I. Introduction
Sweat, smoke, cooking and other factors are reasons why clothes sometimes have an unpleasant smell. And it can be hard to eliminate that odor, regardless of how many times the clothes are washed. In this article, we will explore natural methods for removing odor from clothes, providing effective and easy solutions to rid your clothes of unwanted smells.
II. Using Baking Soda
Baking Soda is an effective deodorizer because it absorbs and neutralizes odors. To make use of its deodorizing properties, you can create a baking soda paste by mixing baking soda and water until the mixture reaches a thick consistency. Afterward, apply the paste directly onto the affected area of the clothing and let it set for a few minutes before washing away.
Another method is adding a cup of baking soda to the washing machine during the rinse cycle. This will help deodorize clothes. Be careful not to mix the baking soda with the detergent or it could cause clumping and decrease the efficacy of both products.
For best results, avoid using baking soda on delicate fabrics or items that may be prone to bleeding or staining. Furthermore, ensure that the baking soda paste has been adequately washed off before washing the clothing.
III. Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural fabric softener, and it also acts as an odor remover. One way to use it is to add it to the washing cycle. Add a cup of vinegar to a regular-sized load of laundry in the rinse cycle to break down any unpleasant odors. An alternative to this is to soak clothes in a vinegar solution for up to an hour before washing them.
It’s important to note that vinegar solutions may not work as well on oily fabrics such as silk or satin, which need a gentler approach. Still, vinegar solutions work well on synthetic materials such as polyester.
IV. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is perfect for odors caused by moisture, bacteria, and mildew. These charcoal briquettes are safe to use and can be placed in the dryer with clothes, helping to eliminate odors. You can also place small sachets or packets of activated charcoal in other odorous areas of your home, like the pantry or fridge.
While activated charcoal is an excellent option for odor removal, it can get a bit messy. Therefore, it is essential to be cautious while using it. A good practice is to wrap the charcoal briquette in a white cloth before placing it in the dryer to avoid staining clothes.
V. Lemon Juice
The acid in lemon juice acts as a natural deodorizer, making it an effective solution for smelly clothes. To rid your clothes of unpleasant odors, mix 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice in one cup of water. Using a spray bottle, apply the solution directly to the affected area in the clothing. Leave to soak for about 15 minutes, before washing.
Lemon juice has bleaching properties that may not be good for darker fabrics. So, it is important to be careful when using it in a solution for dark-colored clothes.
VI. Essential Oils
Essential oils are natural, fragrant oils which can be used to remove odors from clothes. Some of the most effective ones include lavender, tea tree, and eucalyptus oils. For use in the washing machine, mix five to ten drops of essential oil with the laundry detergent in the washing machine.
When using essential oils in the washing machine, add the drops of oil to a small portion of clothes first, like socks, to ensure that you are comfortable with the scent before putting the essential oils in a larger, whole load of clothing. Be careful with use as essential oils can sometimes trigger reactions such as skin irritation or allergies.
VII. Sunlight
Sunlight can be a natural way to remove strong odors from clothes. Hang the clothes outside for a better exposure of sunlight on both sides of the fabric. Sunlight helps you to eliminate musty or mildew smells in clothes. With the sun’s UV rays and fresh air, you can easily remove almost any smell.
However, it is recommended not to dry down jackets outside in the sun as it causes the filling of jacket fibers to clump.
VIII. Enzyme-based Cleaners
Enzyme-based cleaners are effective in removing tough odors like pet urine and smoke. These onzymes target organic matter and bacteria, causing the odor, and break them down, leaving clothes fresh and clean.
You can add enzyme-based cleaners to the washing cycle or directly to the affected area before washing. However, as with any cleaning product, it is essential to read instructions carefully and follow them precisely.
IX. Conclusion
Elimination of unwanted smell in clothes is possible using natural, cost-effective methods available in your home. A clean, fresh-smelling wardrobe is essential, and these methods are easy ways to ensure that your clothes always smell good. So, try these methods and leave a comment below if they work for you.
