How to Remove Odours from Clothes: A Step-by-Step Guide for Freshness

Body odour can linger in fabrics even after washing, as sweat and bacteria become trapped in the fibres. However, with the right approach, it is possible to eliminate these odours effectively. From specialised cleaning techniques to targeted solutions, several methods can help restore freshness to your clothes.

Here are some of the most effective ways to remove cloth odour:

1 - Washing with the Right Temperature

Hot water is great for killing bacteria and removing odours. If your clothes are smelly, wash them in the hottest water they can safely handle after checking the care labels. This can effectively break down sweat and other odour-causing agents, eventually removing odours from clothes. Just be cautious while using hot water on fabrics that might shrink or fade.

2 - Using a White Vinegar

If you're looking for what liquid removes smell from clothes, vinegar is a great natural option. It's well-known for its deodorising properties. Pouring a cup of white vinegar into the rinse cycle helps remove odours from clothes. It is an affordable and natural solution to make clothes smell fresh.

3 - Dry Clothes in the Sun

Sunlight is a powerful natural deodoriser and can help eliminate lingering odours. Hang your clothes outside for a few hours to let the sun's UV rays do the work. It's a great way to freshen up clothes that have been sitting in the wash for too long and remove odours from clothes naturally.

4 - How Do You Get Body Odour Out of Fabric Using Baking Soda?

Body odour is a common reason behind smelly clothes, especially after a workout. To effectively get rid of body odour, try soaking your clothes in a mixture of warm water and baking soda before washing them. This helps lift the body odour from the fabric.

5 - Use Essential Oils for a Fresh Scent

For a lovely scent, consider adding a few drops of your favourite oil to your laundry. Lavender, lemon, and eucalyptus are popular choices for fresh-smelling clothes. Add a few drops to a washcloth and toss it in the dryer, or add it to your wash cycle. These oils can also act as a natural fabric softener, leaving your clothes smelling amazing without harsh chemicals and removing odours from clothes.

6 - Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine

One common mistake when washing clothes is overloading the washing machine. When clothes are packed too tightly, there's not enough room for the water and detergent to properly clean and remove odours. Make sure to leave enough space in the drum for your clothes to move around freely. This ensures that they get thoroughly cleaned and odours are properly removed from clothes.

7 - Use a Steamer

If you don’t want to risk shrinking or fading your clothes with high heat, consider using a steamer to remove odours. The steam helps to refresh fabrics and neutralise odours without damaging the clothing fibres.

8 - Use Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is known for its ability to absorb odours. Place a few charcoal bags in your laundry hamper or closet to help prevent odours from developing in your clothes. It can also be added to your washing machine to help absorb any lingering smells during the wash.

9 - Store Clothes Properly

Sometimes, odours can build up in clothes if they are stored improperly. Make sure to store clean clothes in a well-ventilated area, and use fabric bags for long-term storage to prevent musty smells from developing.

10 - Use a Dryer Sheet or Fabric Softener

After washing your clothes, you can also use dryer sheets or fabric softeners as an extra step to fight odours. Just be sure to use them sparingly, as overusing can lead to a build-up of residue on fabrics.