How to tell a friend their clothes smell and it's because they aren't drying them properly?

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mycatiscalledFrodo@reddit

Sounds like they CANT dry them properly, so unless you are willing to buy & run a tumble dryer for them or have the ability to change their situation i wouldn't say anything.

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A dehumidifier is about £100 and then pennies per hour to dry. Not cheap, but definitely closer to manageable than changing flat or buying a tumble dryer (which is more expensive, much bigger, and often fucks up your clothes).

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fatknits@reddit

But they may not have £100 to spend on a dehumidifier. I've definitely been in the position in the past where scrounging up even a spare tenner was almost impossible, so someone telling me to 'just buy a dehumidifier' would be awful.

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Slyspy006@reddit

Of course, this might be the situation. But that doesn't stop the suggestion being the correct one.

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Correct-Couple8086@reddit

A condenser tumble dryer takes up considerably less space than hanging your clothes/bedding/towels on everything available for days on end. I'd be saving up for one rather than persisting with a dehumidifier personally.

I had a normal one years ago and hung the pipe out of the window, but now I've got a condenser and it works great. I don't find it ruins clothes, but there's certain things like wooly jumpers and football tops I don't put in there. Far easier to manage than drying everything I own though .

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Tryingmybestsorta@reddit

My dehumidifier is worth it’s weight in gold I swear

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Arch_0@reddit

I bought a Meaco and I love it. The only down side is the noise so I don't keep it in the middle of the house like it recommends but it still works. No more smelly clothes like OP describes. I just feel healthier in the winter with it too.

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GoGoRoloPolo@reddit

I got a smart one so I can schedule it to run at night. It's got the benefit of coming on after we're asleep so no noise to notice, and I have cheaper electricity for 4 hours at night too.

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Arch_0@reddit

Night is when I don't want it to be loud! I just let it run 24/7 and if it annoys me I wheel it round the corner.

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GoGoRoloPolo@reddit

Fair enough, everyone has a different tolerance to white noise at night. Still, the smart one could be scheduled to run when you leave the house, for example.

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Tryingmybestsorta@reddit

Mine is a Meaco too and I agree it is louder than I had hoped, but eventually kinda turns into a background white noise I find?

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R_Spc@reddit

Likewise, ours has made a huge difference to the amount of damp and window condensation we get during the colder months, from 'loads' to 'almost nothing.'

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GoGoRoloPolo@reddit

Almost nothing? Probably should get a bigger one. My window condensation is absolutely nothing with my dehumidifier.

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Hundike@reddit

You don't need a tumble drier to dry clothes. I live in the UK, dry clothes inside, open a window a little and put the heating on - they'll dry fine.

Also a proper laundry routine on 40 degrees with a powder/gel with lipase and some oxygen peroxide will make the garments clean and not smell.

It's likely a combination of the two that is causing the problem.

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0nethirstybitch@reddit

Doesn’t the oxygen peroxide (google tells me this is the same as hydrogen peroxide) cause fabrics to discolour? I used it once on white towels to remove a blood stain and it turned them yellow, even in areas where there wasn’t any blood. Since then I’ve been very careful not to get it on any fabrics

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WelshNurse1997@reddit

The heated airers are amazing & cheap to run, been using them for a few years and saved on heating the house

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CindysExtraTesticle@reddit

Sounds like your friend is in a bad spot living wise. Why not offer the solution? Help out by offering space to hang a wash or two, or let them use you dryer a couple of times a week.

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ConsciousSky5968@reddit

Just tell her. I’d appreciate the honesty from friends. Maybe suggest a dehumidifier as well. They’re pretty cheap to run and they help so much drying clothes inside!!

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Normal-Height-8577@reddit

Or one of those Lakeland airers with the cover that blows hot air through all the laundry!

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Slyspy006@reddit

In this case though all it is doing is filling the room with the moisture from the washing, which might cause other issues. Better to use a dehumidifier which will capture that moisture whilst drying the washing.

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SuzLouA@reddit

I see heated airers getting a lot of shit compared to dehumidifiers for indoor drying - I think the vital word here as you’ve said is cover. With a cover to trap the warm air, they’re dead good; without one they’re shite, unless you just want one stripe of dry.

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zq6@reddit

Disagree - if covered, the laundry is surrounded by humid air. If the air has 100% humidity the laundry will never dry even if it's at 40°C.

We use both - heated rack and dehumidifier. It's made a huge difference.

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TheBestBigAl@reddit

A friend of mine had one of those covered heated racks, and the room they used it in was full of mold very shortly after they bought it. So if OP does suggest one to their friend make sure they know that the water needs to go somewhere, so they need to either open a window or get a dehumidifier.

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ChunkyBezel@reddit

The cover has mesh vents at the top and bottom (ours does anyway), so you should get a good convective airflow through the clothes.

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Rudahn@reddit

We use two big bath towels over the top of ours and it does a great job - the hot air still escapes in the gap between them and around the bottom, but it traps enough to dry things overnight rather than taking days to dry on an unheated airer.

We also crack a window in the room as well otherwise the humidity in the house climbs too - a dehumidifier does the trick if you have one.

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meowcatpanda@reddit

Yeah, I had to convince my partner to stop covering the heated drying rack and miraculously the washing is dry FAR quicker now (he didn't believe me when I said it was just trapping warm moist...)

Dehumidifier is on the list for this years black friday sales, but even without one our washing is dry within a day with the heated drying rack and not musty (I'm VERY sensitive to that smell and have made my partner rewash the washing before, for leaving it in the machine too long🙈)

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Spiritual-Peach-4032@reddit

We run a dehumidifier next to two racks of washing (well spaced out) in front of the radiator with a rad fan on it (so blowing the warm air at the washing. It works really well, costs very little, keeps the house toasty and the washing smelling clean.

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Normal-Height-8577@reddit

Agreed. I don't have one myself, but I've heard good things. In a home with restricted space, this is one gadget I'd save up for - it dries fast and without mildew, and then you can pack it away until next week.

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Say-whaaaaat@reddit

These absolutely do not work well, even with the fancy cover and they're very expensive in electricity. A dehumidifier (optionally also with a fan running) works so much better, and is cheaper to run.

