How to Get the Smell Out of Dishcloths? (4 Simple Steps)

Dishcloths can often smell bad after a few uses. It happens when they stay damp for a longer time. Damp cloths hold into food and germs, and these germs can grow and make the cloth smell unpleasant. A smelly dishcloth can spread bad odors and even germs in your kitchen.

You can get rid of the smell of dishcloths by washing dishcloths in hot water with vinegar (adds freshness), boiling them in water and detergent, or soak in a baking soda solution. Then, air-dry and rotate dishcloths regularly.

Today, we’ll show you how to get the smell out of dishcloths. You’ll learn simple steps like washing them with hot water, using baking soda, or microwaving them. These tips will make your dishcloth smell fresh in no time. 

Why Do Dishcloths Smell?

Dishcloths smell because they create a perfect home for germs and odors. Here’s why:

One big reason is to keep the dishcloth damp after cleaning. It creates moisture in the dishcloth, which is like an all you can eat buffet for the bacteria.

These tiny germs multiply quickly in wet environments and break down food bits that release smell chemically. The more longer the cloth stays wet, the worse the odor grows.

Another reason for bad smelling dishcloths is when food and oil get trapped in the dishcloth. Every time you wipe a plate or counter, tiny bits of food and grease stick to the cloth’s fibers.

Over time, these particles rot or mix with oils, which create a sticky , stinky mess. The fabric traps the smells, so they can’t just wash away with a quick rinse.

Not cleaning or drying the dishcloth properly can also cause germ and smell buildup. If you don't wash the dishcloths often or dry them completely, germs and smells can take over.

Piling a used cloth in a sink or drawer traps moisture and makes it hard for it to air out. Skipping regular washing lets old food and bacteria pile up and it will turn your cloth into a germ breeding ground.

In short, dampness + trapped food + lazy cleaning = a stinky dishcloth. 

Signs Your Dishcloth Needs a Wash

One of the easiest ways to tell if your dishcloth needs cleaning is by its smell. If it gives off an unpleasant, sour, or musty odor, that’s a clear sign it’s time to act.

These smells happen because bacteria and mold are growing in the damp fabric. Sour smells usually come from rotting food particles, while musty odors point to mold or mildew. These smells can spread germs to your dishes, countertops, or hands.

Another clear sign is visible stains or residue . Over time, food scraps, oils, and soap buildup stick to the cloth’s fibers which leaves a dark spot or a firm layer. These stains are a sign that bacteria have a steady food source. More strain buildup can make it harder to remove smells later.

Dampness or lack of dryness is the most obvious warning that your dishcloths need cleaning. If your dishcloth stays squishy or wet for hours after use, it’s not drying properly.

Moisture traps bacteria and mold in the fabric which creates a breeding ground for odors. A dishcloth that feels damp days after its last use is a hazard to hygiene.

If you see these signs of smell in your dishcloths, the germs are actively working for more odors. Act fast to clean or replace your dishcloth. 

How to Get the Smell Out of Dishcloths?

Dishcloths are essential for keeping our kitchens clean but often become a breeding ground for unpleasant odors. Over time, they trap food particles, oils, and moisture, which create a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.

Step 1: Pre-Soak in Vinegar

Vinegar’s acetic helps reduce bacteria and breaks down food particles that cause odors. It’s safe, affordable, and leaves no chemical residue.

Soaking dishcloths in white vinegar can eliminate the smell. Mix a 1:1 ratio of white vinegar and warm water in a bowl.

Then submerge the dish completely and let it soak for 30 minutes. The vinegar’s acid will penetrate the fibers, neutralizing smells. Rinse the cloth thoroughly afterward to remove any lingering vinegar scent.

Pro tip: Add 1-2 drops of lemon or tea tree oil to the soak for extra freshness (optional).

Step 2: Wash with Hot Water and Detergent

The next step is to wash the cloth in hot water with detergent. Germs die at temperatures above 140°F (60°C), and hot water kills germs and loosens grime stuck in the fabric.

You can use 1-2 tablespoons of mild dish soap or laundry detergent to clean the dishcloth. Avoid heavily perfumed detergents as they can leave behind chemicals that mask smells instead of removing them.

If you are washing by hand, scrub the cloth against a scrubbing brush or grate for 2-3 minutes. You can also toss dishcloths in a washing machine with towels (they help scrub the cloth clean). 

Step 3: Add Baking Soda for Extra Freshness

Baking soda is a great way to make your dishcloth smell fresh and clean. It works by removing bad odors and balancing the pH levels. Here’s how you can use it:

Add ½ cup of baking soda to the detergent compartment of your washing machine for a quick wash. This will give your dishcloth an extra freshness boost while it’s being washed.

