How to Eliminate Stubborn Odors From Dish Towels and Sponges (Simple Methods That Actually Work)

Does opening your kitchen towel drawer hit you with an unpleasant smell that makes you cringe? That musty, sour odor from dish towels and sponges is one of the most frustrating kitchen problems, and you’re definitely not alone in dealing with it. Even with regular washing, these essential cleaning tools can develop persistent odors that seem impossible to eliminate.

This guide provides six proven methods that will completely deodorize your dish towels and sponges using simple household ingredients. We’ve researched the science behind these stubborn odors and tested practical solutions that work every time. You’ll have fresh, clean-smelling kitchen textiles again within hours, not days.

At a Glance: The Best Solutions

Quick Reference Table for Deodorizing Methods

When you’re battling a smelly dish towel or a stinky kitchen sponge, knowing which method to reach for can save time and effort. This table gives you a fast, clear snapshot so you can choose the right approach based on your item and the odor’s severity.

Baking soda soaks work wonders for deodorizing dirty dish towels that have absorbed strong food smells or for sponges that feel slimy. If you notice mildew or a residue film, a quick white vinegar rinse can cut through buildup and leave items smelling fresh. For sponges that need a rapid reset between uses, the microwave steam trick offers a fast, though less thorough, option. Baking soda can also be used for a variety of cleaning tasks around the house, making it a versatile addition to your cleaning routine. There are 53 clever ways to clean almost everything with baking soda, ensuring your home stays fresh and tidy.

Boiling water delivers the most intense bacterial kill-ideal when your sponge or towel smells sour or rotten. And when you’re washing a whole load of cleaning smelly dish towels, pairing your regular detergent with vinegar or baking soda in the machine gives you a deep clean without harsh chemicals.

No matter your method, deodorizing sponges and dish towels isn’t just about smell-it’s about hygiene. Keeping these items odorless helps maintain a cleaner kitchen environment overall.

The Science Made Simple: Why This Problem Happens

The Perfect Storm Of Moisture and Bacteria

Dish towels and sponges live in a constant state of dampness, creating an ideal breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. Warmth from your kitchen and residual moisture trap microbes that thrive in humid, dark corners-like inside a crumpled towel or a dense sponge. Without proper drying, these items become a microbial buffet, turning your cleaning tools into sources of lingering smells. Keeping your kitchen clean also involves addressing odors that can arise from appliances like your dishwasher. A deep clean of your dishwasher can eliminate smells caused by food particles and buildup, keeping it fresh and odor-free.

How Food Particles Create Lasting Odors

Even after rinsing, tiny bits of grease, starch, and protein cling to fibers and pores. These food residues break down over time, feeding bacteria that emit foul-smelling byproducts like sulfur compounds and fatty acids. That “smelly dish towel” or “stinky dish sponge” isn’t just dirty-it’s hosting a slow-motion decomposition party.

Why Traditional Washing Sometimes Isn’t Enough

Regular laundry or a quick rinse removes surface grime but often misses embedded organic matter deep in fabric weaves or sponge matrices. Standard detergents may not neutralize odor molecules—they just mask them. Without a targeted approach for deodorizing dish towels or sponges, smells return faster than you’d expect, even after a full wash cycle. To effectively tackle musty odors, consider using a mix of white vinegar and baking soda during washing. This method not only helps eliminate the mildew smell but also keeps your towels fresh and clean.

1. The Baking Soda Deep Soak Method

What You’ll Need

• 1/2 cup baking soda
• Hot (not boiling) water
• A large bowl, bucket, or sink
• Dish towels or sponges in need of deodorizing

Step-by-step Instructions for Dish Towels

1. Fill your sink or basin with enough hot water to fully submerge the towels.
2. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda and stir until dissolved.
3. Place smelly dish towels into the solution, pressing them down to release trapped air.
4. Let soak for at least 2 hours-or overnight for heavily soiled or musty-smelling items.
5. Rinse thoroughly with cool water, then launder as usual or air-dry completely.

How to Adapt This Method for Sponges

1. Use the same baking soda-to-water ratio in a small bowl.
2. Submerge the sponge fully and squeeze it gently to draw the solution into its pores.
3. Soak for 2 to 4 hours-longer if the sponge has a strong sour or mildewy odor.
4. Rinse under running water while squeezing repeatedly until the water runs clear.
5. Wring out completely and let dry upright in a well-ventilated spot.