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jenncatt4@reddit

You don't need the air blower one necessarily, but something like the Lakeland heated airer rack ~plus~ the cover (you can totally chuck a duvet cover over it in a pinch, I did until I could afford the cover too), ~plus~ a decent size dehumidifier and keeping a fanlight window slightly open at all times. I had the heated airer for a couple of years without the bigger dehumidifier and basically destroyed the wallpaper nearby with mould, that was a mistake.

Another major thing is using laundry disinfectant to cut the amount of bacteria down!! Dettol do one and there a load of own brands.

During winter in my crappily insulated flat, clothes still get cold and feel damp again even after they've been dried... Often I end up leaving everything on the heated dryer under the cover and switching it on every so often, and then wrapping them up in a blanket bundle while they're still warm!

Running an air purifier also helps with the musty smell too...

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SnooMacarons9618@reddit

Yeah. I don't get why people think this is a delicate issue, it isn't. It's not a dig at them personally, it's a comment on their situation.

I'm normally quite blunt about things, but I am very careful (often overly), about personal matters. In this case it's not a personal matter, it does need to be stated in those terms though. Something like "Is your flat not getting ventilation? It's just that sometimes your clothes tend to have a lingering damp odour, I know how people living in damp homes sometimes don't notice and they can get quite ill. Please, do look after yourself." Or something a bit more like talking to a friend - make the odour a secondary point to concern over their health, ask if there is anything you can help with. Maybe read up on damp flats before hand so there is a point of connection.

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lelpd@reddit

Unfortunately, it is a delicate. A friend of mine always used to smell of BO on nights out. One evening me and another friend thought we need to finally say something because we don’t want him to keep embarrassing himself.

When we gave him a polite (or as polite as you can be about it) heads up about it, he went really arsey, called us dickheads and went home.

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WanderWomble@reddit

I think you meant well but did it the wrong way, because he was already out and couldn't really do anything about it. It would have been better to tell him the day before, so he had chance to actually make changes.

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paulmclaughlin@reddit

"We" rather than "I" or "one of us" is probably the faux pas there.

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d3montree@reddit

Probably would have been better just to gently tell him he's stinky sometimes, and not suggest it's due to lack of hygiene. He can work out how to fix it himself, or ask for advice if he wants.

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lelpd@reddit

I don’t know, I wouldn’t really want to hear your comment from somebody

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FitEstablishment2401@reddit

The musty smell is much less personal to bring up though - it's not about lack of hygiene, it's just clothes taking too long to dry in damp homes. I would much prefer to be told my clothes smell damp than that I have BO

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Baddog1965@reddit

Well done for trying though.

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scottishsam07@reddit

Or. Read up about it in her presence, navigate to the "how to make your clothes smell better in these conditions" section.

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pipopipopipop@reddit

Well, they might not be able to afford a dehumidifier to be fair, so it could feel embarrassing to have to smell pointed out if they aren't in a position to change it.

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LostTomatillo2752@reddit

We bought one from the middle aisle at Aldi for £50-60 five years ago and it's still going strong; always amazes me how quickly the bucket fills up. For two loads of laundry spun twice, we only need to run it for 5 hours and most things are bone dry except my husband's thick hoodies need a bit more air drying.

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deathbeforebrevity@reddit

Second the idea to suggest a better dehumidifier. A high level of damp and humidity will make mould start growing, especially on anything absorbent like cork or wicker. Better ventilation will help a little but not massively if it’s still humid outside. It’ll be less expensive and less of a headache to get a proper dehumidifier now, then have to throw out stuff in her house because it’s all gotten mouldy

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Numerous-Outcome6215@reddit

As someone who lives in a studio flat with no tumble dryer, this is how I do it:

1) Take the clothes out of the washing machine as soon as they are done. If you leave clothes in there when they’ve been finished for a while, it’s much easier for that musty mildew smell take hold.

2) As many people have suggested here, I use a dehumidifier and I hang my washing on drying racks near an open window. I am mostly just relying on the dehumidifier now as my flat gets really cold when I have the window open, but sometimes I’ll just suck it up and wrap up with extra layers so my clothes get ‘window time’.

3) I regularly clean my washing machine using this product from Dettol (I’ll try and find it so I can paste a link). I also make sure to use matching scents for my fabric softener and detergent, and I’ve taken to using scent boosters for stuff like towels and other things that can hang on to odor. Laundry sanitiser can help too, but go easy on it if you have sensitive skin.

My mum was a professional cleaner and I can always count on her to tell me when something doesn’t smell right. So far no comments on my clothes that have been dried inside, so fingers crossed I’ve been getting it right. Hope these tips help your friend OP.

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snail_1234@reddit

If she rents she could ask the landlord/landlady for a dehumidifier. Just tell her you got one and it works wonders and she could try one as well.

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Zoobar86@reddit

Just be honest.

A normal fan actually does a decent job. Don't overload the clothes airer, point the fan at it and let it do its thing.

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Various-Vehicle-8860@reddit

All they need to do is open the window whilst drying them

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MurderousButterfly@reddit

If she rents, she can ask her landlord to get a dehumidifier for them. If their clothes are smelling they are likely increasing the risk of mould in the flat and once that's in, it's a right bastard to get out again. If she frames it as an issue for the house, they should (if they're a decent landlord) get one to save the flat problems further down the line.

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Brave_Sherbet7708@reddit

lol most landlords/letting agents simply tell you not to dry clothes on the radiator as it causes mould. Never came across one that would provide a dehumidifier but that would be great

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Nice_Back_9977@reddit

What are you expecting her to be able to do about it? All the solutions to dry the clothes quicker involve spending money on energy which it sounds like she doesn’t have.

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TannyTevito@reddit

Vinegar in the rinse cycle and a fan while they dry- very cheap fix

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laz0rtears@reddit

I had a friend I lived with who would leave their laundry in the machine for hours then proceed to hang the laundry with no space in-between each item of clothing, items overlapping - that on top of a poorly ventilated flat, their clothes smelt damp too. It might be that op's friend needs tools: • smaller loads more often • an extra spin cycle to help it dry • spaced out on the drying rack properly

So even before money comes into it, there might be solutions for the friend that they can try first.

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Nice_Back_9977@reddit

OP says this started with the colder weather.

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TheChookOfChickenton@reddit

Something she could for "free" is an extra spin cycle and also make sure to ventilate the room properly by opening the window. She could also have a look on FB marketplace or local share groups to keep an eye out for a cheap or free dehumidifier. Laundry disinfectant in the softener drawer also helps to kill existing bacteria that have built up on the clothes.

