How to Keep Clothes Fresh Between Washes, According to Laundry Pros

There’s nothing worse than reaching for your favorite sweater and realizing it feels stale or stiff, rather than freshly-washed and fluffy—especially when you know it should be clean.

But before you start pouring in capfuls of detergent or loading up on fabric softener, our experts are here to spill exactly how to keep clothes fresh, both in terms of scent and fabric quality.

Wash at the Lowest Possible Temperature

Although washing a load of towels or sheets with hot water is great for disinfecting and breaking down bacteria, higher temperatures are often too powerful for clothing.

“Hot water can break down fibers and lock in smells on synthetic clothing,” laundry expert Alicia Sokolowski says. “Cold and warm water preserve fabric integrity, and can still clean effectively.”

If in doubt, check the label on each of your items to find the ideal temperature setting for an effective yet gentle clean.

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Use Detergent According to Instructions

Loading up on as much detergent as possible may seem like it would help achieve that freshly-washed scent, but pros say it can actually do the opposite; it’s a mistake that’s harmful for both your machine and items.

“Make sure to use the right—and the correct amount—of detergent,” laundry pro Jacqueline Sava says. “Most of us use too much, which can lead to residue on the fibers. Your favorite clothes don’t need harsh whiteners, brighteners, or heavy ingredients.”

Avoid Overfilling the Washer (and Your Wardrobe)

Our experts all agree: overfilling a washing machine prevents clothes from feeling fresh. But according to Sokolowski, cramming items in when putting your laundry away can be just as much of a culprit.

“Overloading prevents water and detergent from circulating properly,” she explains. “Clothes that don’t rinse fully end up with lingering odors and rougher textures. Always leave space in the drum for proper agitation—and avoid overstuffed drawers or plastic bins, which trap humidity and smells.”

Dry Clothes Fully Before Storing

When it comes to keeping clothes fresh, the way you dry is just as important as the way you wash. If space and weather allow, laundry expert Frej Lewenhaupt encourages air-drying outside to minimize signs of wear and fading; if not, a tumble dry on low is the way to go.

No matter which drying method you use, the key to preserving that just-laundered feeling—and preventing mildewy smells—is ensuring items are completely dry before putting them away.

Don’t Wash Too Often

When it comes to items like denim, knitwear, bras, and briefly-worn evening dresses, washing after every use isn’t necessary for maintaining a crisp and clean feel.

“To keep your clothes looking fresh and new for longer, I recommend washing less,” Lewenhaupt says. “While it may sound counterintuitive, frequent laundering slowly causes wear and tear, leading to discoloration and misshapen clothing.”

Air Clothes Out After Wear

If you are planning to put a sweater or pair of jeans away after a quick coffee or dinner out, giving your clothes some time to breathe before putting them back is key to keeping them ready for their next use.

“You can certainly get multiple wears out of clothes between washes, but be sure to air them out before putting them back,” Sava suggests. “If your clothes aren’t aired out before being stuffed in a drawer, whatever odors or ambient dirt are still on them will transfer onto other clothes.”

Start Steaming

If you’re re-wearing an item and it doesn’t feel quite as clean as you’d like, you don’t have to throw it in the washing machine yet; Lewenhaupt recommends breaking out the steamer instead.

“My top tip for keeping your lightly-worn garments fresh in between washes is steaming,” he says. “The hot steam kills bacteria, surface dirt, and odors while removing wrinkles to leave your clothes clean and fresh without an official wash.”

Freshen With Scent Post-Wash

Instead of loading up on detergent or fabric softener during laundry cycles, our pros recommend bringing the scent factor after the fact—either through fabric sprays or scented solutions in clothing storage areas.

“Cedar blocks, dried lavender sachets, or baking soda pouches in closets and drawers can absorb moisture and release a gentle, clean scent,” Sokolowski says. “You can also use a natural linen spray or diluted vinegar-water spritz to refresh clothes without overwashing. This helps prevent detergent buildup, as well as fabric fatigue.”