Wash Smaller Loads
While you want to aim for full loads to save energy, water, and time, you should never cram more clothes into your machine than it can handle. "The trick to loading the washing machine is to leave room for it to agitate," says Kristin DiNicolantonio, director of communications at the American Cleaning Institute. "Do not stuff or push clothes in and leave several inches at the top of the machine. It can help to put in clothes one by one or in small batches instead of one giant armful."
Don't Let Wet Clothes Sit
Wet clothes that have been left in the washer for too long can develop a mildewy smell if not taken out promptly. While this odor may take a few hours to develop, DiNicolantonio recommends moving your freshly washed clothes to the dryer immediately to prevent them from smelling like mildew.
Use Fabric Softener
Whether you add essential oils to homemade fibric softener or buy an all-natural scented option, the product is a great way to make your clothes smell good. "The ingredients in fabric softeners are deposited onto fabric fibers to help fight wrinkles, reduce static, and add a soft touch and fresh scent to your laundry," says LaLonde.
Treat Stains Quickly
Treating stans that leave lingering odors (like sweat) promptly can help your laundry smell better after cleaning. "Most importantly, you want to deal with the stain as early as possible," says DiNicolantonio. "The less time a stain has to soak in, the easier it will be to remove, although there are ways to remove old stains out of clothes as well."
Use Wool Dryer Balls
Wool dryer balls reduce static cling, speed up drying times, and soften garments. Making wool balls at home gives you the opportunity to infuse them with a natural scent by adding a few drops of essential oils to the wool roving. When you dry your garments with the dryer balls, the scent from the essential oils will give your clothes a fresh smell.