Research has shown that the primary cause of musty odors on clothes is bacteria, specifically Moraxella bacteria, which produce unpleasant odors when clothes are not properly cleaned, dried under inadequate sunlight and wind conditions, and exposed to rainy and humid weather.
Although there are several methods to deodorize clothes such as using a dryer or deodorizer, expensive devices may not always be available. In such cases, the following tips can help deodorize clothes on rainy days without incurring any additional costs.
Vinegar or Lemon
White vinegar can effectively deodorize clothes.
To use, simply mix ¼ cup of white vinegar with clean water and soak the clothes for 5-15 minutes. Then, rinse the clothes with clean water or run them through a laundry cycle to eliminate any remaining odors.
If vinegar is not available, a teaspoon of lemon juice mixed with a cup of water can be sprayed onto the clothes using a spray bottle. However, it should be noted that this method may cause fading of fabric fibers. To prevent fading, the solution can be sprayed on the inside of the garment instead of the outside.
Vodka
Vodka can also be used to deodorize clothes on rainy days.
To use, simply spray a little vodka directly onto the clothes and hang them in a dry place. The alcohol content in vodka helps to quickly evaporate the odor. Afterwards, the surface of the garment can be cleaned with water to enhance the scent.
Essential Oils
Natural essential oils are an effective way to deodorize clothes on rainy days.
To use, add a few drops of essential oil to a steam iron and gently glide it over the fabric surface. The essential oils will penetrate the clothes, improving their scent even on rainy and humid days.
Baking Soda
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, can be used to deodorize clothes on rainy days.
To use, simply sprinkle baking soda on the areas of the clothes with strong odors, such as collars and underarms, and leave overnight. Then, wash the clothes as usual to restore a pleasant scent.
Source: Brightside