We use teething bibs (the ones with the plastic between the layers) and we leave them outside to dry thoroughly in the sun before washing. I launder them about every two days. No matter what I do lately, though, they all have a permanent mildew smell even after being washed. So far I have tried warm and hot water wash settings, color safe bleach, vinegar, natural sunlight and hot dryer settings. Any suggestions on banishing the smell would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
I'd say forget using color bibs and just bleach in hot water wash.
I think the plastic is trapping the smell. I would switch to the kind without the plastic. But using vinegar or baking soda might work also.
Have you done hot water and vinegar together? That's what I do to get rid of the smell. I always wash all bibs, towels, and undies in hot water to combat this issue before it arises, perhaps if you've been using cold water up until now it's too late? I'm not sure! I hope you figure it out!
Have you tried soaking them in the vinegar/water solution for a length of time before washing? Also, I've had some luck with borox with various "natural odors." You can soak something, or just add it to your washer. I don't know if it is supposed to be used with HE machines that require the special detergent. It's a cheap thing to try though.
