Blanket Smell Removal Tips: As soon as winter begins, blankets, quilts and quilts come out. These become our biggest needs in winter, but many times as soon as we take out the blanket from the cupboard, a strange, stale or sweaty smell starts coming from it. Some people ignore this smell and start using the same blanket, but this can disturb sleep, cause headache and also spreads bad smell in the room. Especially children, seniors and people with allergies face more problems. This happens because moisture, dust, bacteria and sweat particles accumulate in the blanket that has been closed for several months. If the blanket is not exposed to sunlight, cleaned or stored properly, the smell becomes stronger. At present, people are discussing a lot on social media about ways to remove the smell of blankets.
People are looking for easy, chemical-free and quick working solutions. The good thing is that there is no need for expensive products to remove the smell from the blanket. There are many such items available in the kitchen of your house which can make the blanket fresh, clean and fragrant again. Today we are telling you those easy solutions by adopting which you can make the blankets look like new in the cold.
1. Sunshine is the best and natural way
The easiest cure for blanket odor is sunlight. Spread the blanket in open sunlight for 2 to 3 hours. The heat of the sun destroys bacteria, fungus and moisture. Due to this the bad smell goes away automatically. Try to turn the blanket upside down so that sunlight gets from both the sides. If there is less sunlight, then hang it in an open air place, on the balcony or terrace.
2. Baking soda will eliminate odor
If the smell is very strong then baking soda is best. Sprinkle a little baking soda on the blanket and leave it for 30 to 40 minutes. It absorbs odors. Later clean the blanket with a light brush or dust it in the balcony. If you want, you can also machine wash. This method is especially good for wool blankets.
3. Vinegar will provide deep cleaning and freshness
Vinegar is considered a natural deodorizer. If you are washing the blanket in a machine, add half a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle. This removes odor, sweat stains and bacteria. The blanket becomes soft and fresh smelling. Just be careful not to use vinegar with chlorine bleach.
4. Use hot water and mild detergent
If the blanket is washable then wash it with hot water, mild liquid detergent and a little vinegar. Hot water loosens moisture and dirt quickly. After washing, allow the blanket to dry thoroughly, otherwise the smell may reappear. Do not put woolen blankets in hot water, cold water is better for them.
5. Essential oil will give light fragrance
If you want the blanket to have a slight pleasant scent, then make a spray by adding 2-3 drops of lavender, lemon or tea tree essential oil to dryer balls or water. Sprinkle lightly on the blanket and let it dry in the sun. This will remove the smell and also add fragrance.
6. The biggest mistake is not allowing the blanket to air.
Many people fold the blanket even after washing it without drying it completely. Due to this, moisture stops inside and bad smell starts. Always fold the blanket only when it is 100 percent dry. If there is less sunlight in the weather, then use fan, dryer or mild heat of the room.
7. Keep it in the cupboard in such a way that it does not smell bad.
Never use plastic bags, airtight boxes or wet trunks to store blankets. Due to this the moisture gets trapped. Store in a cotton bag, muslin cloth or blanket cover. You can also keep camphor cakes, neem leaves or scented sachets in the cupboard. It keeps away moisture and insects.
8. Care for frequently used blankets
For blankets that are used daily, expose them to sunlight once a week. This reduces dust, sweat and microbes. Light washing can also be done once a month. This will keep the blanket always fresh and clean.
What causes bad smell?
- closed and damp cupboard
- go without sunlight for several months
- sweat and body oil
- dust and bacteria
- fold wet blanket
- If these habits are improved then the chances of bad smell are reduced significantly.
When should professional cleaning be done?
If fungus is visible in the blanket, the smell is excessive or there are symptoms of allergy, then it is better to get it dry cleaned. Professional cleaning is especially appropriate for wool, silk or heavy blankets.
