When clothes are air-dried instead of being put in a dryer, they usually have a more natural and fresh scent. However, the smell of air-dried clothes can depend on various factors:
Environmental conditions: If clothes are dried outdoors in a clean and fresh environment, they are likely to pick up the pleasant scent of the outdoors, such as the smell of grass, flowers, or the crisp air. On the other hand, if clothes are dried indoors in a space with poor ventilation or odors, they might not smell as pleasant.
Detergent and fabric softener: The type of detergent and fabric softener used during the washing process can influence the smell of air-dried clothes. Some detergents and softeners have specific scents that can add a pleasant fragrance to the clothes.
Drying time: If clothes are left to air dry for an extended period, especially in humid conditions, they may develop a musty smell due to the growth of mildew or bacteria.
Previous odors: If the clothes had any odors before being washed, air-drying might not completely remove those smells. In contrast, a dryer's high heat can sometimes help eliminate certain odors.
Fabric type: Some fabrics tend to retain smells more than others. For example, synthetic fabrics might trap odors more effectively than natural fibers like cotton or linen.
Overall, air-dried clothes are generally less likely to have a strong, artificial scent compared to clothes that have been dried using dryer sheets or fabric softeners in a machine dryer. However, the perception of smell can vary from person to person, and some individuals might prefer the fresh scent of air-dried clothes, while others may prefer the scent of dryer-dried clothes.