I live in a one bedroom flat with almost zero space nor do I own a tumble dryer. I had the same issue as OPs friend and I started doing the above things and now hardly ever have an issue with the damp smell. I'm also very financially comfortable but I am renting at the moment and can't adjust my living space too much. I don't think it's fair to assume that OPs friend doesn't have the money to solve the issue. Some people just become noseblind or haven't been taught how to do their laundry properly.

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getoutmywayatonce@reddit

This is good advice to all. I’m in a studio flat and my clothes don’t smell damp. There’s definitely methods even as simplistic as changing the washing products. I’ve found some brands of detergents made clothes reek if they’re not bone dry ASAP whereas other brands keep heavier stuff smelling neutral and normal even if it takes 1-2 days to dry.

The easier winter workaround for me is doing multiple proper loads starting in the morning, hanging them all up to start drying off and when the last wash is done taking the lot to the nearest laundrette to run through the dryer in the afternoon. I spend about a fiver in tumble drying every 2 weeks to do this, and notice many others coming to do the same.

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Backinamo@reddit

Definitely helps. The extra spin cycle. Good advice.

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mata_dan@reddit

It'll be the mouldy washing machine, so easy email to the landlord or letting agency then wait as they do nothing then blame it on you (it is the occupants fault though ultimately probably but it's an HMO).

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Karen_Is_ASlur@reddit

Whatever it takes. You can't be walking around stinking.

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Nice_Back_9977@reddit

You could be a little bit kinder and less judgey though. That's an option.

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ClassicPart@reddit

The general public are going to think a whole lot worse than whatever they will tell their friend. Sort yourself out.

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Nice_Back_9977@reddit

The general public as a whole could do with being kinder and less judgemental

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Karen_Is_ASlur@reddit

What I have I got to do with it? Plenty of people will judge you if you smell, it's as simple as that. Nothing you can say will change that. It's a deeply ingrained subconscious response to recoil from unpleasant smells.

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Meronkulous@reddit

They're not wrong though, they just worded it a bit harshly...

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Electricbell20@reddit

What are you expecting her to be able to do about it?

Ventilating the drying space is simple enough. It doesn't matter what you try, damp air needs to be removed for the clothes to dry.

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-Incubation-@reddit

Having previously lived in a shitty flat with awful electric heaters - if there are no other options regarding heat or buying dehumidifiers, it's to ensure the washing is adequately spread across a clothes horse/airer (eg. let t-shirts/bottoms be fully spread across a whole section of bars rather than trying to fit as much as possible on it) with as much ventilation as possible.

Ideally you put the heaviest stuff, eg. Jeans closest to the ventilation first and try to turn them over after a few hours. Sometimes you're lucky to have a bathroom with an extractor fan - which can also be used to help dry up washing.

If all else fails, you'll need to have a nose like a sniffer dog to ensure you don't leave the house wearing something that even has a hint of damp. What people don't realise is that whilst it initially might not smell strong, the smell only gets more intense as you naturally create heat from wearing it.

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Winderige_Garnaal@reddit

A fan / ventilation tower is often enough. Or an open window. It's about air movement, not heat as much.

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One-Program6244@reddit

During conversation, bring up some ongoing online discussion about mould and damp in the house, other peoples stories, what you saw on Fb or Tick tok or somewhere.

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banxy85@reddit

This is pretty manipulative tho compared to just being a good friend and outright telling them

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Brave_Sherbet7708@reddit

I think you've misunderstood the meaning of manipulative.

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Busy-Doughnut6180@reddit

I disagree. It's a way of bringing something to her attention without putting her in the hot seat. It also shows how it's a common issue and not some moral failing on her part, which is how some people feel about cleanliness and hygiene. I think this is the kindest approach, it saves her some embarrassment and also doesn't assume she's ignorant to the situation.

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Top_Mode9443@reddit

Would you be able to offer any help with drying the clothes? I am in a studio flat and had to buy a tumble dryer because living in a small space with wet clothes drying all the time can cause breathing issues. They are expensive to run but I have seen a huge improvment so it was worth it.

I guess the heated clothes racks could help if she has the space. You could tell her that her clothes smell of damp but I cant see how she would be able to change anything if everything is working against her. Its still to hot for the radiators to be on all the time (if she has any control over the heating). Try and bring up the issue about drying clothes and breathing issues but only if you have a laundrette nearby, she has access to a tumble dryer via you or someone else close or find a way for her to get heated clothes racks if she can afford them or has space.

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fatknits@reddit

Question for someone else who lives in a very small space - where did you find the room to put a tumble dryer? I'd love to get one, but I can't think of anywhere one would fit.

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ProofLegitimate9990@reddit

If you have not quite a full size space for a tumble dryer i highly recommend one of these:

HOMCOM 6kg Vented Tumble Dryer,... https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CJ8S5FLV?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Bought one 3 months ago and it’s changed my life lol. Drys way more than 6kg easily too.

If your that pushed for space i would try the tabletop 3kg one.

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Entire_Doubt_3416@reddit

Didn’t read all the comments so not sure if someone’s already suggested it but one cheap alternative that I often use is mixing a small amount of fabric conditioner (usually concentrated that has a stronger smell) in with water into a bottle spray. As soon as my clothes are out the washer I spritz them from a distance (so it’s just a fresh mist) with the conditioner mix and leave the clothes to dry (sometimes on radiators, sometimes on hangers in the doorways of my home) if they’re taking a little longer to dry I spritz them again before going up to bed just to make sure they don’t get that musty damp smell. House and clothes always smell like fresh washing.

I know not everyone likes the perfume / chemical element of fabric conditioner but maybe you could find a similar alternative if this is the case?

Maybe if you’re nervous about telling your friend then tell them you’ve found a new hack for yourself and upsell it so they try it themselves without the need to prompt them ? X

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mata_dan@reddit

Then you're just masking the smell while making it more likely to actually get the smell too.

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Mr_Bumcrest@reddit

Like that.

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Single_Orchid_3650@reddit

Yikes.... This is a delicate situation.. I had something similar with my brother a few years back - he'd seen an Internet "hack" that distilled white vinegar was a suitable replacement for laundry detergent/softener, and let's just say..... You could tell when he was nearby....

It will be a difficult conversation.. The key thing is to remind them you're coming from a place of love, you care greatly about them, and it's probably best to hear it from you, rather than someone spiteful. Tell them the issue, but offer suggestions on a solution. Frame it in a way that you're trying to help them overcome it, rather than just pointing out they smell.