If your dishcloth has tough stains or strong smells, try soaking it. Mix ¼ cup of baking soda with warm water in a bowl, then soak the cloth for 10 minutes. After soaking, rinse it well with clean water.

Step 4: Dry Thoroughly

Drying is the final step after washing your dishcloth. Germs and mildew can’t survive in dry conditions, so make sure the cloth is fully dried.

The best method for drying dishcloth is to hang it in direct sunlight. UV rays from the sun act as a natural disinfectant and kill remaining bacteria and bleach out stains. Make sure it’s fully dry, which can take around 4-6 hours.

If you are using a dryer, set it in high heat (if the fabric allows) for 30-40 minutes. Never use fabric softener, as it traps the odors in the dishcloth.

You can clean the damp cloth in a microwave using a microwave-safe bowl. Just microwave at a high temperature for 2-3 minutes. It kills germs and dries the dishcloth quickly. But make sure the cloth is wet and contains no metal parts before microwaving.

Tip: Regular rotation is key to preventing odor buildup. Keep multiple dishcloths on hand and switch them out daily. This gives each cloth time to dry fully and reduces the chance of bacterial growth

Easy Tips for Keeping Dishcloths Fresh

Dishcloths get stinky quite fast. You can keep your dishcloth smelling clean by following these simple tips:

Rotate dishcloths regularly to avoid letting them get overly smelly. Don’t wait until a cloth is gross or stinky to replace it. The odors and germs had already built up by that time. Instead, use one cloth for a day or two, then switch to a fresh one.

Having multiple dishcloths on rotation means you’ll always have enough time to thoroughly wash and dry them between uses.

Use different dishcloths for different tasks to stop germs from spreading. For example, use one cloth only for wiping counters, another for washing dishes, and a third for cleaning up spills.

This helps prevent cross-contamination, like using a cloth that wipes up raw meat juices to dry a clean plate. Separating tasks keeps each cloth from absorbing a mix of smells and harmful bacteria. It also makes them easy to clean and keep fresh overall.

Rinse your cloth right after using it. A quick rinse under running water washes away food scraps, oils, and soap residue before they dry onto the fabric.

The dishcloths become a breeding ground for germs if you let the particles sit in the cloth for a longer time. Keep a small bowl of soapy water near the sink to dunk the cloth in between uses and then hang it up to air-dry partially. It stops smells from forming in the first place.

How to Prevent Smells From Coming Back?

Keeping your dishcloths fresh for a longer time is all about stopping them from smelling before they start. Here’s how you can do it:

Store them properly after each use: Always let dishcloths dry completely before storing them. Germs and mildew thrive in damp environments. You can prevent this by hanging the cloth on a hook or drying rack near a sunny spot. A well-ventilated spot ensures airflow and keeps the cloth dry and odor-free.

Use multiple dishcloths and rotate them often: Keep 3 - 4 dishcloths on rotation so you’re never forced to reuse a damp or smelly one. Wash them every 2 - 3 days to keep them clean after use, even if they don’t smell bad. This prevents bacteria buildup and makes sure that you always have a clean cloth ready.

Choose dishcloths with antibacterial features: Some dishcloths can naturally inhibit bacterial growth. They are usually made with antimicrobial materials, like bamboo fibers or fabrics treated with silver ions. These dishcloths are a small investment that can cut down on odors and the frequency of washing.

Sanitize between uses: If a cloth is used for especially messy jobs (like raw meat or greasy spills), microwave it for 1 - 2 minutes on high heat to kill germs before reusing it. It stops odors from setting in and keeps the cloth hygienic.

Avoid overloading soap or detergent: Too much soap leaves residues on the cloth and traps food particles that create new smells. Use just enough detergent to clean without leaving a firm.

You can prevent smells from building up by following these simple tips in the first place. Prevention is easier than constantly fighting with bad smells. 

Final Words

Keeping dishcloths clean and odor-free is a simple way to protect your health and keep your kitchen fresh. The steps we’ve covered, like soaking in vinegar, washing with hot water, and drying thoroughly, work together to eliminate germs and smells.

But the real key is prevention. By rotating dishcloths, rinsing after every use, and storing them properly, you stop odors before they start.

How to get the smell out of dishcloths naturally? Prioritize daily care. A stinky dishcloth is a breeding ground for bacteria that can spread to your food, dishes, and family. Taking 5 minutes a day to rinse, rotate, or sanitize your dishcloths keeps your kitchen safe and your tools ready for action.