Best Laundry Detergent For Stinky Towels (2024 Update)
If you're looking for the best laundry detergent for stinky towels, you're not alone. There are a variety of reasons why towels can start to smell, from dampness to residual bacteria. Fortunately, there are a few factors that you can consider before purchasing a laundry detergent that is best suited for tackling this issue.
First, consider the ingredients of the laundry detergent. Look for products that contain oxygen bleach or enzymes, as these ingredients can help to break down odor-causing bacteria. Additionally, consider whether the laundry detergent is specifically designed for high-efficiency machines, as some traditional detergents may not work as well in these machines.
Next, consider the fragrance of the laundry detergent. While a fresh scent can be appealing, it's important to remember that fragrance can sometimes be a cover-up for an underlying odor issue. Look for a laundry detergent that is labeled as "odor-eliminating" or "anti-bacterial" for the best results.
Are you tired of having to constantly rewash your towels due to lingering odors? Have you tried multiple laundry detergents with little to no success? Keep reading to discover our top picks for the best laundry detergent for stinky towels and say goodbye to unpleasant aromas for good.
10 Best Laundry Detergent For Stinky Towels
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The product is ideal for washing towels.
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This product is ideal for removing odors from laundry and has EPA Safer Choice certification.
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Ideal for those looking for eco-friendly, scent-free laundry detergent sheets that are hypoallergenic and perfect for travel.
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4
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OxiClean laundry and home sanitizer is ideal for cleaning and sanitizing various surfaces such as laundry, kitchen, bath, carpet, and upholstery.
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5
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The product is an ideal detergent for deep cleaning, restoring and maintaining the life of microfiber towels used in car washes.
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6
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This product is ideal for removing stains and odors from laundry using both high efficiency and standard washing machines.
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7
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It is ideal for whitening and brightening white laundry, including baseball pants, sheets, and towels, and removing red clay stains.
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The product is ideal for removing tough odors from laundry with the added cleaning power of OxiClean.
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9
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This product is ideal for washing towels during the summer season.
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10
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This product is ideal for whitening, brightening, and refreshing baby cloth diapers, musty towels, and workout clothes. It's also non-toxic and fragrance-free for sensitive skin.
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1. Le Blanc® Lavender Towel Wash® – 64 Fl. Oz, One Pack
Le Blanc's Original TowelWash product is a must-have for anyone who is serious about the care of their luxury bath linens. This product is designed to work effectively on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, silk, bamboo, modal, and more.
One of the key features of this product is that it contains no optical brighteners. This means that it won't cause your linens to fade, dry out, or discolor over time. Instead, it works to protect the fibers, ensuring that they stay in top condition for as long as possible.
Another important thing to note about this product is that it contains no bleach, caustics, phosphates, sulfates, or enzymes. This makes it a safe and gentle option for those who are concerned about the impact of their cleaning products on the environment.
Le Blanc's Original TowelWash is also pH neutral and 100% biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly choice. Despite its gentle formulation, this product is highly effective at removing stains and keeping your linens looking and feeling their best.
Finally, it's worth mentioning that this product features a delightful lavender fragrance. This scent is created using wild lavender flowers, which are expertly blended with bergamot, rosemary, and eucalyptus to create a truly luxurious experience.
2. Defunkify's Saferchoice Odor Crushing Laundry Detergent
This laundry detergent boasts of its unique odor-crushing power that can effectively remove all the stink and stains from your clothes. Its formula penetrates deep between the fibers to get rid of even the toughest odor-causing bacteria.
Unlike other detergents that use fake fragrances, this detergent uses pure essential oils to provide a natural and refreshing scent. Its Lavender, Lemongrass, and Fresh Air scents are all derived from natural sources. And for those who prefer unscented detergent, their Free & Clear variant has a subtle and natural fragrance that smells like invisible roses.
