Essential Oils
How To Get Essential Oil Smell Out Of Clothes
Jul
Stepping out in clothes boasting a lingering smell of last week's lavender essential oil can be quite off-putting. While therapeutic and pleasant, essential oils can sometimes cling stubbornly to your wardrobe, causing unexpected olfactory surprises.
This article will guide you through practical methods to extract those persistent essential oil smells from your fabrics, restoring freshness without damaging the material. Ready for an aroma-free wardrobe? Let us dive right in!
Key Takeaways
- Essential oils can stain and potentially ruin clothes if not treated properly, especially darker oils on lighter fabrics.
- Pre-treatment methods such as dish soap, Murphy's oil soap, baking soda, baby powder, eucalyptus oil, or rubbing alcohol can effectively remove essential oil stains from clothes.
- To eliminate essential oil odor from clothes, try using a combination of white vinegar and baking soda or washing them with scented detergent. Using mesh laundry bags and seeking professional dry cleaning are additional options.
- Natural remedies like applying baking soda or baby powder before washing, soaking clothes in a vinegar solution, or hanging them outside to air out can also help remove essential oil smells.
Related Links
How To Get Essential Oil of Skin in Less Than 5 Minutes
Discover the Best Essential Oil to Get Rid of Musty Smell - You Won't Believe How Fast It Works!
The Sweet Smell of Smooth Skin: The 8 Best Essential Oils for Sugar Scrubs
The Impact Of Essential Oils On Clothes
Essential oils have the potential to stain and ruin clothes if not treated properly.
Do Essential Oils Stain Clothes?
Essential oils exhibit rich, vibrant colors that are a testament to their plant origin. However, this beautiful characteristic can sometimes leave your clothing with unintended stains. Darkly colored or highly pigmented essential oils like patchouli and vetiver are more likely to stain fabric, especially lighter materials.
On the other hand, essential oils with paler hues, such as lavender or lemongrass, tend to be safer choices when it comes to preserving the integrity of your clothes' appearance. It's also noteworthy that synthetic fabrics have a higher susceptibility to oil staining than natural ones due to their unique fiber composition.
Therefore, while these aromatic compounds are incredibly beneficial for aromatherapy use and adding pleasant scents to laundry loads, mindful usage is very much required in order not just to preserve color but avoid potential fire risks since these oils can be flammable.
Can Essential Oils Ruin Clothes?
Essential oils, while therapeutic and aromatic, can potentially pose a threat to your beloved clothing articles. Oils with vivid colors, such as patchouli or certain citrus blends, may leave noticeable stains on fabrics.
The impact of these oils is generally more pronounced on lighter materials where the darker stain contrasts sharply.
Notably, pure essential oils do not cause oily spots but can alter the color of your clothes due to their naturally occurring shades. Lavender oil and other light-hued options are less likely to create visible discoloration compared to their darker counterparts.
However, even if you choose lighter oils for use around your clothes, be sure to exercise caution when adding essential oils to dryer balls or dryer sheets, as they are inherently flammable and thus risk causing a fire.
Pre-Treatment Methods To Remove Essential Oil Stains
To remove essential oil stains from clothes, you can use pre-treatment methods such as dish soap, Murphy's oil soap, baking soda, baby powder, eucalyptus oil, or rubbing alcohol.
Dish Soap
Dish soap is a potent pre-treatment method for removing essential oil stains from your clothes. This common household item, particularly those specifically formulated to remove grease, effectively breaks down the oil particles clinging to fibers in your clothing.
Turn the garment inside out for maximum results and apply dish soap directly to the stained area. Gently dab with a soft cloth or sponge instead of rubbing it in, as this can spread the stain further.
Allow it to sit before rinsing it off with cold water and laundering it as usual. Notably, using dish soap ensures that you preserve your fabric's color and integrity while successfully discarding undesired scents and stains left by essential oils.
Murphy's Oil Soap
Murphy's Oil Soap has gained a reputation for its remarkable effectiveness in cleaning wood floors, but did you know that it can also work wonders as a clothing stain remover? This versatile soap is not just reserved for your hardwood surfaces; it can also help eliminate stubborn stains on your clothes.
Whether you're dealing with an oil stain or trying to get rid of the lingering smell of essential oils, Murphy's Oil Soap is one of the recommended products that can come to your rescue. Its powerful formula tackles tough stains and odors, leaving your clothes fresh and clean.
So next time you encounter an essential oil mishap on your favorite outfit, try Murphy’s Oil Soap – you won't be disappointed!