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mata_dan@reddit

White vinegar is the actual substitute for softener that actually does the job properly. Not detergent though!

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iainrfharper@reddit

Great suggestion in terms of approach. In terms of suggestions for a solution I’m in a similar situation and a heated clothes rack with cover has been the answer to our problems. Like this one: https://www.lakeland.co.uk/25372/dry-soon-3-tier-heated-airer-and-cover-bundle

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birchblonde@reddit

I’d actually hate this approach. ”I love you, and I say this from a place of care…” while I have to sit there and grow increasingly embarrassed as I wait for them to get to the point. It’s so pitying.

I’d rather a short, factual statement and then a swift move on so I don’t really have to reply.

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kachuroo@reddit

Another source of that damp musty smell can be from the washing machine. Modern washing methods often see us washing our clothes at 30° or 40°, which can lead to a build up of sludge/slime in the machine and drainage pipe. If you're often doing boil washes at 90° it's not a problem, but otherwise you need to do a service wash every month or so. Some machines have a specific service wash cycle, while others just rely on you running a boil wash every once in a while.

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mata_dan@reddit

Exactly, and it's an HMO so guarantee the other 3 rooms aren't looking after the machine properly either.

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Busy-Doughnut6180@reddit

We've recently had this issue. For us it was also the use of laundry pods. Apparently they don't dissolve properly. Originally it was only me who used them, and I keep a minimal wardrobe of similar colours so I'd only be using the washing machine 2-3 a week. But then my family also switched to pods as well, and they run the machine constantly. And always on a 30 or 40. I'm also usually the towels washer and throw them in on a 90 but I've been busier than normal and my family have done it instead the last couple of times (probably on a 40).

It's only been a few months of this and this week, my last couple of washes smelt of mildew. The first one I assumed was because I didn't dry them properly with the change of the season, but the second batch had most of the water spun out of it and dried fast, but smelt even worse.

I ran a cleaner through the machine on a 90 but tbh after finding out about gunk and mould build up, I'm a bit grossed out and not convinced the cleaner worked, so I haven't used it again. Machine's on its last legs anyway so we've got a new one coming in the next couple of days. And I'll personally be switching back to liquid detergent for normal washes and powder for the towels and sheets once a week. I found out that powder has some component to it that helps keep the machine clean, but needs a hot wash. New machine also has a clean cycle with a reminder every so and so washes.

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haywire@reddit

Have you considered telling her

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VerityPee@reddit

Once the smell is there, you’ll need something to get it out. I recommend starting with Detol laundry sanitiser which is really helpful

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mata_dan@reddit

Wash the machine with that on a hot wash first, before putting your clothes in. Otherwise you'll pick up all the scum from the other 3 rooms that has been infesting the washing machine without anyone looking after it properly, it's an HMO.

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gonetospacebrb@reddit

Agreed! The Tesco own brand version is also very good if the Dettol brand is on the pricy side for people.

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VerityPee@reddit

Oh, I haven’t tried that, I shall have a look, thank you!

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mudlouse@reddit

This is good advice. We sometimes notice the same with hand towels, which succumb to the mouldy smell much faster because they are always in use. Difficult to get rid of in a normal wash, and can’t always wash at 60c, so the clothes sanitiser is a good alternative.

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mata_dan@reddit

In an HMO it'll be the washing machine, absolutely guaranteed to be choc a block with mould.

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Embarrassed_Park2212@reddit

I've dried my clothes inside for years, with little ventilation, and can count on one hand the amount of times I've had the not dried musky stink. I usually dry them in the hallway and it's pretty damn cold in my hallway even with the heating on. If I need the clothes more urgently I put the clothes airer in my living room when I go to bed and they'll be dry the next morning.

It sounds like your friend is either not spinning the water out enough or putting too many clothes together so there isn't much room for the air to move around them to dry, could even be a bit of both. They probably can smell it but it doesn't bother them.

How do you approach this. Just be honest and tell her that her clothes stink. I mean you could dance around the issue but just be brave.

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unproblematic_name@reddit

My dryer broke recently and while I was waiting for the repair man to show up I bought a heated clothes airer on amazon. It's great, really cheap to run and you can fit a midsize load on it, it folds down so doesn't take much space when not in use. Could be a solution!

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Subtifuge@reddit

if they cannot afford to run a dehumidifier (or to buy a decent one) when it rains and I thus cannot use the line I use a really high-power fan and a clothes horse, costs pennies to run it, like literally makes no difference to my bill, give the clothes an extra spin cycle or 2 and then on the clothes horse, fan blowing through the middle, the air movement obviously stops the mold and bacteria from settling and the damp smell, even works for thick things like towels if there is adaquate space between the items on the clothes horse.

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Prestigious_Emu6039@reddit

If you cant bear to tell her perhaps consider slipping an anonymous note under her door.

If you simply wrote "You smell" this would be offensive but effective. or if you want a less direct approach choose your own words.

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Direct-Country4028@reddit

What does it smell like? Is it the same smell as when you leave your washed clothes in the washing machine too long before hanging them out? Cuz if that’s what it smells like, she would definitely know but is hoping no one else realises.

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PompousTart@reddit

Along with the dehumidifier recommendation, Dettol Laundry Sanitiser has been a godsend for us. It's not particularly cheap, but at least your clothes get ahead start by being sanitised in the washing machine before you dry them.

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TransportationNo9832@reddit

Well it’s nearly Christmas, and you thought you’d get your friend that great de humidifier everyone is talking about

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weatherwaxs_broom@reddit

I would absolutely tell my friend as tactfully as I could, because it's not only smelly but it can wreck your clothes!

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meowcatpanda@reddit

Buy them a heated drying rack for Christmas! We've got one of those (same kind of living situation as your friends) and our stuff is dry in like a day (and we put FAR too much stuff on ours, it could be dry much faster). We splurged last year and bought one off Amazon that was like 100£, it works amazing and our cat loves sleeping on it while it's on😂

Alternatively, if they're good friends just tell them "hun, your clothes smell a little musty" cause honestly wouldn't you rather someone told you?

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Old_Singer_217@reddit

Tricky but you're doing the right thing! I'd go with: 'This is awkward but I care about you - your clothes might have that indoor-drying smell. Happens to loads of people! White vinegar or Dettol in the wash helps tons, and cracking windows while drying makes a huge difference.' Private, kind, and practical!

