Why You Should Deep Clean Your Laundry Basket: A Simple Step for a Fresher Laundry Routine

We all know that washing our clothes is essential to keeping them fresh and clean, but have you ever thought about cleaning the laundry basket that holds them? Over time, your laundry basket can become a breeding ground for bacteria, germs, and even mold—especially if you toss in sweaty workout gear or damp towels.

At Made New Laundry, we believe that a clean laundry basket is just as important as clean clothes! Here’s why deep cleaning your laundry basket should be part of your regular routine and how to easily add this task to your weekly or monthly laundry schedule.

Why You Should Deep Clean Your Laundry Basket

Your laundry basket might not seem like a major culprit when it comes to germs, but it actually collects a lot of dirt and bacteria over time. Dirty clothes, especially after workouts or long days, can transfer bacteria, sweat, and skin cells into the basket. If damp items like towels or wet swimsuits sit too long, the moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow.

Here’s why it’s important to clean your laundry basket regularly:

• Bacteria Build-Up: Sweat, body oils, and dirt from clothes accumulate in your laundry basket, creating the perfect conditions for bacteria to thrive.

• Odors: Over time, the combination of dirt, moisture, and bacteria can cause your laundry basket to develop an unpleasant odor.

• Cross-Contamination: If your basket holds both dirty and freshly washed clothes, cross-contamination can occur, transferring germs back onto your clean laundry.

• Mold and Mildew: Damp clothes left in the basket can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can ruin clothes and create health concerns.

By deep cleaning your laundry basket on a regular basis, you can prevent the build-up of germs, protect your clothes, and keep your laundry routine hygienic and fresh.

How to Deep Clean Your Laundry Basket

Cleaning your laundry basket doesn’t take long, but it can make a big difference in maintaining a healthy laundry routine. Follow these easy steps to give your basket a fresh start:

1. Empty the Basket: Remove all clothes and make sure the basket is empty before you start cleaning.

2. Wipe it Down: Use a disinfecting wipe or a cloth soaked in soapy water to wipe down the entire basket, including the handles and any crevices where dirt can collect. For plastic or metal baskets, you can use a mild disinfectant spray for extra germ-fighting power.

3. Soak it (For Heavy Soiling): If your laundry basket is particularly dirty, fill your bathtub or large sink with warm, soapy water and let the basket soak for 15-20 minutes. This will help loosen dirt, bacteria, and any mold or mildew that may be present.

4. Scrub: Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub away any stains or grime, especially in hard-to-reach areas like the corners or edges.

5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the basket thoroughly with clean water and allow it to air-dry completely before using it again. For fabric baskets, it’s best to let them dry in direct sunlight to help kill any remaining bacteria.

How Often Should You Clean Your Laundry Basket?

Cleaning your laundry basket doesn’t need to be a daily task, but adding it to your weekly or monthly laundry routine can make a big difference in keeping your laundry area fresh and germ-free. Here’s a general guideline for how often you should deep clean your basket:

• Weekly: If you regularly toss in damp towels, workout gear, or sweaty clothes, aim to clean your laundry basket once a week. This will help prevent bacteria and mildew build-up.

• Monthly: For those who primarily wash lightly soiled clothes, deep cleaning your basket once a month is a good rule of thumb.

You can fit this simple task into your laundry day when you visit Made New Laundry! While your clothes are in our high-efficiency washers and dryers, take a few minutes to clean your laundry basket, ensuring that it stays as fresh as your newly washed clothes.

Keep Your Laundry Routine Hygienic

A clean laundry basket is an important part of an overall fresh and hygienic laundry routine. By adding a quick deep clean to your weekly or monthly routine, you can keep germs, odors, and mildew at bay—and make sure your clothes stay cleaner for longer.

At Made New Laundry, we’re here to help you make laundry easier and more efficient, from our spacious, high-performance washers and dryers to helpful tips for keeping your home laundry routine in top shape. Stop by today to tackle your laundry load in a clean and comfortable environment!