If you like, you can use half the detergent you normally use in combination with the vinegar, as long as the detergent is not made from a natural soap. [2] X Research source Vinegar breaks down the fats in natural soaps, such as castile soap, rendering both ineffective if the two are combined. [3] X Research source

It may help to add a little vinegar into the rinse cycle after washing with baking soda.

You can use oxygen bleach in place of your regular detergent, but borax is usually used in addition to detergent.

Some commercial laundry detergents contain odor-fighting enzymes, or you can purchase a bottle of laundry booster that you use in addition to your regular detergent.

This method works better on natural fibers like cotton and wool than it does for synthetic fabrics like spandex or nylon. Over time, exposing your fabrics to sunlight will bleach their color.

It might seem unusual, but freezing their clothes is a long-time secret weapon of denim lovers who want to extend the life of their jeans.

If you’re in a hurry, place the item in the dryer instead of air drying.

You can buy activated charcoal at pet supply stores, vitamin and nutrition shops, and some big-box retail centers.

Balling up wet clothes will cause them to stay wet longer, giving mildew a better chance to grow.

Follow the guidelines on your detergent packaging to know how much to add. When in doubt, add a little less detergent than you think you need.

Fabric softener residue will also promote the growth of bacteria in much the same way as using too much detergent.

If you do accidentally leave your laundry in the washing machine for too long, run them through another cycle with some vinegar to help get rid of the smell before you dry them.

Plastic dry-cleaner bags can also trap moisture and lead to mildew on your clothing. If the air in your room is extremely humid, place a desiccant like silica gel packets into your dresser drawers or the bottom of your closet. You can purchase these from craft or home improvement stores.

If you like, you can add 1⁄2 cup (120 mL) of an enzymatic detergent for extra odor-killing power. To prevent mildew from forming in your washing machine, leave the door cracked after each cycle so the machine will dry out, and always remove wet clothes right away.