As a busy mom, you know how important it is to keep your family’s clothes smelling fresh and clean. However, sometimes the use of Febreze can leave a lingering scent that you just can’t seem to get rid of.
Luckily, there are several methods that you can use to remove the Febreze smell from your clothes. You can casually air-dry, use mild detergent, or soak in vinegar and baking soda.
In this article, we will discuss the most effective ways to get Febreze out of clothes, so you can keep your family smelling fresh and clean.
Background
Febreze is a popular fabric freshener that is designed to eliminate odors from clothes and other fabrics. While it is effective at removing odors, it can sometimes leave a strong scent behind.
This scent can be difficult to remove, especially if it has been embedded in the fabric for a long time. However, with the right techniques, you can remove the Febreze smell from your clothes and keep them smelling fresh and clean.
Best Practices for Removing Febreze Stains
Prompt Action
Acting quickly is crucial when dealing with Febreze stains on your clothes. As soon as you notice a stain, treat it immediately to increase the chances of successful removal.
Blot any excess Febreze with a paper towel or a clean cloth to prevent it from spreading to other areas of the fabric.
Air Drying the Clothes
Instead of placing your clothes in the dryer, air dry them after rinsing. This helps prevent heat from setting the stain, making it more difficult to remove later.
Lay your clothes flat or hang them up to air dry, allowing the stain to gradually dissipate on its own.
Water and Mild Detergent
Rinse the stained area with cold water to remove some of the Febreze residues. Then, pre-soak the garment in a solution of water and a mild detergent before washing. This helps loosen the stain and allows the washing process to be more effective.
Agitate the clothes gently while soaking to help break up the stain, and soak them for at least 30 minutes.
Use Vinegar & Baking Soda
Another great way to remove Febreze from clothing is by using vinegar and baking soda. Start by pouring white vinegar onto the stained area until it’s completely saturated. Allow this for about 15 minutes before rinsing off with cold water.
Next, sprinkle baking soda over the shaded area and let it sit for another 15 minutes before brushing off any remaining residue with a cloth or soft-bristled brush. Finally, rinse everything off with cold water once again.
Soak Your Clothes in Calgon and Vinegar
One of the most effective ways to remove the Febreze smell from your clothes is to soak them in a mixture of Calgon and vinegar.
Start by filling a bucket with hot water and adding a cup of Calgon. Then, add a cup of vinegar to the mixture and stir well.
Soak your clothes in the mixture for a few minutes, then wash them in the washing machine as usual. Hang your clothes to dry in a well-ventilated area, and the Febreze smell should be gone.
Wash Your Clothes in Hot Water with Enzyme Detergent
Another effective way to remove the Febreze smell from your clothes is to wash them in hot water with an enzyme detergent. Enzymes help break down and remove chemical residues, while hot water helps vaporize organic compounds and release odors.
Simply add the enzyme detergent to your washing machine and wash your clothes in hot water. This should remove the Febreze smell and leave your clothes smelling fresh and clean.
Tips
- It is important to follow the instructions on the fabric freshener’s label or packaging when using Febreze. This will ensure that you are using it correctly and will help reduce the chances of leaving a residue on your clothes.
- Be sure to check the type of fabric you are spraying and read any warning labels before using Febreze. Some fabrics may be more susceptible to damage from the product and should be treated with care.
- If you are still unable to remove the Febreze smell from your clothes, consider having them professionally cleaned. Professional cleaners will have the necessary equipment and cleaning solutions to effectively remove any stubborn odors.
FAQs
Can I Make Homemade Febreze?
Yes, you can make homemade Febreze using a few simple ingredients. One recipe involves combining equal parts water and alcohol in a spray bottle, then adding a few drops of essential oil for fragrance.
Another recipe involves whisking baking soda and essential oil together, then adding distilled water to a spray bottle. Both of these recipes can be effective at removing odors from fabrics.
Is Vinegar safe to use on all fabrics?
While vinegar is generally safe to use on most fabrics, it is always recommended to test a small, inconspicuous area first before using it on the entire garment.
Some fabrics may be more delicate and could be damaged by the acidity of the vinegar. It is also important to note that vinegar should not be used on silk or acetate fabrics, as it can cause discoloration and damage.
How often should I clean my clothes if using Febreze regularly?
It is recommended to launder clothes regularly when using Febreze products, as most tend to accumulate over time and form a greasy film when used excessively.
Depending on how often you use it and how heavily soiled your garments are, laundering every two weeks should be sufficient for removing odors and keeping your clothes smelling fresh without any buildup of residue over time.