To help your relative get rid of a bad smell in their clothes, follow these steps:
Identify the source of the smell: Before attempting to remove the odor, it's essential to identify the cause of the bad smell. Common culprits include sweat, mildew, food spills, or pet odors.
Separate and sort the clothes: Sort the clothes into different piles based on their fabric type and color. This will help you choose the appropriate cleaning method for each garment.
Pre-treat the affected areas: For specific spots with strong odors, pre-treat the clothes with a stain remover or a mixture of vinegar and water (1:1 ratio). Gently rub the solution into the affected area before laundering.
Wash with a good detergent: Use a good-quality laundry detergent designed to remove tough odors. Follow the care instructions on the clothing labels, and wash the clothes at the highest water temperature suitable for the fabrics.
Add vinegar or baking soda to the wash: For persistent odors, you can add half a cup of white vinegar or baking soda to the wash cycle. These substances can help neutralize bad smells.
Sun-dry the clothes: If possible, let the clothes dry in direct sunlight. The sun's rays have natural disinfecting properties and can help eliminate odors.
Use fabric softener or odor-eliminating products: After washing, consider using fabric softener sheets or odor-eliminating products designed for laundry. These can leave the clothes smelling fresh.
Check the washing machine and dryer: Sometimes, lingering smells in clothes can be due to a dirty washing machine or dryer. Clean the washing machine drum and detergent dispenser regularly and ensure the dryer's lint trap is cleaned after every use.
Store clothes properly: Make sure the clothes are completely dry before storing them. Storing damp or sweaty clothes can lead to mold and mildew, causing bad smells.
Consider professional cleaning: If the bad smell persists despite trying these methods, it might be worth taking the clothes to a professional cleaner. They may have specialized techniques to remove stubborn odors effectively.
Remember, it's essential to read and follow the care instructions on the clothing labels to avoid damaging the garments during the cleaning process.