Laundry bags are a great tool for keeping delicate clothing and intimate items safe in the wash while still getting a thorough clean. However, if you don’t care for the bags properly, they can start to smell and stink up your clothing, which is the opposite of what you’re hoping for after completing a load of laundry.
Continue reading below for some expert tips on keeping your laundry bags clean and well-maintained, which will help to extend their lifespan and keep them functioning as intended.
Store Only When Dry
Avoid the buildup of unpleasant odors, mold, mildew, and bacteria by only storing away your mesh laundry bag when it’s completely dry.
If you wash and dry a load of laundry with items in the bag, this should be no issue. But, if you wash delicate items that are hang-dry only and you don’t use the dryer, the bag should be hung alongside the clothing to let it dry out.
Don’t let the laundry bag pile up on the floor when wet, and try to avoid storing it in a warm, dark environment until fully dry.
Scrub to Remove Build-up
With regular use of the laundry bag, you may start to notice buildup on the inner and outer parts of the bag. This is normal and to be expected, as the oils, dirt, cosmetics, and other stains that are removed from the clothing items during the wash might get transferred and trapped on the bag over time.
If you notice this issue, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the bag’s surface and remove any debris or grimy buildup before giving it a wash. Avoid using brushes that are too tough or abrasive, as it could permanently damage the mesh bag.
Soak and Hand Wash
You should give your mesh laundry bag a solo deep clean every now and then, like once a month. You can throw it in the wash on the gentle cycle on its own. Or, you can do a hand wash if it needs a bit more scrubbing, which also allows you to soak the bag in warm, soapy water to better penetrate the dirt and grime on the bag’s fabric.
Start by filling up a deep sink or wash basin with warm water and mild detergent. Place the bag in the water and make sure that it’s completely submerged before letting it sit to soak for 30 minutes to an hour. After this time has passed, agitate the bag to help remove any of the buildup that has loosened while soaking, and rinse it with fresh, clean water to prevent the buildup of soap scum. Of course, you’ll need to let it hang dry before storing it.
Don’t Overfill the Bag
Bad odors and mildew aren’t the only hazards to your mesh laundry bag. To keep it well-functioning and in good condition, you must also use it as intended.
This means you should avoid stuffing or overloading the bag with clothing. Not only will this prevent your clothes from being cleaned properly, but it can also put unnecessary stress on the fabric, causing it to rip or tear at the seams.