If your towels are coming out of the wash with a less-than-fresh scent, there's an unconventional liquid you might want to try adding to your laundry routine to improve things16:12, 14 Jun 2026Updated 16:12, 14 Jun 2026If you're getting sick of your freshly washed towels emerging from the wash smelling less than fresh, there's an unconventional liquid you might want to introduce to your laundry routine.Social media is flooded with people moaning about their towels smelling "funky", but now it doesn't have to be this way. That's because there are plenty of cleaning hacks which can get down to the problem – and it's often using ingredients which are already sitting in your cupboard. Now one expert revealed her savvy trick and it's going down a treat online.TikTok user @brunchwithbabs, better known as Babs, revealed the secret weapon against stubborn "stinky odours that cling" is vodka.How to remove bad odours from towels:In her viral clip, she explained: "I learned this one from my grandmother. A simple spray of vodka can eliminate odours on clothing, furniture, upholstery and even mattresses. All you need is vodka and a spray bottle - make sure your spray bottle has a mist setting - not just a straight spray."When spraying clothes, concentrate on areas that tend to gather more bacteria and thus smell, such as under the sleeves."Hold the spray about 18 inches away and use a sweeping motion. She said that the vodka works by attaching itself to the smelly molecules that naturally occur and then ferment, which leads to odours."So goodbye smelly clothes and no more wasting time and money on cleaning or dry cleaning after every wear."Content cannot be displayed without consentPlumbworld expert Jennifer Shaw also backed up the effectiveness of this technique, as she said: "Vodka is a great disinfectant. It's known for its ability to kill bacteria and neutralise odours, which is why it's effective in eliminating musty smells from towels."However, the specialists have a rather unconventional approach. Simply pour a modest measure of vodka — roughly a cupful — straight into the washing machine alongside your usual detergent.The alcohol disappears during the washing and drying cycle, leaving absolutely no residue or scent behind.Jennifer reassured that using vodka in your wash won't harm your towels or your washing machine. She revealed: "The washing process gets rid of the alcohol, so there's no need to worry. Sometimes the best solutions are the ones you least expect."What other hacks for fresh towels:Additional handy laundry tips include using bicarbonate of soda, as it "is another excellent addition to your laundry routine".Jennifer claimed it helps to soften water as she added: "Which in turn enhances the effectiveness of your detergent. Plus, it can brighten whites and remove odours."You might also consider trying hydrogen peroxide, particularly when dealing with especially stubborn stains. Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleach and disinfectant which is "fantastic" for removing stains from white towels.Article continues belowJennifer also assured it's vital to dry your laundry completely "before storing it".She advised: "Any remaining moisture can lead to mildew and musty smells. If possible, hang clothes outside to dry in the sun - the UV rays act as a natural disinfectant."