Why Swedish Dishcloths Smell and How to Prevent It

Quick Answer

A sour or musty smell means bacteria or mold are growing in trapped moisture and food particles. The fix is a thorough hot-water wash or a brief boil, followed by proper drying between uses.

Diagnose and Fix Dishcloth Odor

• Symptom: Sour or musty smell when the cloth is damp: The cloth was left wet in a sink, on a counter, or in a closed laundry basket for more than a few hours. Bacteria and mold are feeding on trapped food particles and soap residue. Do not use bleach or fabric softener; they can break down the cellulose fibers and reduce absorbency.
• Likely Cause: Trapped moisture and food debris: Rinsing alone does not remove all particles. Soap scum and grease build up over time, creating a breeding ground for microbes. The cloth may also be drying too slowly in a humid or poorly ventilated area. If the smell persists after washing, the cloth may need a deeper clean. Skip the microwave method for printed dishcloths, as the heat can damage the design.
• Corrective Action: Hot-water sanitizing wash: Machine wash the cloth in hot water (at least 140°F / 60°C) with a small amount of regular laundry detergent. Alternatively, boil the cloth in water for 5 minutes, then let it cool. Both methods kill odor-causing bacteria without harsh chemicals. After washing, wring out the cloth thoroughly and hang it in a well-ventilated spot or lay it flat to dry completely before the next use.
• Stop or Choose Another Option: When the cloth smells even after sanitizing: If the odor returns immediately after cleaning, the cloth may have a deep-set stain or embedded residue that cannot be removed. At this point, replace the cloth. A fresh Swedish dishcloth costs less than a pack of paper towels and performs like new. To extend the life of your cloths, rotate between two or three sets so each one has time to dry fully between uses.

Products That Help You Stay Consistent

• Eco-Friendly Swedish Dishcloths - Wood Duck Set of 3 (Paper Towel Replacements): Each Swedish dishcloth can replace up to 17 rolls of paper towels and absorbs 20 times its weight in liquid. Because they hold so much moisture, proper drying between uses is critical to prevent the damp conditions that cause odor.