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Backinamo@reddit

Its Christmas soon. Are you able to afford to purchase her a heated clothes dryer?

https://www.robertdyas.co.uk/daewoo-3-tier-heated-clothes-airer?cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=23013673429&cq_term=&cq_plac=&cq_net=x&cq_plt=gp&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23013676267&gbraid=0AAAAACf0mw1RQzr0NJ3HJm5JMLqecOZMf&gclid=CjwKCAiAlMHIBhAcEiwAZhZBUtMmqtYwwbWDnRz13B5NbGK-ehGI6Z1-2q6zlfDPqvPZ9_22jPW-6hoCyEkQAvD_BwE

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Sudden-Earth-824@reddit

I started using white vinegar in my washing earlier this year and it makes such a difference, I've not had musty clothes since! I agree with other people , have a polite convo with them and use this white vinegar as a suggestion.

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Apprehensive-Run9276@reddit

This is so thoughtful of you! Maybe approach it gently like 'Hey, I noticed your clothes might have that damp smell - happens to everyone in winter! Have you tried white vinegar in the wash or those moisture absorber boxes? They're game-changers for small flats.' Frame it as helpful tips, not criticism. You're a good friend for caring!

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throwmeloose@reddit

She probably knows but can’t do much about it lmao

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Yellow_cupcake_@reddit

You could suggest a heated clothes horse? They aren’t that expensive and are also fairly cheap to run.

How to bring it up kind of depends on your friend. Some people like to be told straight, some people would prefer some subtlety to save embarrassment.

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Tallicababe123@reddit

I'm now on amazon looking at heated clothes airers.

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semorebunz@reddit

get a dehumidifier instead , similar running costs but it takes the damp out of the whole home vs the drying rack releases the water back into the room

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ams3000@reddit

Any brand recommendations please for the dehumidifier?

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Most-Island-7043@reddit

Meaco - can be a little pricey but well worth it. The tiny ones virtually do nothing.

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callisstaa@reddit

I have a pretty small 13 litre Xiaomi one and it works like a dream.

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Most-Island-7043@reddit

I should have said by tiny I meant around 1 litre as that was the first dehumidifier I bought and it did pretty much nothing haha.

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ams3000@reddit

Good tip. Thanks.

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Prestigious_Tour5652@reddit

I've had my probreeze 10L dehumidifier that I've used every autumn/winter since 2022 and it still works perfectly. They are around £150 on Amazon. If you are shopping for the cheapest price then make sure you get atleast 10L or more. The smaller ones are not sufficient for clothes drying.

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ams3000@reddit

Thanks so much. I just bought the Meaco one that had been recommended a few times and it arrives Tuesday!

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spriggan75@reddit

I’ve had a meaco DDL8 for about 5 years and it’s a game changer. Still working perfectly.

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ams3000@reddit

Off to search for that exact one. Thanks.

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akal8@reddit

Meaco Arete are good

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ams3000@reddit

Thanks!

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Affectionate-Owl9594@reddit

Meaco!

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ams3000@reddit

Thanks. This seems to be a fave brand on here.

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zq6@reddit

We bought a £99 one from B&Q; it's been fine. As with anything, you can spend loads but a £200 one is probably not twice as good.

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ams3000@reddit

Thanks.

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NuclearBumchin@reddit

I was recommended a Meaco dehumidifier by someone on Reddit and bought one. They’re really good (though not particularly cheap)

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kiradax@reddit

Just a warning though, my old flatmate bought one and it blew our fuses like once a week

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spriggan75@reddit

Yeah that’s not normal. Maybe an electrical safety check is in order?

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Embarrassed_Tank_440@reddit

This really shouldn't happen. May need to get the electrics looked at.

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Bitter_End_5643@reddit

Lakeland has the best ones with covers - not amazon

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MotherEastern3051@reddit

I've got one and ita changed my life, such a good purchase. I've got the drysoon one from lakeland and it's not the cheapest but great. Buying the cover really speeds up the drying time too.

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OminOus_PancakeS@reddit

Drysoon here too. Very pleased. But this thread is a good reminder for me to get a dehumidifier too!

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No_Grapefruit_2518@reddit

They are so good. If you are in the UK Lakeland has the best ones.

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rosemaryorchard@reddit

Those ones usually cause moisture to be released into the air faster which results in more mould issues. A dehumidifier is always a good baseline and the heated airer can be added to that.

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oldie349@reddit

How about buying her a dehumidifier if you can? They’re all some good deals around right now, and you could just say “I couldn’t resist”.

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BG3restart@reddit

I had to broach this subject with a young girl at work many years ago and it was hard, but necessary for the benefit of everyone else in the office. It turned out that she was drying a whole load of washing on a clothes rack, with items piled on top of each other. If your friend is doing this, it may be that she just needs to wash fewer things at a time, so that items aren't overlapping and air can circulate. Standing the rack near a radiator can speed up the process, or placing it in front of a sunny window. My washer has a half load button, so I use that in winter to wash small amounts I can get dry quickly on the radiators.

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Talinia@reddit

I've seen people put a clothes horse next to a radiator, then chuck a fitted sheet over both, so the hot air gets trapped around the clothes and allegedly dries them faster

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VioletsSoul@reddit

I do that. I think it does dry them faster. I also run a dehumidifier next to it

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bluetrainlinesss@reddit

How novel...I think I've done similar. Hotbox those undies.

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VioletsSoul@reddit

Dehumidifiers are fairly expensive as an up front cost, so give her solutions, not just a problem to solve because then she's going to feel embarrassed and helpless. We're coming up to black friday so there might be some good deals on dehumidifiers, or her landlord might be able to lend her one until she can save up for one if she's renting. Mine did, which was a lifesaver because I could not afford £100 on a dehumidifier at the time, and my dad managed to gift me one with the air miles he got from having to travel a lot for work. Or offer to give her a hand with taking them to the laundrette so she can use the tumble dryer there. It's a delicate and embarrassing area so do not go in with 'you are not drying them properly' because that is just going to compound the shame factor. Just be like hey there is no easy way to say this and I'm saying it out of love, but I've noticed your clothes smell kind of damp and I know how hard it is to get clothes dry in a flat, you could try asking your landlord for a dehumidifier or I can send you a link to some cheaper dehumidifiers if you want. She probably has noticed but can't do much about it and just prays nobody else will bring it up.

