How to Get Smoke Out of Clothes
Gathering around a campfire or fire pit is one of life’s simple joys, but the smoky smell it leaves behind? Not so much. That lingering odor can feel impossible to get rid of, especially if it sticks around after washing. Don’t worry—these simple tricks will help banish campfire smells from your clothes for good!
Let Hot Water Do the Work
Hot water is your best friend when it comes to tackling odors. The heat helps open up the fibers in your clothing, releasing the trapped smoky smell. You can soak your clothes in hot water for about 30 minutes before tossing them in the wash, or simply set your washing machine to a hot cycle. Just make sure to check the care labels on your clothes first—hot water isn’t friendly to every fabric.
Don’t Delay the Wash
Procrastination is your enemy here. The longer smoky clothes sit in a pile, the more the smell seeps into the fibers. Toss those clothes into the washer as soon as you can, to stop the smell from setting. If washing immediately isn’t an option, store the smoky garments in an airtight bag or container. This will keep the odor from spreading to other clothes and make cleaning easier later.
Use Vinegar to Knock Out the Smell
Vinegar isn’t just for salads—it’s a miracle worker for odors too! Adding a cup of white vinegar to your washing machine along with your regular detergent can make a world of difference. The acidic nature of vinegar helps break down the smoky particles clinging to your clothes. Bonus? Vinegar can even double as a fabric softener, leaving your laundry feeling fresh and clean.
See also: How to Build a Fire Without All the Smoke
Bring in the Baking Soda
Baking soda is like a superhero for laundry. Not only does it brighten colors and whiten whites, but it’s also a champ at absorbing stubborn odors. For heavy-duty campfire smells, soak your clothes overnight in a baking soda solution. Mix two cups of baking soda with two gallons of water, and let your clothes sit in the mixture before washing. Alternatively, you can sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the washer along with your detergent and let it work its magic.
Try Bio-Enzymatic Treatments
Bio-enzymatic cleaners might sound fancy, but they’re a lifesaver for stubborn smells. These products contain proteins that break down the particles causing odors, leaving your clothes looking and smelling fresh. You can find bio-enzymatic treatments at most stores, and they’re safe to use on washable fabrics. Just follow the instructions on the label, and you’ll be good to go.
Let the Sun Help
Sunlight is nature’s deodorizer. After washing, hang your clothes outside in direct sunlight to dry. The UV rays and fresh air work together to remove any remaining odors. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly way to dry your laundry. This trick is especially handy for delicate fabrics that can’t handle a tumble in the dryer.
Use the Dryer Wisely
If hanging clothes outside isn’t an option, use your dryer on the lowest heat setting. High heat can sometimes lock in odors, so keeping the temperature low is key. For an extra touch of freshness, toss in a dryer sheet or add some essential oils to a reusable dryer ball. Just make sure to remove the clothes as soon as they’re dry to prevent any lingering smells from settling back in.
(Quick tip: If you want less smoke in the first place, you should consider using a rocket stove to do any cooking outdoors!)
Can Smoke Permanently Affect Clothes?
Repeated exposure to campfire smoke without proper cleaning can damage your clothes. The particles from the smoke can embed themselves deep into the fabric, making it nearly impossible to remove the smell over time. For instance, if you have a favorite jacket you always wear to campfires but rarely wash, the smoky scent can eventually become permanent.
How Long Can the Smell Last?
Without proper care, campfire odors can cling to clothes for months. If you toss smoky clothes into a closet without washing them, the smell can stay trapped indefinitely. But with a little effort, you can kick the odor out for good.
Love the Fire, Skip the Smoke
Not everyone loves the smell of a campfire. If you want to cook outdoors but want to avoid the smoky aftermath, a rocket stove is a fantastic alternative.
Say goodbye to smoky clothes and hello to fresh laundry. With these tips, you can enjoy the magic of a campfire without the hassle of lingering odors. Here’s to cozy nights and clean clothes!