When to Use This Approach

Reach for the baking soda soak when dealing with persistent or heavy odors-like sour milk, onion residue, or that “wet dog” smell from forgotten damp towels. This method is ideal for deodorizing dirty dish towels and cleaning smelly sponges without harsh chemicals, making it a go-to for weekly maintenance or emergency odor control.

Also See: How to Make Your Laminate Floors Shine Like New

2. The White Vinegar Power Rinse

Materials Required

• 1 cup white distilled vinegar (5% acidity)
• 1 cup water (optional for dilution)
• A bowl or container large enough for your items

The 30-minute Vinegar Treatment

For Dish Towels

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a basin (or use undiluted vinegar for tough odors).
2. Submerge the towels completely, ensuring fibers are saturated.
3. Let sit for 30 minutes-no longer, as prolonged exposure can weaken cotton over time.
4. Rinse well under cold water until the vinegar smell dissipates.
5. Wash in the machine or hang to dry in direct sunlight for extra freshness.

For Kitchen Sponges

1. Pour undiluted white vinegar into a small bowl-enough to cover the sponge.
2. Drop in the sponge and press down to expel air and absorb the liquid.
3. Soak for exactly 30 minutes to break down odor-causing biofilms.
4. Remove, rinse thoroughly under running water while squeezing repeatedly.
5. Place on a drying rack or near a window to dry fully before reuse.

Why Vinegar Works So Well

White vinegar’s acetic acid disrupts bacterial cell walls and dissolves mineral deposits and soap scum that trap smells. It’s especially effective for mildew, hard water buildup, and organic residues that standard rinsing misses-making it a powerhouse for how to deodorize dish sponge and towel deodorizing alike. Plus, the vinegar scent vanishes once dry, leaving behind a truly odorless dish towel or sponge. Many people also use vinegar to make all-purpose cleaning spray, which combines its cleaning properties with other ingredients for a versatile cleaning solution.

3. The Hot Water Boiling Technique

Safety Considerations First

Boiling water is powerful but demands caution. Always use heat-resistant gloves when handling the pot, and never leave boiling water unattended. Ensure your stovetop is stable and that you’re using a pot large enough to fully submerge your items without overcrowding.

The Complete Boiling Process

Preparing Your Items

1. Rinse dish towels or sponges under cold water to remove loose debris.
2. For towels, wring them out gently; for sponges, squeeze until no excess water drips.
3. Inspect for heavy grease or food residue-pre-rinse again if needed.

The 10-Minute Boil

1. Fill a large pot with enough water to completely cover your items.
2. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3. Carefully submerge dish towels or sponges using tongs.
4. Reduce heat slightly to maintain a steady boil and let items simmer for 10 minutes.

This high-heat treatment is one of the most effective ways for how to disinfect dish towels and achieve an odorless sponge by killing odor-causing bacteria at the source.

Post-Boiling Care

1. Turn off the heat and use tongs to remove items-never reach in with bare hands.
2. Lay dish towels flat on a clean drying rack or hang them immediately to air-dry fully.
3. For sponges, squeeze out excess water and place on a well-ventilated surface away from sink splatter.

Which Items Can Handle This Method

Cotton or linen dish towels respond well to boiling, but avoid this method for synthetic blends that may melt or degrade. Natural cellulose or durable plastic sponges can withstand boiling, but skip it for delicate or non-heat-resistant scrub pads. This technique is ideal for deodorizing dirty dish towels with stubborn, deep-set smells that survive regular washing.

4. The Microwave Steam Sanitization

Sponge-only Method Guidelines

This method is exclusively for sponges-never microwave dish towels, as they can catch fire or scorch. Only use sponges that are completely wet and free of metal scrubbers or non-microwave-safe materials.

The 2-minute Steam Process

1. Soak your sponge in clean water until fully saturated-no dry spots.
2. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl (optional but recommended to catch drips).
3. Heat on high for 2 minutes. You’ll see steam rising-that’s the sanitizing action at work.
4. Let it sit inside the microwave for 1–2 minutes before removing to avoid burns.

This quick technique is perfect for sponge deodorizing and offers a fast route to an odorless dish towel alternative when you’re short on time-though remember, it’s sponge-only.

Safety Tips for Microwave Deodorizing

• Never microwave a dry or partially dry sponge-it can ignite.
• Avoid sponges with metallic scrub pads or embedded glitter.
• Use oven mitts when removing the bowl-steam and surfaces get extremely hot.
• Clean your microwave afterward to remove any lingering odors or residue.

