Have you spent the evening around cigarette smoke, a warm campfire or a cigar bar? You’re probably trying to figure out how to get rid of those smoke odors from your clothes, a task that may seem impossible. Getting rid of smoke odors is also important, as third-hand smoke can be a health hazard.
With these tips from Pico Cleaners, you can return your clothes to their smoke-free state in no time. Keep in mind that the quicker you treat your clothes, the better your chances are of removing the odors. You may also have to repeat some steps multiple times before achieving the desired results.
Quick Tricks for Smoke Odors
If you are in a bind and need a quick solution on getting rid of smoke odors, one tip is to rub the clothing item with dryer sheets. You will have to properly wash the item later, but it should help for a bit.
If there aren’t any dryer sheets around, use an odor-eliminating spray, such as Febreeze. Better yet, make your own by mixing vinegar, water and some drops of your favorite essential oil (orange, lemon, lavender or eucalyptus) in a spray bottle.
No Washing Machine
If you have a bit more time on your hands and you don’t want to use the washing machine, there are a few ways to eliminate smoke odors. The first and easiest is to simply air the clothes out. Hang them in a well-ventilated area with a fan or plants or, better yet, outside in the fresh air. Leave the clothing for however long you think is appropriate. An extra step is to spray down the clothes with the odor-eliminating spray.
Another idea is to put the clothing item in a large plastic ziplock bag, shopping bag or trash bag; make sure it is big enough for the clothes to move around. Add ½ cup of baking soda or some dryer sheets, tie the bag and shake it a few times before letting it sit overnight. The next day, take the clothes outside and shake off or vacuum up the excess baking soda.
The third option is to slowly steam the clothing item with a 3:1 ratio of distilled water and rubbing alcohol. Be sure the clothes can be steamed before doing this.
With a Washing Machine
Before using a washing machine to eliminate smoke odors, consider two details. 1. You want to remove as much of the smoke odor as possible before using the washing machine to prevent the washer from smelling like smoke; use any of the above options. 2. Before washing, pour a cup of vinegar or baking soda in a sink or tub and fill it with warm water before soaking the clothes for 30 to 60 minutes to achieve the best results.
For the washing machine, add ½ cup of lemon juice, cheap vodka, rubbing alcohol, baking soda or white vinegar to the wash to help tackle those smoke odors. Wash the clothes as directed from the tag or hand wash delicate items with baking soda and soapy wash.
After washing the clothing item, be wary of using a dryer as high heat can cause the remaining odor molecules to bond with the clothing fibers. Use the dryer on low temperature to prevent this.
Pico Cleaners Eliminates Smoke Odors
If all else fails or you are hesitant about treating smoky clothes – or if your clothing item is dry clean only – stop by your favorite professional cleaners at Pico Cleaners. We will have your clothes cleaned and smelling great in no time.
