New Delhi: As soon as the winter season arrives, people start taking out their sweaters, jackets, shawls and caps from the wardrobe. But sometimes these clothes get affected by dampness or bad smell due to being packed for a long time. This smell can cause discomfort in wearing and sometimes even cause headaches or allergies. Here are some simple and natural home remedies to make your clothes smell good again.
Drying clothes in the sun before wearing them is the simplest and most effective method. Leave your sweaters and jackets in mild sunlight for a day or two. The sun’s rays absorb moisture and kill bacteria, which are the main causes of odor. However, take care not to leave them in direct sunlight for too long, as this may cause the color of the clothes to fade.
If your winter clothes smell musty or moldy, white vinegar may help. Mix half a cup of white vinegar in a bucket of warm water and soak your clothes for 15-20 minutes. Then wash them with mild detergent and dry them. Vinegar helps neutralize odors and provide freshness to your clothes without damaging them.
To add scent to clothes that have been stored for longer periods of time, make a DIY fabric spray. Mix one cup of water, two tablespoons of lemon juice and a capful of rose water in a spray bottle. Spray lightly on woolen clothing such as sweaters or scarves. This natural blend eliminates odors and provides a light, refreshing scent.
Store-bought fabric fresheners can damage wool fibers. Instead, use natural oils like tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil. Add a few drops to water and sprinkle lightly or apply some on a cotton ball and keep it near your clothes. These oils act as natural deodorants and keep insects away.
Sometimes the washing machine also smells. Once a month, run an empty wash cycle with hot water, vinegar and baking soda. This helps remove fungus and ensures that your washed clothes come out clean and odor-free.