This detergent is suitable for all types of washing machines, including HE machines. Its low-sudsing formula ensures that your machine will not be overloaded with bubbles, and it is also formulated for cold water performance. You can confidently spill that gravy on your clothes, knowing that this detergent will effectively wash the funk out.
This laundry detergent is environmentally friendly and has a big green impact. It is 87% bio-based and removes more odor than other leading brands. The company harnesses the power of nature to create a product that is strong like an evergreen.
Safety is a top priority for this detergent. Its ingredients are approved by the EPA Safer Choice Program, and it undergoes rigorous testing to ensure industry-leading safety. The company's ProvenSafe process guarantees that their detergent is always safe for you and your family.
3. Eco-Friendly Laundry Strips: Sensitive And Portable.
RUSTIC PLANET offers an innovative solution for laundry with their Natural Laundry Detergent sheets. These sheets are unscented and hypoallergenic, making them safe for sensitive skin. The detergent is also phosphorus and fluoresce-free, ensuring that it is environmentally friendly. The sheets dissolve easily in both hot and cold water and are compatible with all washing machines, including high-efficiency ones.
Rustic Planet is committed to being a green-friendly company and has made significant strides in reducing their carbon footprint. Their packaging is plastic-free, completely zero waste, and compostable. By using their product, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.
One of the most significant advantages of using Rustic Planet's Efficient Laundry Detergent Sheets is the convenience they offer. No more mess and spillage from measuring out traditional liquid or powder detergents. Each sheet is equivalent to one load, and there is no need for measuring, making it fuss-free.
The compact design of Rustic Planet's Green-strips (9x11cm) is an added benefit for those with limited storage space. The efficient packaging is small enough to fit in an envelope, making it perfect for travel. These detergent sheets are the perfect on-the-go gadget for your next trip, ensuring your clothes stay clean and fresh.
Rustic Planet is a company that cares about making a difference. For every purchase made, they donate 10% to the Global Share Foundation. This donation helps provide long-term support to rural communities in Ghana, Africa. By using Rustic Planet's Natural Laundry Detergent sheets, you can make a difference in the world while also keeping your clothes clean and fresh.
4. Oxiclean Laundry & Home Sanitizer For Laundry, Kitchen, Bath, Carpet & Upholstery, 2.5 Lbs
Introducing the OxiClean Laundry & Home Sanitizer, the ultimate solution for keeping your home and laundry fresh and clean. This product comes in a 2.5 lb container, which is perfect for multiple uses.
The OxiClean Laundry & Home Sanitizer is a versatile product that can be used on various surfaces such as kitchen, bath, carpet, and upholstery. It features a 3 in 1 power that removes germs, odors, and stains, making it a perfect choice for busy households.
Using this product is easy; simply follow the directions on the label to kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses. The OxiClean Laundry & Home Sanitizer is safe to use on colored clothes and fabrics, making it a reliable choice for all your laundry needs.
The packaging of this product is child-resistant, ensuring that it is safe to store in your home. To open the fabric sanitizer, squeeze the tabs on the lid and turn it. When you're done, close the container tightly and store it securely out of reach of children.
5. Concentrated Microfiber Detergent – 1 Gallon
Introducing 3D Towel Kleen, the premium low foam microfiber towel launder detergent soap that effectively removes stains and maintains towel absorbency for longer lasting use. Made with a no residue formula, this detergent works to sustain microfiber towel cleaning properties so you can confidently re-use your towels over and over again with the same high-quality clean.
Say goodbye to those stubborn microfiber towel stains with 3D Towel Kleen. This detergent works to restore your towels to their original state, providing peace of mind that they are clean and ready for use. Unlike regular laundry detergents, our premium microfiber towel laundry detergent soap formula protects your towels for an extended period.
3D Towel Kleen is proudly made in the USA, backed by over 25 years of research and development in exterior and interior car care products. Our commitment to uncompromising quality ensures that our customers receive only the best microfiber laundry detergent soap that's tried and trusted.
Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply looking for a reliable detergent for your microfiber towels, 3D Towel Kleen is the perfect solution. Don't settle for regular laundry detergents that can compromise the integrity of your towels. Experience the difference with 3D Towel Kleen and enjoy the benefits of longer lasting, clean and absorbent microfiber towels.
6. Murasaki Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent: High Performance Clean
Dirty Labs is a revolutionary brand that offers a unique and more sustainable approach to cleaning. Unlike other typical cleaners that still rely on harmful, petroleum-based chemicals, Dirty Labs is formulated with non-toxic, biobased ingredients that are safe for all clothing types and sensitive skin. It is also cruelty-free, vegan, hypoallergenic, and safe for babies and pets.
What sets Dirty Labs apart is its advanced enzyme cleaning technology called Phytolase, which targets stains and odors at their source while being extra gentle for you, your clothes, and the planet. This technology is rigorously tested to ensure that it's strong enough for those who like to get really dirty, and it has received positive feedback from satisfied customers.
Dirty Labs is also environmentally friendly. By creating hyper-concentrated formulas, the brand reduces its package sizes and carbon footprint. The bottles are made of aluminum and can be infinitely recycled. The ingredients are responsibly sourced and created through biorenewable manufacturing processes. The brand takes a comprehensive approach to its product life cycles to achieve the safest, most sustainable solutions.
To use Dirty Labs, customers should follow their garment care label and washing machine instructions. It comes with a washable and reusable silicone beaker to measure the load size. For tough stains, customers can pretreat directly to the soil area and allow it to sit for five minutes before washing. The detergent is hyper-concentrated, so customers only need to use 8ml for medium loads, 12ml for large loads, and 16ml for extra-large loads.
Each 8.6 fl oz bottle of Dirty Labs detergent can clean up to 32 loads of laundry. It comes in a unique Murasaki Scent that features the delightful blend of Jasmine, Matcha, and Vetiver. The detergent is compatible with traditional and HE washers and optimized for cold water. It is certified EPA Safer Choice and does not contain sulfates, dyes, parabens, preservatives, chlorine bleach, or CA Prop.65 Chemicals.
7. Whiteout Laundry Whitener: Red Clay Fighter
Introducing a laundry whitener that is designed to brighten and freshen up your clothes like no other product in the market. This powerful laundry solution is capable of removing even the most stubborn stains and dingies that bleach and oxi's simply can't.
It is specially formulated to tackle yellowing and rust stains caused by iron and other impurities present in water. Additionally, it is highly effective in eliminating red clay or red dirt stains, making it an ideal choice for white baseball pants and other white sports uniforms.
This laundry whitener is also known for its ability to reverse unfortunate color bleeds, making it a must-have for any laundry routine. The best part is that it is safer on both white and colorfast fabrics than bleach, ensuring that your clothes remain in top condition for longer.
This laundry whitener is perfect for use in regions with high levels of iron and red clay. It is also safe for use in all washing machines, including hE machines, and is compatible with septic systems.
Made in the USA, this laundry whitener is the go-to solution for cleaner, brighter, and fresher laundry. Its powerful formula is designed to provide superior results, leaving your clothes looking and feeling like new every time. Try it out today and see the difference for yourself!
8. Arm & Hammer Liquid Laundry 166.5oz Odor Blasters Plus Oxiclean
The ARM & HAMMER Plus OxiClean with Odor Blasters Laundry Detergent is a must-have for anyone looking to keep their clothes clean and smelling fresh. The 166.5 fl oz bottle contains enough liquid laundry detergent to clean 128 medium loads, making it a great value for families and individuals alike.
This triple-power HE laundry detergent is designed to fight tough odors, blast away stains, and boost freshness, leaving your clothes looking and smelling their best. With trusted ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda and an odor fighter, this HE laundry detergent is formulated to deeply clean clothes and deliver lasting freshness.