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MysteriousAd8014@reddit

Is it that vomit like scent

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Michaelleahcim00@reddit

It's 2025 in one of the world's richest countries - what has gone wrong when people are still living in awful living conditions ?!

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Alternative-Ad1034@reddit

Just say "oh, I don't think your clothes have dried properly", then say that it happens to you all the time too but you fins that rewashing stuff in bicarbonate of soda gets rid of the smell. It makes it sound normal and not unusual. I wouldn't be annoyed if a friend said something like that to me. I would be glad to know!

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joesus-christ@reddit

Tell her. That smell is grim and I've lived with people who had it so bad, that when I started to smell like it, I didn't even realise! Went to visit my mum and she immediately said YOU HAVE A DAMP PONG LET ME WASH ALL YOUR CLOTHES!

It wasn't JUST dampness either; it was also using too much washing powder. I didn't even know that was a thing at the time!

I'm so glad I got told; I don't wanna smell grim.

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sadoji@reddit

So this used to be me. Had no dryer and a freezing cold flat. There was literally nothing I could do about it. I had no money for a dehumidifier or a heated rack at the time.

Maybe your friend is in a similar situation? Personally if I knew someone who lived in those circumstances, I wouldn't mention it.

And she probably isn't nose blind to it. I certainly wasn't.

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lordofscorpions@reddit

As someone who's been in this situation and was spoken to at work about it

She knows, and you'll embarrass her heavily by telling her this

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seahorsebabies3@reddit

Just tell her, the washing machine might also need a clean. I did live in a one-bedroom flat with my husband, to dry things indoors I used to hang things in the bathroom and leave the window as open as possible and shut the door. It wasn’t ideal but it did work

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Ciaobellabee@reddit

Also anything that already has the musty smell needs a wash with vinegar, ideally on a hot wash to get the smell out.

My partner and I had 1 or 2 items that had got the smell after being dried inthe middle of the airer (so took a while to dry) and the smell just kept coming back until we did a vinegar wash in them

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Say-whaaaaat@reddit

Laundry sanitiser also works well for this

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spriggan75@reddit

It’s such a nightmare to get rid of it! Vinegar is definitely the best option.

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Baddog1965@reddit

Ah! Thanks for that tip

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Legitimate_Try_2722@reddit

This ⬆️. It is much more likely the odour is from their washing machine Just say you saw an advert and that you're going to buy one and you'll get one for her as they're so inexpensive. Believe me they will know it's a problem but not know the source of the smell or what to do about it.

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Katietori@reddit

There's a chance it might also be the washing machine if she's not cleaning it regularly and leaving it with the door shut between washes.

How is she drying things? Is the flat damp? Is she putting the washing machine on overnight on a cheaper tariff, and leaving the damp clothes inside it for a few hours until the morning?

Can she and her partner afford a proper dehumidifier and heated airer? Together they come to about £200.

It's a complicated one to work out the root cause of, let alone broach the conversation.

Good luck!

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Silver-Advance5276@reddit

You can get clothes practically dry by spinning a few times with clean dry towels chucked in after the wash is complete.

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Firthy2002@reddit

Sounds like nobody told them how to dry clothes if you can't line dry outside. They need to be opening a window or using a dehumidifier to get their clothes properly dry. Ours cost about £80 and was worth every penny during winter.

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scrogbertins@reddit

Do you have a tumble dryer? I'd offer to let them use mine and mention how tricky it is to get clothes fully dry this time of year without one and mention that the clothes then smell, in a broad way but not targeted. Very casual.

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Conscious-Pie-4794@reddit

Just to add, I don't think you get used to it - we had this issue one winter and I always smelt it and it was horrible so she probably already knows. Maybe just approach it as, how are you drying your clothes, because they smell like they haven't dried fast enough and maybe a dehumidifier would help or something along those lines.

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Isgortio@reddit

Sometimes I'll get a t-shirt or something that just didn't dry fully with everything else in the tumble dryer, and when I put it away it get it out of the drawer it has a horrible smell to it so I rewash it. The smell is strong! And it'll be one item, I can't imagine how annoying it is when everything smells like that.

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polka_dot_dress_@reddit

Sometimes it’s not about how long it takes to dry, and sometimes it’s because the bacteria in the clothes has built up over time. I found Napisan to be unreal at getting rid of the musty smell. Maybe you can recommend it casually like “I’ve just tried this amazing product and it’s been so useful for removing odours”

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NorthernStar2184@reddit

Suggest drying at a laundrette. There machines are much bigger and faster than domestic ones. My mum does this, she's in a 3 bed house so has the space but still finds this more convenient (she does only work part-time though).

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Noblee_x@reddit

It’s not rude just mention it

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Baddog1965@reddit

Ok, I've read a couple of comments that suggest that some people can't smell it. I don't know how, it practically paralyses my lungs if it's strong enough. I first discovered that smell at my first student digs where, to save money on the tumble dryer at the launderette, I left my damp clothes in a bin bag, taking them out to dry them on the radiator the day before I needed them. You can imagine how smelly that bag started to get. So i quickly realised the cause and it never happened again. So this makes me think she possibly can't even smell it

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everyoneis_gay@reddit

Buy her a dehumidifier and say it was going spare because a friend was accidentally sent two and you thought she would make good use of it... Sprinkle in some clearer honesty about the smell as comfortable

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Busy-Doughnut6180@reddit

I wouldn't assume she can't smell it.

If you really must say something, I would instead phrase it as if you discovered some solutions to your own damp clothes smell. Either she knows and will make a mental note of those solutions, or she doesn't but will think about her drying methods when you describe them as your own.

My rule of thumb with these things is to never point flaws out to people unless you're 100% sure they actually can immediately do something about it – and generally that they would want to do something about it. Not that someone would want to smell like mildew, but that's just my general checklist before pointing anything out (the second one would apply to say, an outfit or haircut, for example). I also think about whether it's urgent or not.

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Chuck_The_Lad@reddit

You say your clothes smell and it's probably because you're not drying them properly.

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Nat_B_@reddit

Start up a conversion about how good the Lenor Outdoorable is for preventing that damp smell (I swear by it this time of year) and see if they get the hint maybe.