Baking Soda
Baking soda is an essential item to have on hand when it comes to removing essential oil stains and smells from your clothes. This versatile ingredient acts as a natural deodorizer and odor absorber, making it highly effective in getting rid of unwanted scents.
When used as a pre-treatment method for oil stains, baking soda can help absorb the oils and lift them away from the fabric fibers. It can also be added to your regular laundry cycle to neutralize any lingering odors.
Baking soda's ability to tackle both stains and smells makes it a must-have solution for keeping your clothes fresh and clean.
Baby Powder
One effective pre-treatment method to remove oil stains from clothes is using baby powder. Baby powder, which typically contains talcum powder or cornstarch, can help absorb the oil and prevent it from setting into the fabric.
Simply sprinkle a generous amount of baby powder onto the stain, gently rub it in, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the powder to absorb the oil. Then, brush off any excess powder and launder your clothes as usual.
This simple trick can be particularly useful for removing essential oil stains from your favorite garments without damaging them. Additionally, baby powder has been known to be effective in absorbing gasoline smells on hands and clothing as well.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is a powerful essential oil that offers numerous benefits when it comes to removing stains and odors from clothes. Its antibacterial properties, thanks to compounds like eucamalol and limonene, make it an excellent natural option for tackling tough essential oil stains.
Additionally, eucalyptus essential oil can be used as a pre-treatment method before washing your clothes to effectively remove stubborn oils. It's useful for stain removal and has been found effective in controlling house dust mites and their allergens in clothing and bedding.
So, if you're looking for an all-natural solution to keep your clothes fresh and free from essential oil residue, definitely consider using eucalyptus oil.
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, is an excellent solution for removing essential oil stains from clothes and eliminating their lingering smell. It is a versatile household item that can be easily found in most households or purchased from chemists.
Rubbing alcohol works effectively by breaking down the oils in the stain and evaporating quickly, leaving no residue behind. To use rubbing alcohol for stain removal, simply dab it onto a clean cloth or cotton ball and gently blot the affected area.
Remember to always follow the necessary pre-treatment methods mentioned earlier in this article to ensure optimal results. With rubbing alcohol as your ally, you can say goodbye to stubborn essential oil stains and hello to fresh-smelling clothes once again!
Methods To Eliminate Essential Oil Odor From Clothes
To eliminate essential oil odor from clothes, try using a combination of white vinegar and baking soda or washing them with scented detergent. Use mesh laundry bags for extra protection and consider professional dry cleaning if needed.
White Vinegar And Baking Soda
White vinegar and baking soda are powerful ingredients that effectively eliminate essential oil odor from clothes. Vinegar acts as a natural deodorizer while baking soda helps to absorb and neutralize odors.
To use them, simply add half a cup of white vinegar along with your regular detergent to the washing machine when washing your oil-scented clothes. Then, sprinkle one tablespoon of baking soda directly onto the affected areas before starting the wash cycle.
The combination of these two ingredients will help break down and remove the lingering scent of essential oils from your clothes, leaving them fresh and odor-free.
Washing With Scented Detergent
Enhance your laundry experience by washing your clothes with scented detergent infused with essential oils. Adding 20-30 drops of your favorite essential oil to a bottle of unscented liquid detergent can create a personalized fragrance that lingers on your clothes long after they're out of the wash.
Not only does this method leave your laundry smelling amazing, but it also offers the added benefits of aromatherapy. The natural properties in essential oils can uplift your mood and promote relaxation, turning every load of laundry into a soothing sensory experience.
So why settle for ordinary detergent when you can indulge in the delightful scent of essential oils while getting perfectly clean and fresh clothing? Try it today and discover a new level of luxury in your laundry routine.
Using Mesh Laundry Bags
Mesh laundry bags are a handy tool when it comes to removing essential oil odor from clothes. By placing your oil-infused garments in a mesh bag before tossing them in the washing machine, you can prevent the fragrance from transferring onto other items of clothing.
The mesh material allows water and detergent to circulate freely, ensuring a thorough clean while keeping the scent contained. This simple step is especially useful for Aromatherapy Enthusiasts who regularly use essential oils in their laundry routine.
So, next time you want to eliminate that lingering scent, don't forget to reach for a trusty mesh laundry bag!
Seeking Professional Dry Cleaning
Professional dry cleaning can be a great option for removing essential oil smells from your clothes, especially if they are labeled as "dry clean only." Dry cleaners have specialized equipment and techniques to effectively eliminate odors and restore freshness to your garments.