Not only does this laundry detergent provide a deep clean, but it also acts as a laundry stain remover that forces out stubborn stains and nasty odors. The OxiClean Stain Fighters in the formula work to remove stains like food, grass, grease, and more, leaving your clothes looking as good as new.
The Odor Blasters in this laundry detergent fight tough smells like body odor, sweat, and musty towels, leaving your clothes with a lasting Fresh Burst scent. This scent is not overwhelming but rather a pleasant and refreshing addition to your laundry routine.
9. Le Blanc® Summer Verbena Towelwash® – 64 Fl. Oz, One Pack
Le Blanc has created an exceptional laundry product that is specially designed to clean and protect bath linens made of cotton, silk, bamboo, modal, and other delicate materials. This high-quality formula does not contain any optical brighteners, ensuring that fibers remain protected from fading or discoloration while also preventing them from drying out.
This product is an effective stain remover for both white and colored fabrics, and is triple-concentrated, making it a highly economical option for laundry care. It has a neutral pH level and does not contain bleach, phosphates, or sulfates, making it safe for use in HE washing machines. Additionally, this product is proudly made in the USA, ensuring that it is of the highest quality.
The scent of this product is a unique combination of fresh florals, sun-lit herbs, and precious woods, offering a refreshing and invigorating fragrance that will leave your linens smelling clean and fresh. Experience the benefits of this incredible laundry detergent, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your delicate fabrics are being cared for in the best possible way.
10. Revitalize Laundry: Rlr Natural Powder Detergent
Introducing RLR baby laundry detergent, a powerful stain and odor remover that will leave your clothes looking and smelling fresh and new. Whether you're dealing with tough stains like grease, blood, tea, coffee, pee, or poop, RLR works like magic to make them disappear. You can use it as a presoak, prewash, or in your regular wash cycle to get the best results.
RLR is not just for whites – it works equally well on colored clothes, restoring their brightness and removing dinginess. It's perfect for old, musty, or worn clothes that need a little extra TLC. It even removes the lingering smells of old perfumes, Downy scents, and more.
This concentrated formula is easy to use – just one packet is all you need to soften hard water and remove stains, dinginess, and funk from both regular and delicate fabrics. RLR is compatible with HE machines, septic-safe, and won't clog pipes or leave crud on your machine.
RLR is 100% safe for sensitive skin, making it perfect for baby clothes and anyone with allergies or sensitivities. It's hypoallergenic, non-toxic, vegan, and biodegradable, with no phosphates, parabens, optical brighteners, SLS/SLES, or artificial fragrances.
RLR is part of Cadie's laundry treatment line, which includes other eco-friendly products that are proudly made in the USA. Shop other Cadie household products favored by housewives around the world, and discover how easy and simple everyday tasks can be with Cadie.
Best Laundry Detergent For Stinky Towels FAQs
Are natural or eco-friendly laundry detergents effective at removing odors from towels?
Yes, natural or eco-friendly laundry detergents can be effective at removing odors from towels. Many traditional laundry detergents contain harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances that can leave behind a strong chemical smell on your towels, which can be irritating and unpleasant. On the other hand, eco-friendly and natural laundry detergents are made from plant-based ingredients that are gentle on fabrics and work to break down and remove odors without leaving behind any harmful chemicals or synthetic fragrances.
One of the most effective natural ingredients for removing odors from towels is vinegar. Adding a cup of white vinegar to your rinse cycle can help to break down any residual detergent or fabric softener and neutralize any lingering odors. Another effective natural ingredient is baking soda, which can be added to your wash cycle to help remove stubborn odors and stains.
Overall, natural and eco-friendly laundry detergents can be just as effective at removing odors from towels as traditional detergents, and they offer the added advantage of being gentler on the environment and on your skin.
Are there any other tips or tricks for keeping towels fresh and odor-free during and after washing?