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jenncatt4@reddit

I often just start telling people how I've suddenly discovered how amazing laundry disinfectant is and recommending it, and that then evolves into a conversation about all the stuff you can do to make drying clothes easier? I've done all the wrong things for drying clothes in a flat in the past, destroyed some wallpaper with mould and now I'm very much set up with my covered Lakeland heated drying rack and a decent dehumidifier and the window staying open slightly at all times, and good lord I TELL people about it 😂

People can get quite into talking about laundry and drying clothes lol, it's something most of us need to deal with - it may be that it's been bugging your friend too but they don't have the resources or info to sort it (laundry disinfectant can be a good gateway into the conversation as people haven't necessarily heard of it...!)

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Violet351@reddit

It might be because they haven’t put their heating on and the clothes are taking too long to dry. I had to put mine on for that reason. I’ve got an over radiator dryer (it just hooks over) to get them dryer quicker and I have a window open a bit to stop mould

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Talinia@reddit

Yeah, we've got a few over radiator hook things, between them and the rest of the radiators I can usually get a full wash spread across them. Then we just have it come on overnight for an hour or so. Usually mostly dry by the next day, and totally dry by the day after, and without wanting to put the heating on more, we're happy with that turnaround

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BettieShiver@reddit

Why not buy her one of those heated clothes dryers as a birtnday or Christmas present?

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Victorius_Meldrus@reddit

They need to invest in a combi washer/dryer and a dehumidifier.

The combi washer/dryer for laundry duties and the dehumidifier for pulling the moisture they've built up throughout the rest of the property (mattress, duvets, soft furnishings, soft toys, etc, which will all have absorbed moisture from air-drying, cooking and showering over the weeks/months). If it has been relatively long term, the property itself will have begun to retain excess moisture.

I'd only be using a heated clothes horse and dehumidifier combo for drying the clothes if getting a washer/dryer absolutely wasn't an option. There's no benefit to that setup besides lower intial cost. Dehumidifiers need to operate in relatively cosy ambient temperatures to be efficient and will end up costing more to run long-term than a combi washer/dryer would. Plus, there's a lot of tike and space saved by bunging all your stuff in the washer as opposed to setting up a dehumidifier, and clothes horse in an already cramped living space all day.

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Piranha_Godess@reddit

I dehumidifier that has clothes drying function is the solution - clothes on horse - dehumidifier blowing on horse - clothes dry in about 2 hrs.

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messedup73@reddit

Had a friend like this once and asked her if her flat is damp because I noticed her clothes was getting a musty smell.Framing it like this meant she could say it was hard for her to get her clothes dry so offered to help her with solutions.In the end helped her get a second hand tumble dryer which wasn't expensive and I m sure on most second hand sites you might find heated airer within budget.

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Efficient-Lab-5764@reddit

Would you recommend, by way of a story about a third party in a similar circumstance, to use a laundrette dyer - they are not expensive.

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box_frenzy@reddit

She probably knows, but as you’ve said in your OP she doesn’t have an alternative so what do you expect her to do about it?

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DonkeyWorker@reddit

Its the worst smell, the actual scientific name for it is 'swamp ass'

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Bitter_End_5643@reddit

Suggested a heated electric drying clothes horse (Lakeland have them) or running a dehumidifier next to their existing airing rack. Just tell her gently when you're alone the two of you saying your clothes smell a bit damp, I had that before I implemented these changes and now my clothes smell much better. With black Friday coming up will be able to get a decent discount to buy either item.

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DutchOfBurdock@reddit

Be blunt. I'm that friend who will tell you without an eyelid battered. I will always have something to bring to table, too. Had a colleague last year in an identical situation: lived in an HMO, no tumble and had to share a danky back room to clothes horse dry his stuff. It started getting extra fruity after a month.

"Jack, mate. If you need to use my washer dryer for your uniform and shit?"

"What you saying?"

"While you smell strawberry and banana fresh mate, your clothes have gone all Elon!"

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TippyTurtley@reddit

Start a whole conversation about how you have recently bought a dehumidifier and that it's amazing and your clothes dry really quick and don't get that damp smell

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NeckBeard137@reddit

Heated clothes rack

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Environmental_Law468@reddit

If it was my friend I would just tell her straight and make a few helpful suggestions, as others have mentioned below, It could the washing machine that needs a good clean, the area of the room that she drys them in. She could get a cloths made and put in the centre of the room, make sure the clothes are adequately spaced apart with the heating on. Perhaps visit a laundrette I don’t think that holding back and not telling her is really being a good friend, if you can’t tell her about it who can.

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Wild_Wolverine9526@reddit

Buy her a heated airer if you can afford it. They make a hell of a difference.

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Last-Deal-4251@reddit

If she can’t afford a dehumidifier or a tumble dryer, surely she can open the windows? That plus washing with some vinegar might help stop the smell.

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Real_Run_4758@reddit

it’s funny how, as smoking indoors at home has declined, I don’t really know anyone who constantly smells of smoke anymore, but the musty smell has increased. I wonder if there was some Venn diagram crossover and without the fagend smell the must is more noticeable

like how in August/september 2007 all the clubs suddenly stank of piss and sweat, which previously had been covered by people smoking on the dancefloor

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Islingtonian@reddit

Heated clothes horse for Christmas? Tesco have some on a clubcard deal at the moment. Thank you for caring about your friend's feelings.

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Islingtonian@reddit

https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/325226852?seller=trn:tesco:seller:uuid:2d6353ad-0a09-483c-b8e9-1c0bf60a3574&_gl=11uy7vic_upMQ.._gaMTk0MDQ2NTkzNy4xNzYyNjc5ODU3_ga_33B19D36CY*czE3NjI2Nzk4NTYkbzEkZzEkdDE3NjI2Nzk5MTYkajYwJGwwJGg4NTAwMzcyNjU.

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lokiinspace@reddit

Bring it up gently I think and try to relate to her problems, you're already there :D

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rebywills@reddit

Suggest a dehumidifier tell her it stops your clothes from getting damp over the winter especially since she is in a small flat it would be more beneficial. Not outwardly saying it but still making a useful suggestion might get her thinking about how her clothes are drying. She’s also not alone I’ve resorted to washing my clothes but taking them to a friend or relative who has a tumble drying over the next couple months cause it’s just impossible to catch up

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_Starpower@reddit

Putting white vinegar in the wash kills that specific fungus, it actually originates in the washing machine if it’s that specific smell you are referring to, also some people cannot smell it at all apparently. I have a washing machine that can be problematic, I put white vinegar in the tray and squirt some in the washing area too every few washes. It’s depressing having to rewash because of it.

