The Surprising Reason Your Laundry Might Not Smell Fresh (and How to Fix It!)

Let’s get real for a second: Even the cleanest homes can hide a gross secret-your washing machine is a magnet for mold and mildew. (Yikes, right?) That musty smell you sometimes notice on your “clean” clothes? Blame it on build-up inside your washer and dryer.

But don’t worry-giving your machines a deep clean is easier than you think, and it’s the secret to laundry that actually smells as fresh as it looks. Here’s how to do it the easy, natural way, using products made with the clean, safe ingredients you love from Topanga Scents.

Deep Clean Your Washing Machine

Estimated Time: Just 5 minutes of prep (let your machine do the rest!)

Step 1: Run a Cleaning Cycle

• Start with an empty machine. (Check your washer’s manual for any special instructions.)

• Pour ½ cup of pure white vinegar into the machine’s dispenser.

• Add 2 tablespoons of a chlorine-free, oxygen-based bleach alternative (powder or beads go straight into the drum or detergent dispenser-never the bleach dispenser).

• Run the hottest, longest cycle your machine has.

• When that’s done, run a quick hot water cycle to rinse away any leftover residue.

“Enjoy peace of mind knowing your machine is truly clean-so your clothes can be, too.”

Step 2: Wipe Everything Down

• Grab your favorite Topanga Scents Surface Cleaner (made with clean, plant-based ingredients!) and spritz the fabric softener and bleach dispensers.

• Wipe down the outside of your machine, too. For glass doors, use a streak-free Glass & Mirror Cleaner.

• Stand back and admire your sparkling machine-it’s the fresh start you (and your laundry) deserve.

Deep Clean Your Dryer

Step 1: Say Goodbye to Lint

• Wipe the inside of your dryer drum with a damp cotton or microfiber cloth. This stops lint from clinging to your clean clothes and keeps your dryer running like new.

Step 2: Clean the Filter-Every Time!

• Always clean your dryer filter after each load. A clogged filter isn’t just bad for performance-it’s a fire hazard.

• Not sure how? Check your dryer’s manual for the right way to care for your filter.

“Protect your home and keep your clothes looking their best-it’s a simple act of self-care.”

Pro Tip: Make It a Habit

For best results, give your washer and dryer this deep clean every month or two. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in how fresh your laundry smells and feels.

Ready for the ultimate clean?
Pair these deep cleaning moves with Topanga Scents’ plant-based laundry detergent and multipurpose cleaners. You’ll get unbeatable results and a home that smells amazing-without any harsh chemicals.

You deserve a laundry routine that feels as good as it smells. Start fresh, stay clean, and treat yourself to the peace of mind that comes from using products you trust.

Stay Fresh & Fabulous,

Related Articles:

Want to save some monies? I've got you covered here.

Topanga Laundry Detergent: Plant-Based Power for Fresh and Clean Clothes