How to Remove Tough Odors From Clothes

Tips to Get Strong Odors Out of Clothes                                         

Sometimes, strong odors can cling to clothes. Removing odors from clothes can be a challenge when their smell is overpowering. Perfumes, sweat, gasoline, and musty smells are some of the worst offenders for foul-smelling clothing. To help you revive your clothing, check out these tips from your Chula Vista laundromat!

Perfume

Strong perfume smells on clothing can cause excessive sneezing and a myriad of other health problems. The first thing to do is to determine if the perfumed garment is washable by checking the care label. If it is, fill a large sink or bucket with cool water. Dissolve 1 cup of baking soda in four cups of hot water and then add the solution to the cool water. Submerge the garment and soak for at least four hours. Once the odor has gone, dry as directed by the care label.

Sweat

Laundry detergent doesn’t always work to remove the smell of sweat completely from clothing. Try soaking the clothes in a baking soda and water solution. This pre-soak will allow help to eliminate the smell. Allow your clothes to soak overnight and then wash as usual!

Gasoline

Fuel is an oil-based stain that should be pre-treated using a solvent-based stain removal product. If you don’t have a solvent-based pre-treatment, apply a heavy-duty liquid detergent to the stain and work it in by gently rubbing. Allow this to sit for at least 15 minutes before washing it in the machine. Wash the garment in the hottest water appropriate for the fabric. If the garment still has a fuel smell after washing, repeat the treatment before drying it.

Must

Musty and mothball odors can be difficult to remove. For washable clothes, add 1 cup of baking soda to the wash cycle along with detergent. Mix well and allow the clothing to soak for at least 1 hour before completing the wash. Add ½ cup distilled white vinegar to the final rinse. Hang freshly washed clothes outside to dry. Fresh air is perhaps the best refresher of all.

Now that you know how to remove tough odors from clothes, give us a call to learn more about our services at our Chula Vista location. As your friendly and efficient laundry team in California, we hope to see you soon!