Musty Smell Hits 1 in 5 Indoor-Dried Clothes
A 2012 Japanese study reveals microorganisms like Morazella osloensis are to blame, thriving in poor ventilation and prolonged dampness, making your freshly-washed clothes smell sweaty
Clothes can smell musty after drying indoors due to microorganisms that survive the washing and drying process. A 2012 Japanese study published in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that indoor-dried laundry can develop an acidic or sweaty smell due to these microorganisms.
The microorganism Morazella osloensis is one of the major microorganisms linked to this smell. It is frequently found in socks, pillowcases, shirts, and T-shirts, and can remain on fabric for a long time, even after the clothes are washed and dried.
Poor ventilation indoors can lead to clothes taking longer to dry, creating favorable conditions for microorganisms to produce unpleasant-smelling compounds. Prolonged dampness and limited airflow can also contribute to the musty smell in clothes dried indoors.
## Why it matters The musty smell in clothes dried indoors is not just a nuisance, but also a sign of the presence of microorganisms that can survive the washing and drying process. Understanding the causes of this smell can help people take steps to prevent it, such as improving ventilation and reducing dampness.
The smell is not caused solely by the absence of proper washing, but also by the conditions in which the clothes are dried. By being aware of the factors that contribute to the musty smell, people can take action to keep their clothes fresh and clean.