While regular washing machines may not always completely remove stubborn essential oil smells, professional dry cleaning can provide a more thorough solution. It's important to note that the smell of dry cleaning chemicals, like perc, may be irritating to sensitive noses but evaporates quickly.
So, when you're looking for a reliable way to freshen up your clothes without compromising their quality, seeking professional dry cleaning is worth considering.
Natural Remedies To Remove Essential Oil Smell
To naturally remove essential oil smells from clothes, you can try applying baking soda or baby powder before washing them, soaking the clothes in a vinegar solution, or hanging them outside to air out.
Applying Baking Soda Or Baby Powder
Another effective way to remove essential oil smell from clothes is by applying baking soda or baby powder. These natural remedies work wonders in neutralizing odors, including those caused by essential oils.
Simply sprinkle a generous amount of either baking soda or baby powder onto the affected area and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before washing as usual. Baking soda can also be added directly into your laundry detergent to boost its odor-eliminating power.
Also, if you have smelly shoes, sprinkling baking soda inside overnight can help counteract any foul odors. So next time you're dealing with stubborn essential oil smells on your clothes, reach for the trusty box of baking soda or baby powder for a simple and effective solution.
Soaking Clothes In A Vinegar Solution
Soaking clothes in a vinegar solution effectively removes essential oil smells from your favorite garments. Simply mix vinegar and water in a 1:4 ratio to create the solution.
Afterward, let your clothes soak in this mixture for about half an hour to allow the vinegar to penetrate and eliminate stubborn odors. Once the soaking is complete, wash your clothes as you normally would to completely get rid of any lingering smell.
Vinegar can also be combined with essential oils to tackle musty smells in clothing, providing a natural and refreshing alternative. Give this simple yet powerful technique a try to enjoy odor-free clothes once again!
Hanging Clothes Outside To Air Out
One effective way to remove the smell of essential oils from your clothes is by hanging them outside to air out. This simple method allows fresh air and natural ventilation to work their magic in eliminating unwanted odors.
Not only does this technique help remove the strong scent of essential oils, but it also helps revive your garments with a refreshing outdoor aroma. It's important to note that hanging your clothes outside can be particularly helpful for items made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
So next time you're dealing with lingering oil smells in your favorite outfit, give nature a chance and let the breeze do its job!
Fresh air is known for its ability to eliminate foul odors, including those caused by essential oils. By hanging your clothes outside, you allow them to be exposed to this natural deodorizer, which can significantly reduce any residual aromas left behind from using essential oils on your garments.
Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil has several health benefits including: supporting the immune system, alleviating stress and reducing insomnia.
Vivorific’s peppermint essential oil is: 100% Pure and natural, free from fillers, additives and harmful chemicals, vegan and kosher certified and sealed with tamper evident closure and Euro style dropper cap.
Additional Tips For Removing Essential Oil Smell From Clothes
Wash aprons and work clothes separately to prevent the spread of essential oil smell.
Washing Aprons And Work Clothes Separately
To effectively remove the lingering scent of essential oils from your clothes, washing aprons and work clothes separately is important. This ensures that any leftover oil residue or strong odors won't transfer onto other garments during washing.
By isolating these items, you can give them a thorough cleaning without worrying about contaminating your everyday clothing. So whether it's an apron stained with lavender oil or work clothes infused with eucalyptus scent, separating and washing them separately will help eliminate the stubborn essential oil smell for good.
Hand-washing Delicate Fabrics
Hand-washing is the way to go for those cherished delicate fabrics that require a little extra TLC. These fabrics can be easily damaged by the agitation of a washing machine, making it essential to handle them with care.
When hand-washing delicate fabrics, remember to use gentle movements and avoid any scrubbing or twisting actions that could potentially harm the fabric. Instead, softly agitate the clothing in a soapy solution using your hands.
This method ensures that your favorite aromatherapy-infused garments retain their beauty while effectively removing any lingering essential oil smells.
Using Pillowcases Or Pinning Apron Strings
Consider using pillowcases or pinning apron strings to prevent the strong smell of essential oils from lingering on your clothes. This simple trick can help trap the scent and prevent it from spreading to other items in your laundry load.
You create a barrier that keeps the scent contained by enclosing clothes in a pillowcase or securing aprons with pins. This method is especially useful for more delicate fabrics or prone to absorbing odors.
Give it a try next time you wash your aromatherapy attire to keep them smelling fresh and free from any lingering essential oil scents!
Wash Clothes With Similar Smells Together
To ensure that your freshly washed clothes continue to exude the delightful scent of essential oils, it's important to wash items with similar smells together. This means grouping clothing and fabrics that have been infused with the same type of scents.
