionally, always wash sweaty clothing before storing, and run the exhaust fan during hot showers.

Reduce odor exposure by letting sweaty shoes dry before storing them in your closet. Once there, place your collection on fences or shelves to promote airflow. If your laundry hamper is located in your closet, consider having a separate hamper in the laundry room for sweaty clothes. Finally, be on the lookout for the telltale signs of moisture. 

Eliminate Odors

If you notice a musty smell in your closet, your first inclination might be to spray air freshener or add an extra dryer sheet to the laundry. But the smell is an indication that moisture is present; this should be addressed, not disguised. Here are some ways to absorb odors:

• Vinegar on Clothes: Add one tablespoon of distilled vinegar & mix it with your favorite fabric softener to naturally deodorize your clothes.
• Vinegar in Your Closet: Leave a bowl of white vinegar in your closet to absorb unwanted odors. You can also mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a plastic spray bottle; spray the solution in your closet, but make sure it's empty when you do so. Have no fear, the smell disappears when dry!
• Activated Charcoal: Place a small amount of activated charcoal in a baggie and change it out periodically. A standout feature of this tool is that it can be reused again and again. The secret? Let your charcoal "catch some rays." The sun will help remove collected odors.
• Coffee Grounds: Place fresh coffee grounds in a porous container to absorb odors and freshen your closet. Experiment with your favorite blends and find the one you like best.
• Baking Soda: An open box of baking soda works wonders for trapping odors in your refrigerator, but it can work in your closets, too!

Use Your Favorite Scents

Once you've neutralized the odors in your closet, there's nothing wrong with using a pleasant scent to keep your clothes smelling fresh! Luckily, this is the easiest part. Experiment with the following methods:

• Dryer Sheets: While dryer sheets can be used in the dryer, you can also use them in your closets. They absorb odors and leave a refreshing scent behind.
• Essential Oils: Perhaps the purest form of scents, essential oils can be used individually or in combination. Simply add some to a tissue or cotton ball and leave it on a shelf in your closet.
• Wood: Strong-smelling wood such as sandalwood or cedar will bring a robust scent to your clothes. With cedar, be aware that the oils do stain clothes. Prevent this by placing a handful of cedar chips in a plastic container, poke a few holes, and you'll be all set!
• Air and Fabric Fresheners: These quick and simple sprays give an instant boost of freshness to your closets and clothes. However, they do not eliminate odors completely, just neutralize them temporarily.
• Potpourri: This herbal remedy is tried and true to clear up stale air. It's even easy to make at home, like this recipe from The Spruce.

Conclusion

Preventing odors from entering your storage areas is the best way to keep them fresh. Try out some or all of the methods mentioned above to make your custom closets smell fresh and free of unpleasant odors!

Sources

• https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-make-potpourri-1316138