Why do people want to know how to get rid of fabric softener smell ? Well, fabric softener is great for laundry clothing and cycles, but it can be too much. Some people find the smell too annoying, and some dislike their laundry having such a smell. So, if you are one of those people disliking the softener smell, what can you do?
How to Get Rid of Fabric Softener Smell
Understanding Fabric Softener
As the name suggests, fabric softener is a substance to ‘soften’ the fabric. It’s usually a substance that is added to the laundry (or household fabric) to make them softer and make them more resistant to wrinkles. In most cases, clothes with fabric softener won’t wrinkle easily. Such a softener also comes with different scents. The idea is to make the clothes smell nice. However, not everyone loves the scent. Not to mention that some of the products may contain too much scent. In the end, you may end up with clothes with a ‘very sweet smell’. This isn’t always a good thing. That’s why you should learn how to get rid of fabric softener smell.
White Vinegar
Do you know that you can use white vinegar in the washing machine? It’s one of the best methods how to get rid of fabric softener smell. This is pretty safe, but you can also add vinegar to your laundry load. It would be best if you remembered that vinegar had been used as a natural (and household) cleaning remedy that can deal with stain removal and carpet cleaning. If you dislike the smell of the (fabric) softener, it’s also a possible solution.
Just add one cup (of white vinegar) to the washing machine. Soak your clothes for around 30 minutes. More is fine. But don’t forget to put your clothes through extra rinsing cycle so the vinegar would come out. After all, you don’t want your clothes to smell like vinegar now. In the event your clothes still smell of the softener, repeat this particular process again.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is another natural household ingredient you can use to remove the funky smell from the clothes. The process may be longer than vinegar, but it still works, and the ingredient is still natural.
Fill up your washing machine with warm water. Submerge the clothes in that warm water. Add a cup of baking soda, and then let it soak for several hours. It’s also okay to soak it overnight or even more than one day. How long you soak the clothes depend on the smell and how severe it is. No need to worry; baking soda is completely safe from stains, smells, or excessive moisture.
Don’t forget to have extra rinsing cycles so your clothes won’t have any remaining residue. The clothes shouldn’t have any remaining smell if you do it right. It will somewhat smell neutral. But if you notice any lingering smell, you may want to repeat the process or try another solution.
Laundry Detergent
For some people, using laundry detergent is one way how to get rid of fabric softener smell naturally. You can use these detergents to remove the heavy perfume from the softener. Use hot water, detergents, and an extra rinsing cycle to remove the smell. For some people, this method is enough to remove the smell of the softener. However, some people find adding baking soda or white vinegar to solve the issue more helpful.
Extra Hot Water
Use this feature if your washing machine has one. Use the hot water to remove the smell of the softener. First, let the laundry soak up for about 30 minutes. It’s also possible to have extra rinsing with hot water. However, you should know that hot water isn’t always suitable for all kinds of dyes or clothes. If the fabric isn’t designed for hot water, you may damage the clothes. That’s why it’s crucial to check the advisable washing setting for each piece of clothing before using this method. Don’t forget that hot water may cause the dyes to bleed, and you have damaged (or unattractive) clothing. That’s why it’s better to group your clothes, dividing them into specific colour categories before washing them off.
(Hang) Dry the Clothes
Drying the clothes under the sun is always better. The smell of the sun and the freshness afterwards are things that most people like. Letting the clothes air-dry under the sun and in the fresh air can help remove the lingering scent. However, the fresh air isn’t a magical solution. It would work like a charm if you could combine it with vinegar or baking (used for the soaking). Instead of using the dryer, why not try hanging the clothes outdoor? You will appreciate the freshness afterwards. Not to mention that any lingering smell will go away.
Less Softener
If you are adamant about using the softener, consider using less softener. Even when you have used the recommended amount, consider using even more minor. Another possible solution is to choose a scent-free softener, and it’s also possible to find softeners without dyes.
FAQ
Q: Is it safe to add vinegar to the laundry?
A: The key is about the proportion. As long as you only use the proper amount of vinegar, you should be okay. Too much vinegar, however, can make your clothes smell like vinegar or ‘acidic’. That’s why it’s advisable only to use a cup
Q: Should I use fabric softener or not?
A: It depends on your personal preferences. Some people feel the need to have the softener while others don’t. There’s nothing right or wrong when it comes to using the softener.
Q: What can I do to make my laundry smell nice without the softener?
A: You can add natural substances, like vinegar or baking soda.
Q: Is the outdoor air helpful?
A: Yes, it can be helpful. That’s why hanging it to dry or wearing the clothes outdoor can help.
Now that you know some of the alternative how to get rid of fabric softener smell, you can choose the suitable method that suits your preferences or lifestyle.