Lavender-scented garments, for example, should be laundered separately from those infused with eucalyptus or peppermint oil fragrances. Doing so'll enhance the overall aroma and prevent conflicting scents from overpowering each other.
So remember, when tackling your laundry routine, keep your essential-oil scented clothes in harmony by washing them together based on their shared fragrance profiles.
Recommended Essential Oil Stain Removers
The Laundress Essential Oil Remover and Puracy Natural Laundry Stain Remover are highly recommended options for effectively removing essential oil stains from clothes.
The Laundress Essential Oil Remover
The Laundress Essential Oil Remover is a must-have for aromatherapy enthusiasts who want to keep their clothes fresh and clean. This luxury product, recommended by experts in the field, effectively eliminates stubborn essential oil stains from fabrics without causing any damage.
Made with Lemon essential oil and Thieves® Laundry soap, it easily tackles even the toughest oil stains. The Laundress prides itself on providing plant-derived laundry products that remove stains and preserve clothing's quality.
With their commitment to using premium ingredients and creating innovative solutions, The Laundress has become a trusted name in fabric care for Aromatherapy Enthusiasts.
Puracy Natural Laundry Stain Remover
Puracy Natural Laundry Stain Remover is a highly recommended product for removing stubborn stains left behind by essential oils. Made with plant-based ingredients and free from harsh chemicals, this stain remover is effective and safe for your clothes and the environment.
Its powerful formula tackles oil stains and other tough marks, leaving your garments fresh and clean. A favorite among aromatherapy enthusiasts, Puracy Natural Laundry Stain Remover, offers a reliable solution to rid your clothes of those pesky oil stains.
So say goodbye to stubborn smudges and hello to bright, odor-free clothing!
Conclusion
In conclusion, removing the lingering scent of essential oils from clothes can be a simple task with the right techniques. By using natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar, or opting for specialized stain removers, you can say goodbye to those stubborn odors.
Remember to follow the pre-treatment methods for oil stains first before tackling the smell. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your favorite aromatherapy scents without worrying about them clinging to your clothes!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get the smell out of clothes using essential oils?
To get the smell out of clothes using essential oils, you can mix a few drops of your preferred essential oil into a spray bottle filled with water and then spray onto your clothes.
What is the best way to get essential oil out of clothes?
The best way to get essential oil out of clothes is to mix a few drops of liquid dish soap and a few drops of vinegar into a gallon of warm water, and then soak your clothes in the mixture before washing them in the washing machine.
How can I remove oil smell out of clothes?
One way to remove oil smell out of clothes is to sprinkle baking soda onto your clothes, leave it for a few minutes, and then wash them in the washing machine.
How can I get oil out of clothes?
To get oil out of clothes, you can use an old toothbrush to apply a mixture of liquid dish soap and water onto the stained area, let it sit for a few minutes and then wash the clothes in the washing machine.
What should I do if my clothes smell musty?
If your clothes smell musty, you can add a few drops of your preferred essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water and then spray onto your clothes before washing them in the washing machine.
Can essential oils stain clothes?
Yes, essential oils can stain clothes. It is best to dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them onto your clothes to prevent staining.
How can I remove essential oil stains from clothing?
To remove essential oil stains from clothing, you can mix a few drops of lemon essential oil with a tablespoon of baking soda, apply onto the stained area, let it sit for a few hours, and then wash the clothing in the washing machine.
Is it safe to use essential oils in my washing machine?
Yes, it is safe to use essential oils in your washing machine as long as they are properly diluted and you follow the manufacturer's instructions for your washing machine.
How can I easily remove excess oil from clothes?
To easily remove excess oil from clothes, you can blot the area with a cloth or paper towel to absorb as much of the oil as possible before applying any cleaning solution.
Is it possible to encourage the spread of essential oils in my clothes?
Yes, you can encourage the spread of essential oils in your clothes by using a diffuser or spraying a mixture of water and essential oils onto your clothes before wearing them.
Sources
- How to Use Science-Backed Ways to Get Any Smell Out of Your Clothes. (n.d.). How to Use Science-Backed Ways to Get Any Smell Out of Your Clothes. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-smell-out-of-clothes
Grand, A. (2022, April 25). How To Get Essential Oil Out of Clothes - Roots of Being. Roots of Being. https://www.rootsofbeing.com/how-to-get-essential-oil-out-of-clothes/
Things to Know About Rubbing Alcohol. (2022, November 30). WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/ss/rubbing-alcohol-uses
You May Also Like