Yes, there are a few other tips and tricks for keeping towels fresh and odor-free during and after washing. Here are some suggestions:
1. Use the right amount of detergent: Using too much detergent can leave behind residue that can lead to musty smells. Make sure to use the recommended amount of detergent for your load size.
2. Add vinegar or baking soda: Adding a cup of white vinegar or half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle can help neutralize odors and remove buildup.
3. Avoid fabric softener: Fabric softener can leave a coating on towels that can trap odors and reduce absorbency. Instead, use dryer balls or wool dryer balls to help fluff towels and reduce static.
4. Hang towels to dry: Hanging towels to dry between uses can help prevent mildew growth. If you must use a dryer, avoid over-drying as it can damage the fibers and reduce absorbency.
5. Wash towels separately: Towels should be washed separately from other clothing items as they can produce a lot of lint that can stick to other fabrics and reduce their effectiveness.
By following these tips, you can keep your towels fresh and odor-free for longer periods, ensuring that you always have soft, fluffy and absorbent towels to use.
Are there any specialty laundry detergents or additives that can help with particularly stubborn towel odors?
Yes, there are specialty laundry detergents and additives that can help with stubborn towel odors. One option is to use a detergent specifically designed for sports gear or workout clothes, as these often have extra odor-fighting power. Another option is to use an enzymatic cleaner, which can break down and remove the bacteria that cause odors. Additionally, adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle can help remove odors and soften towels. For especially stubborn odors, soaking the towels in a mixture of hot water and baking soda before washing can be effective. It's also important to make sure that towels are being washed frequently enough, as leaving them damp for too long can contribute to odor buildup. By using the right detergents and additives and following proper laundry practices, stubborn towel odors can be eliminated.
Can fabric softeners or dryer sheets help with stinky towels, or should I rely solely on detergent?
Fabric softeners and dryer sheets can help with stinky towels to a certain extent, but they should not be relied upon solely to address the issue. The primary cause of stinky towels is the buildup of bacteria in the fibers, which can be caused by factors such as using too little detergent, washing in cold water, or leaving damp towels sitting in a pile. While fabric softeners and dryer sheets can help to mask the odor temporarily, they do not address the root cause of the problem.
To effectively combat stinky towels, it is important to take a multifaceted approach. This includes using an appropriate amount of detergent, washing in hot water, avoiding overloading the washing machine, and using a vinegar or baking soda rinse to kill bacteria. Additionally, towels should be hung up to dry immediately after use and washed frequently, ideally after every use.
In summary, while fabric softeners and dryer sheets can provide some help with stinky towels, they should not be relied upon as the sole solution. A comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes of bacteria buildup is necessary for effective odor control.
How do different laundry detergents compare in terms of removing odors from towels?
Different laundry detergents have varying degrees of effectiveness in removing odors from towels. Some detergents are specifically designed to target and eliminate odors, while others may not have the same level of odor-fighting power.
When comparing laundry detergents, it’s important to look for ones that contain enzymes or other odor-neutralizing ingredients. These can help break down and eliminate the bacteria that cause odors in towels.
Additionally, using a detergent that is specifically designed for high-efficiency (HE) washers can also help remove odors from towels. HE detergents are formulated to work with the lower water levels in these machines, which can lead to more effective cleaning and odor removal.
It’s also worth noting that the type of fabric softener or dryer sheets used can also impact the odor-fighting power of laundry detergents. Some fabric softeners and dryer sheets contain fragrances that can mask odors, but may not actually eliminate them.
Overall, it’s best to choose a laundry detergent that is specifically formulated for odor removal and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal results. Additionally, using proper washing and drying techniques, such as avoiding overloading the washer and ensuring towels are fully dry before storing them, can also help prevent odors from developing in the first place.
How often should I wash my towels with a laundry detergent designed for odors?
The frequency of washing your towels with a laundry detergent designed for odors depends on how often you use them and the conditions under which they are used. Generally, it is recommended to wash your towels every three to four uses to prevent the buildup of bacteria, sweat, and other residues that can cause unpleasant odors.
