If your towels smell fine out of the dryer… then turn musty the moment they get damp again, you’re not imagining it. That “wet dog” funk usually means one thing:

Residue + moisture = a party for odor-causing microbes.

The good news: you don’t need a new washer, a fancy detergent, or 12 scented boosters. You need a reset—and a couple habit tweaks that keep the problem from coming back.

Why towels get musty (the non-judgy version)

Most musty-towel situations come from a mix of:

  • Too much detergent or softener (it can build up and trap soil)
  • Not enough rinsing (especially in high-efficiency washers when overdosing detergent)
  • Towels staying damp too long (in the hamper, on a hook, or in the washer overnight)
  • Washer buildup (gasket/dispenser/drum residue that transfers back to fabrics)

The 30-minute towel reset (do this today)

Before you start: check the care labels on your towels.

Step 1: Wash with hot water (if allowed) and no detergent

  • Run a hot cycle (or the warmest allowed).
  • Add no detergent.

Why: This cycle helps flush out some of the leftover detergent/softener residue.

Step 2: Run an extra rinse (or a second wash)

If your machine has “extra rinse,” use it. If not, do a second rinse-only cycle.

Step 3: Dry thoroughly (airflow matters)

Dry towels completely. Avoid overloading the dryer—airflow is what dries.

If the smell keeps coming back: the “deep clean” version

This is when you suspect washer buildup or heavy residue in the towels.

Step 1: Clean the washer (especially if it smells)

Use your washer’s tub clean / clean washer cycle if it has one, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for approved cleaners and settings.

Why: If the machine is funky, your “clean” towels will pick up that funk again.

Step 2: Rewash towels with correct dosing

Measure detergent. Seriously. Most people use more than needed, and over time it can make towels less absorbent and more odor-prone.

The habits that keep towels fluffy (and not haunted)

Habit 1: Stop using fabric softener on towels

Softener can coat fibers and reduce absorbency. For many towels, it also contributes to buildup over time.

Habit 2: Don’t let wet towels sit

  • Hang towels open and flat so they dry quickly.
  • Don’t pile damp towels in a hamper.
  • If your washer ends at night, move towels to dry before you sleep (future-you will thank you).

Habit 3: Use the right load size

Overloading makes towels rub less, rinse less, and dry slower.

  • In the washer: towels should have room to tumble.
  • In the dryer: don’t pack it tight—airflow is the drying engine.

Habit 4: Keep the washer door/dispenser from becoming a swamp

Moisture + residue in the washer can create odors that transfer back onto fabric.

  • Leave the door cracked after loads (when safe/possible).
  • Wipe the gasket and detergent drawer occasionally.
  • Run the manufacturer-recommended cleaning routine on schedule.

“Do I need to disinfect my towels?”

Usually, no. Most everyday laundry doesn’t require disinfection. If someone in the home is sick or towels are heavily soiled, follow reputable public-health guidance for handling and laundering.

The key is: wash using the warmest water appropriate for the fabric and dry items completely, and handle soiled laundry carefully (don’t shake it).

Quick troubleshooting

  • Towels feel stiff AND smell musty: suspect buildup (detergent/softener) + not enough rinsing. Do the reset, then reduce dosing.
  • Washer smells even when empty: clean the washer (gasket, drawer, drum) per the manufacturer.
  • Smell is only in one towel: it likely stayed damp too long. Rewash and dry thoroughly.

The “keep it fresh” shopping list (optional, not a must)

You can solve this without buying anything new, but these help:

  • A detergent cup you actually use (measuring beats guessing)
  • A small microfiber cloth for wiping the gasket/drawer
  • A laundry basket that allows airflow (or at least don’t pack damp towels tight)

Sources

  • American Cleaning Institute (ACI) on how fabric softeners work (fiber coating) and usage considerations: https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clothes/fabric-softeners-and-enhancers-comprehensive-guide
  • Whirlpool guide on cleaning washers and odor/buildup prevention (follow your model’s manual): https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/washers-and-dryers/clean-washing-machine.html
  • CDC guidance for handling/laundering linens in infection-control contexts (general principles: don’t shake, launder properly, dry thoroughly): https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/environmental-control/laundry-bedding.html