8 Innovative Ways to Remove Scents from Linens

Has your property ever had to remove scents from linens? A smell that never went away after washing and drying multiple times? There are a couple of reasons your linens might have gained a scent: moisture, warmth, lack of air circulation, dark and damp areas, or other reasons. It is a frustrating problem that many hospitality properties must deal with at least once. This blog lists eight unique ways to remove unwanted smells from your linens.

How to Remove Scents from Linens

1) Wash with Vinegar:

The natural acidity of vinegar added to the wash cycle can help neutralize odors and break down residual scents. Only one cup of white vinegar must be added to the washing machine during the rinse cycle. Vinegar contains a specific acid that makes bedding and other linens stiffer and fresher by breaking down any residues. Another possibility is to add one cup of vinegar to a tub or another container with cold water. From there, let your linens soak for around 30 minutes. Washing with vinegar will also help to remove any scents.

2) Baking Soda:

If the linens have a powerful odor, you can presoak them in cold water and baking soda. Add about half a cup of baking soda per gallon of water. Soak the linens for an hour or two before washing them, as usual, in the washer on a regular cycle.

Baking soda can also be used outside of the washer in its box. Keeping a baking soda box inside, wherever you store your linens, will also help reduce odors.

You can also use baking soda to minimize smell during your regular washing cycle. This will help keep your linens clean and smelling fresh.

3) Sun-Drying:

After washing the linens, hang them outside to dry in the sun. Sunlight has the surprising capability of natural deodorizing properties and can help to eliminate lingering smells. So, while letting the sun eliminate the bacteria and foul odors, you freshen up your linens. By airing out your linens, preferably outside, again, scents that may still be ingrained into the fabric will dissipate. Ideally, leave them to air out for around twelve to forty-eight hours, allowing more time for the scents to dissipate.

4) Lemon Juice:

Another way to remove scents from linens is to use lemon juice. Add a few drops of lemon juice to the rinse water for a fresh citrus scent. Besides using lemons for the smell, lemon juice has a natural antibacterial property that can help remove odor-causing bacteria.

5) Store in a Fresh Environment:

Some bad smells can be caused by being kept in dark or damp areas. So, ensuring the linens are secured in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area will keep the poor scents off your linens. Also, avoid storing them in a place with strong odors, such as a kitchen or near cleaning supplies. Also, wash your linens and sheets and let them dry before storing them. This procedure will also keep moisture out of the storage area.

6) Essential Oils:

If you prefer a specific scent, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a cloth and toss it with your linens where you store them. The linens will slowly gain the same scent due to their proximity. Some popular essential oils are lavender, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil.

One of Innstyle’s products, Fresh Wave, includes an all-natural solution for eliminating household odors.

7) Use Dried Aromatics:

Dried flowers and herbs are known for being super fragrant. Place them in the storage area where you will have the linens, and it will keep the sight fresh. By stashing a few of these dried aromatics throughout the room and between the linens, towels, and other fabrics, there will be a more natural scent instead of a different smell.

8) Regular Washing:

This one might seem redundant or obvious, but regularly laundering your linens can prevent scents from becoming deeply ingrained in the fabric. Also, after a regular wash, before drying, take a quick sniff of the material to see if there are any noticeable or lingering scents. If there is repeat washing, then let the dryer disperse the rest.

Ending Comments

One recommendation before using these tips is to check your washing machine first. Often, washing machines can cause the linens to gain a foul scent due to mold or other residue. Residue or additional accumulation can build up and create a perfect environment for bacteria and poor-smelling mold. Also, remember to check your linens’ care labels to ensure they are suitable for the above treatments. Delicate fabrics require different approaches, such as using gentle detergents or handwashing. Just be aware of the requirements for each linen and take the proper time to care for them. Doing so allows for an easier and more extended usage of the linen.

This is InnStyle 

InnStyle is here and readily available to help customers and hospitality owners find the best fit for their properties. InnStyle offers a wide selection of linens that can be procured on their website, or you can call in and talk to an employee to help get what you need. Some products include their Dream Quilt Coverlet, the Reversible Comforter Set, and the Basketweave Top Sheet. If you have any questions, please call InnStyle and speak with one of their account managers. They are always happy to help! InnStyle can be reached at 267-354-6020 or 800-877-4667. Their website is https://www.innstyle.com/.