However, if you use your towels frequently or in humid conditions, you may need to wash them more often. In such cases, using a laundry detergent designed for odors can be helpful in eliminating any lingering smells and keeping your towels fresh.
It is also important to follow the instructions on the detergent label, as some products may require a specific amount of detergent and water temperature to work effectively. Additionally, avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets with your towels, as they can leave behind a residue that can attract bacteria and cause odors.
Is there a laundry detergent specifically designed for stinky towels?
Yes, there are laundry detergents specifically designed to tackle the issue of stinky towels. These detergents often contain enzymes that break down the bacteria causing the odor, as well as deodorizers to leave towels smelling fresh. Look for detergents labeled as "sports" or "odor-eliminating" to target this issue. Additionally, using a fabric softener or dryer sheets can help to mask the smell, but it is important to note that these products do not actually remove the odor-causing bacteria. To prevent stinky towels in the first place, make sure to hang them up to dry thoroughly after each use and wash them frequently. Avoid leaving damp towels in a pile, as this can create the perfect environment for bacteria growth and odor.
Should I use a different laundry detergent for my towels than for my other laundry?
Yes, it's recommended to use a different laundry detergent for towels than for other laundry. Towels are made of thicker and more absorbent material which means they can trap in more dirt, grime, and detergent residue than other clothing items. This can cause your towels to become stiff, scratchy, and less absorbent over time.
Using a detergent specifically formulated for towels can help prevent this problem. Look for detergents that are labeled as being suitable for towels or that claim to remove build-up from fabric. These detergents are typically free from fabric softeners and excess perfumes, which can leave a residue on towels and affect their absorbency.
It's also important to avoid using too much detergent when washing towels, as this can lead to build-up and reduce their effectiveness. Using too much fabric softener can also have a similar effect. By using a suitable detergent and avoiding excess product, you can keep your towels soft, fluffy, and absorbent for longer.
What ingredients should I look for in a laundry detergent for stinky towels?
If you're struggling with stinky towels, there are a few key ingredients you should look for in a laundry detergent. Firstly, enzymes are a must-have ingredient, as they break down the bacteria and organic matter that cause odors. Look for detergents that contain protease, amylase, and lipase enzymes, as these are particularly effective at breaking down protein, starch, and fat-based stains.
Another important ingredient to consider is oxygen bleach, which is gentler than chlorine bleach but still effective at fighting stains and odors. Oxygen bleach can help to brighten and refresh towels, leaving them smelling clean and fresh.
Finally, consider using a detergent that contains baking soda or washing soda, as these alkaline substances can help to neutralize odors. Additionally, they can help to soften hard water, which can contribute to towel odors.
Overall, look for laundry detergents that are specifically formulated for tough stains and odors, and don't be afraid to use a little extra detergent if necessary. With the right ingredients and a little extra care, you can banish stinky towel odors for good.
What laundry detergent is most effective for removing odors from towels?
If you're struggling with musty or mildew odors in your towels, choosing the right laundry detergent can make a big difference. When looking for a detergent that can effectively remove these odors, you'll want to consider a few key factors.
First, look for a detergent that contains enzymes. Enzymes are highly effective at breaking down organic matter, including the bacteria and fungi that can cause odors in towels. You'll also want to choose a detergent that is specifically designed for use on towels, as these products are formulated to help restore the absorbency and softness of your towels while eliminating odors.
Some popular options for odor-eliminating laundry detergents include Tide Odor Rescue, Persil ProClean Odor Fighter, and Arm & Hammer Plus OxiClean Odor Blasters. These detergents contain powerful enzymes and other ingredients that can help to break down and remove odors from your towels.
Ultimately, the most effective laundry detergent for removing odors from towels will depend on the severity of the odors and your personal preferences. Try experimenting with a few different options to find the one that works best for you.