As for the friend, you should tell her imo, she likely can’t smell it herself.

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taulish_paul@reddit

Also consider if it's the washing machine or how it is used, the clothes might not be being washed right (build up of grease from low detergent, non-bio; limescale; not rinsing right; always very low temp, etc).

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Foundation_Wrong@reddit

Hey friend can you smell that damp mouldy smell?

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Baddog1965@reddit

I think you need to tackle this on the nose. I would say, "You're taking too long to dry your clothes, it's making them smell musty sometimes".

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h_4vok@reddit

Besides telling her, in private, also recommend an electric drying tower that collapses. That might be a good solution here

Also, clothes conditioner and also the fragance boosters.

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semorebunz@reddit

talk it up as its you thinking about getting a dehumidifier as you noticed clothes are smelling musty and everyone raves about how good they are , has she ever thought about it too? must be hard keeping things fresh in that flat , if that doesnt get her thinking then what can you do

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BigBastardChap@reddit

Exact same thing happened with me. My very best mate and his wife's clothes were honking of damp. I just told him outright, and then they changed their clothes drying habits. The alternative is everyone else talks about it behind their backs, and they go around stinking the place out whilst totally oblivious to it.

It's not really that delicate a conversation even, not like someone always smelling of BO.

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Illustrious-Log-3142@reddit

You could bring it up in a subtle way and say you've had an issue with it personally and recommend what's worked for you? If they're self aware they should take the hint. If they don't I would just politely ask them if they have everything they need for the winter and frame it as an offer to help rather than criticism :)

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Sivear@reddit

What I’d do is the ‘urgh, I didn’t dry my clothes properly and I can smell the damp on this top’.

I’d hope the reply would be ‘what do you mean?’ leading to ‘you need a dehumidifier to stop the smell etc etc’ or a ‘oh I hate that!’ and then ask how they stop it happening.

Depending on relationship offer a sniff of their clothes to see. I’m a shit house so wouldn’t have the balls to outwardly say it, I don’t want to be rejected 😄

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carlbernsen@reddit

Sniff her clothes and say “Oh you need to dry your clothes faster, they start to get this musty mouldy mildewy smell otherwise. I’ve had that before and it’s not good for your clothes. You have to dry them in a closed room with open windows and a breeze blowing through or a fan running. Or in a closed room with a good dehumidifier and a fan to move the air.”

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Nice_Back_9977@reddit

She lives in a one bedroom flat

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fluentindothraki@reddit

Tell her that heated airers are. We got one from John Lewis 9 years ago that's on nonstop throughout autumn and winter and spring. That one still costs about £100 but it's got shoe dryers which is good for us (we have a big dog and do a lot of walking).

There are cheaper ones.

The other thing that can make a difference is to have candles burning (if they are worried about the fire hazard, use the old 'upside down unglazed flower pot over a short candle" trick

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No_Grapefruit_2518@reddit

I have a dehumidifier and a heated airer and it has made so much difference drying the the winter. A worthy investment but they are about £70-100

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Unlikely-Anything503@reddit

She can take her clothes to dry at the laundrettes its a bit long but better than smelling or purchasing a good dehumidifier would help but its not certain. The smell can really get into the clothes and spread to touching clothes as well so laundrettes might be better as really they will likely need to freshen up their whole wardrobe.

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Sufficient_Mouse_583@reddit

It's probably cheaper in the long run to just buy a dehumidifier, I have two, you can get one on George for like £100 and they're brilliant! My dehumidifier dries my clothes in a day and warms up my living room at the same time so I don't have the heating on, win win

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Kathwino@reddit

I have the 12L Daewoo Dehumidifier from George and it dries my clothes overnight, as long as its in a small room with the door shut.

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Tallicababe123@reddit

Well there are a few gentle ways you could drop hints. You could be like "I hate winter it takes so much longer to dry my washing so I bought a heated clothes airer last week it has helped allot". Or "I couldn't live without my washer dryer combi in winter." She could also just be washing wrong. I do an extra spin and put my clothes on the radiator as soon as its done. If they are left in the washing machine and not spun an extra time they will stink. You could just ask in a general conversation what does she do in winter and then say what you do but its actually just tips that can help them. You could also buy them a compact heated clothes airer for Christmas if no improvement as they are around £40 on amazon maybe less on black Friday.

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bishibashi@reddit

I used to work with a Swedish guy who would say “OH YOU SMELL LIKE THE WET DOG” when he detected that smell on anyone. Traumatising but seemed effective.

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tiptreetimes@reddit

If I was the friend, I would want to know. It would be an embarrassing conversation all round, sure, but I think most people would rather be told. She might simply need to space her clothes out more on the airer. There's also the chance that she DOES know, but has to wear those clothes because, we'll, they are the clean ones. Not everyone has a huge amount of clothing. I've been in these same circumstances.

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smedsterwho@reddit

Oh I've been through this recently - moved place and no tumble dryer.

A friend mentioned it last month, and although I'd spotted it on that wash, I'm still glad they did. Even a radiator dry is better than nothing.

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Low_Flatworm3199@reddit

Be honest and direct, that's the only way they could decide to make the change and fix things.

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lalajia@reddit

Tell her about using a dehumidifier over winter, to help the house stay warm and dry, and oh it also speeds up the drying of clothes! I think you can get ones pretty cheap online.

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Snorlady10@reddit

How helpful do you want to be and how good a friend is it? If you’re genuinely concerned get her a cheap dehumidifier and explain. If you’re not arsed then just tell her.

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offwiththeirheadss@reddit

You could treat her to an electric airer? Say you saw it and thought it’d be really useful for her and her partner as you saw a YouTube video/tiktok/article/social media post recently about an epidemic of smelly people as a result of people in the same situation as her as a result of washing not drying properly. I read somewhere some are as little as 18p p/h to run and if you get one with a cover it significantly shortens the drying time.

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GuybrushFunkwood@reddit

Nickname her ‘Wetdog’ and see if she picks up the hint

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Shriven@reddit

What's up wetdog?

What's no you're supposed to say updog and I say what's updog and...

You fucking stink Elizabeth

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GodOfEnnui@reddit

Option 1 - Suck it up and tell her honestly. If she's your friend she'll value you being honest.

Option 2 - Say nothing and let her continue smelling like a wetdog.

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