When This Method Works Best

Use microwave steam sanitization for daily maintenance of mildly smelly sponges or after light kitchen tasks. It’s not strong enough for heavily soiled or greasy sponges, but it’s a reliable go-to for cleaning dish sponges between deeper cleanings.

5. The Washing Machine Power Cycle

Setting Up Your Machine for Success

Water Temperature Settings

For effective deodorizing dish towels, always use the hottest water safe for the fabric-typically 130°F (54°C) or higher. High heat helps dissolve oils and kill bacteria that cause lingering odors in smelly dish towel situations.

Detergent and Additive Combinations

• Use a full dose of regular laundry detergent.
• Add ½ cup baking soda to boost odor neutralization.
• Optionally, include ½ cup white vinegar in the rinse cycle to strip soap residue and soften fibers.

This combo tackles both surface grime and embedded smells during how to deodorize towels in bulk.

The Two-cycle Deep Clean Process

1. Run a normal hot wash cycle with detergent and baking soda.
2. Without removing the towels, run a second rinse-only cycle with white vinegar added to the dispenser.
3. This double-cycle method ensures thorough cleaning for cleaning stinky dish towels that have absorbed cooking oils or spoiled food smells.

Drying Strategies That Prevent Re-contamination

Dry towels immediately after washing-never leave them damp in the machine. Use a high-heat dryer setting if fabric allows, or hang them outdoors in direct sunlight, which adds natural deodorizing and antibacterial benefits. Proper drying is crucial to maintaining odorless dish towel results and preventing the return of musty smells during towel deodorizing routines.

6. The Essential Oil Freshening Finish

Choosing the Right Essential Oils

Not all essential oils are created equal when it comes to deodorizing dish towels and deodorizing sponges. Look for oils with natural antibacterial and antifungal properties to support freshness beyond just scent. Lemon, tea tree, lavender, and eucalyptus oils are top performers for kitchen use—each helps neutralize lingering odors while discouraging microbial growth. To keep your home smelling fresh, integrating these oils into your cleaning routine can significantly enhance your environment. Consider exploring more tips for achieving a naturally fragrant home with essential oils and other deodorizing methods.

• Lemon oil: cuts through grease and leaves a clean citrus scent
• Tea tree oil: strong antimicrobial action, ideal for smelly dish towel recovery
• Lavender oil: calming aroma with mild antibacterial benefits
• Eucalyptus oil: freshens and helps deter mold in humid environments

Application Methods That Actually Work

For Freshly Cleaned Towels

After washing and rinsing your towels, add a subtle, lasting freshness with this simple step:

1. Mix 10–15 drops of your chosen essential oil with 1 cup of distilled water in a clean spray bottle.
2. Lightly mist the towel while it’s still slightly damp or just before hanging it to dry.
3. Let it air-dry completely-avoid using heat right after, as it can evaporate the oil too quickly.

This technique supports a clean-smelling kitchen without interfering with absorbency or fabric integrity.

For Daily Sponge Maintenance

To keep your sponge smelling fresh between deep cleans, integrate essential oils into your routine:

1. Add 2–3 drops of tea tree or lemon oil directly onto a clean, damp sponge after rinsing.
2. Squeeze the sponge gently to distribute the oil through its pores.
3. Place it in a well-ventilated drying rack immediately to prevent moisture buildup.

This small habit enhances sponge deodorizing while offering continuous microbial support.

Natural Antibacterial Benefits

Beyond masking odors, certain essential oils actively help reduce the bacteria that cause them. Tea tree and lemon oils, in particular, have been studied for their ability to inhibit common kitchen microbes like E. coli and Salmonella. While they’re not a substitute for thorough cleaning, they can be a valuable final step in your how to deodorize dish towels routine-adding a layer of natural protection that supports long-term freshness.

5 Habits to Keep Odors From Coming Back

Daily Rinsing and Wringing Techniques

After each use, rinse your dish towel or sponge under hot running water to flush out food particles and soap residue. Then, wring it out thoroughly—twist firmly from the center outward to remove as much moisture as possible. How to get smell out of towels often starts with this one simple step: less moisture means fewer places for bacteria to thrive. Keeping your dish towels fresh is important, as lingering odors can sometimes transfer to your clothes. Ensuring a clean environment for your laundry can help remove smells from clothes more effectively.

