How to Remove Musty Odor from White Rice: 6 Easy & Natural Fixes

Have you ever opened your rice container only to be met with a musty smell? This is usually caused by improper storage or keeping rice for too long, which leads to excess moisture and microbial growth. 

Musty-smelling rice doesn’t just ruin the aroma—it also affects the overall taste and quality of your cooked rice. But no worries, Mak Cuss! Here are some effective and natural ways to get rid of that unpleasant smell.  

How to Fix Musty Smell in White Rice

Concerned about musty rice even though it hasn’t been stored for long? Here are some quick fixes:
 
1. Use Dried Kaffir Lime Leaves
Place 3–4 dried kaffir lime leaves into your rice container. For better results, you can crush or grate the leaves and mix them into the rice bin.
These leaves contain natural essential oils that neutralize odors and give your rice a refreshing citrus aroma. Replace the leaves every 1–2 weeks, and don’t forget to occasionally air out the container.

2. Add Tamarind Leaves
Another option is to use dried tamarind leaves. Their antibacterial properties can help eliminate unpleasant smells and keep your rice fresh. Simply place the leaves in a perforated plastic bag, and tuck it inside your rice container.
Bonus tip: Tamarind leaves can also help repel insects and keep your rice bug-free.

3. Sun-Dry the Rice
This traditional method is super effective. Spread the rice evenly on a tray or woven bamboo mat, then sun-dry it for about 30 minutes under direct sunlight.
Sunlight helps evaporate excess moisture and kills odor-causing microbes. Try to do this before cooking to restore freshness.

4. Clean the Container with Vinegar
Sometimes, the musty smell comes from a dirty rice container. Clean it thoroughly using a mixture of vinegar and warm water in a 1:3 ratio. Rinse well and let it dry completely before using it again.
Do this once a month to prevent odor buildup and kill off any insect eggs or mold.

5. Rinse the Rice Properly
Rinse the rice under running water until the final rinse water is clear. This process helps remove dirt and some of the lingering smell.
But don’t overdo it—excessive washing can strip away essential nutrients, especially those found on the surface of the rice grain. Just rinse it 2–3 times for best results.

6. Add Lime Juice Before Cooking
A final tip: add a few drops of lime juice before cooking your rice. Around 2 tablespoons of lime juice will do the trick.
The citric acid in lime neutralizes the musty odor and adds a naturally refreshing aroma. It won’t significantly change the flavor—if anything, it’ll make the rice smell even more appetizing!
 

Prevention is Better Than Cure

While the tips above can help remove unwanted smells, it’s always better to prevent the problem altogether. One way to do that is by choosing a high-quality rice brand, such as Beras Maknyuss.

Beras Maknyuss is processed using modern technology without fragrance, bleach, or preservatives, resulting in rice that stays naturally fresh and aromatic.

So, if you want to enjoy every bite of soft and fragrant rice, head to the nearest Maknyuss retailer, agent, or store and pick up a pack of Beras Maknyuss today!