Proper Air-drying Positioning

Never toss a damp towel in a pile or leave a sponge sitting in a puddle. Hang towels on a hook with good airflow-preferably near a window or vent. For sponges, use a drying rack that allows air to circulate on all sides. This reduces humidity around the material, directly combating the conditions that lead to smelly dish towel and cleaning stinky dish towels issues.

Weekly Deep Cleaning Schedule

Set a recurring weekly reminder to deep-clean all kitchen textiles and sponges. Rotate methods-use a baking soda soak one week, a vinegar rinse the next-to prevent odor-causing buildup. Consistency here is key to maintaining an odorless dish towel and odorless sponge over time, especially if you’re frequently doing cleaning smelly sponges or deodorizing dirty dish towels.

Storage Solutions That Support Freshness

Store clean, dry dish towels in a cool, dry cabinet-not bunched in a drawer with other linens. Keep sponges in open-air caddies away from the sink basin. Avoid enclosed containers unless the items are 100% dry; trapped humidity invites odors back fast. These small changes in organization make a big difference in long-term towel deodorizing success.

When to Replace Rather Than Restore

Even the best how do you deodorize towels method has limits. Replace dish towels with permanent stains, thinning fabric, or persistent smells that survive boiling and washing. For sponges, swap them out every 2–3 weeks-or immediately if they tear, smell sour after cleaning, or feel slimy. Sometimes, the most effective form of deodorize dish scrubber care is knowing when to start fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use These Deodorizing Methods on Other Kitchen Items, Like Cloth Napkins or Cleaning Rags?

Yes, most of these methods are safe for other washable kitchen textiles. For instance, the baking soda soak or white vinegar rinse works well on cloth napkins, oven mitts, and reusable cleaning cloths. Always check the care labels for heat sensitivity, especially before boiling or microwaving, to avoid damage.

However, avoid using the microwave steam method on items with metal components or synthetic fabrics that might melt. For non-fabric items, like plastic scrub brushes, stick to vinegar soaks or hot water rinses instead of high-heat techniques to ensure safety and effectiveness.

What is the Most Environmentally Friendly Deodorizing Method?

The baking soda soak or white vinegar rinse are top eco-friendly choices, as they use natural, biodegradable ingredients and minimal energy. These methods avoid harsh chemicals and reduce water waste compared to frequent machine washing, making them sustainable for regular use. For those looking to take eco-friendly cleaning to the next level, techniques such as using baking soda and vinegar specifically for oven cleaning can be remarkably effective.

To enhance eco-friendliness, always air-dry items after treatment instead of using a dryer. Additionally, repurpose old towels as cleaning rags before disposal to extend their life and reduce waste, aligning with a greener household routine.

Are There Any Instant Deodorizing Tricks for Emergencies When I Don’t Have Time for a Full Clean?

For a quick fix, rinse the item under hot water and wring it out thoroughly, then sprinkle with a pinch of baking soda or spritz with diluted lemon juice. This can neutralize odors temporarily until you can do a deep clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals for speed, as they may leave residues. If your refrigerator is giving off unpleasant smells, considering a natural deodorizer can be an effective way to combat those odors. Baking soda, placed in an open container, is often recommended among the best ways to deodorize a smelly refrigerator.

Another instant trick is to microwave a damp sponge for 30 seconds (if it’s microwave-safe) to kill surface bacteria causing smells. Always let it cool before use and follow up with a proper sanitization later to prevent odor recurrence.

Final Words

Your kitchen deserves fresh, clean dish towels and sponges that actually support your daily cooking and cleaning routine. These proven deodorizing methods will transform even the most stubborn, smelly kitchen textiles back into the clean, fresh tools you need. Whether you choose the overnight baking soda soak for heavy odors or the quick vinegar rinse for weekly maintenance, you now have reliable solutions that actually work.

The key to success lies in consistency with your chosen method and following those five daily habits that prevent odors from returning. Start with whichever technique feels most manageable for your schedule, then build your routine from there. Check out Savvy Dwelling for more practical home solutions that make your daily routines easier and more effective.

Try one of these deodorizing methods today and experience the difference truly fresh kitchen textiles can make in your cooking space. Your nose will thank you, and your kitchen will feel more welcoming than ever.

Additional Resources for You:

• How to deodorize your stuff and make air freshener – David Suzuki Foundation
• How To Clean Stinky Dishcloths – HAPPY SiNKS
• How to Keep Kitchen Towels Smelling Fresh | Epicurious
• How To Keep Dishrags from Smelling – Penny Pinchin’ Mom