How to Get the Sweat Smell Out of Clothes
There’s nothing like a good workout to make you feel energised and refreshed. Less energising? The sweat that comes with it.
Sweat is a natural bodily function, but the smell it leaves behind on clothes can be unpleasant. Whether it's from a hard workout, a hot day, or even stress, sweat odour can cling to your clothing, especially in fabrics that trap moisture. The good news is, there are effective ways to eliminate the smell and restore your clothes to their fresh-smelling state. In this article, we'll cover why sweat smells so strong, what causes it to linger on clothes, and how to get sweat smell out of clothes using proven methods — with a little help from Sassy Scents products for an extra touch of freshness.
What Causes Sweat to Smell?
Sweat itself is largely odourless, as it is composed mostly of water and salt. However, when sweat comes into contact with bacteria on your skin or clothing, it can begin to produce a distinctive, unpleasant smell. The main culprit behind sweat odour is the bacterium Brevibacterium, which feeds on the proteins and fatty acids found in your sweat. As the bacteria break down these compounds, they release a pungent scent that can cling to your clothes, especially in areas where sweat accumulates, such as the armpits, back, or feet.
The type of fabric also plays a role in how sweat smells. Synthetic fabrics, like polyester, are known for trapping moisture and bacteria, which makes it harder for the sweat to evaporate, leading to a stronger odour. Natural fibres like cotton, on the other hand, breathe better and allow sweat to evaporate more efficiently, reducing the chance of lingering odour.
Why Sweat Smell Lingers on Clothes
When sweat seeps into your clothes, especially if they are left damp for extended periods, it creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. This can lead to the development of a musty, sour smell that’s difficult to remove. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon hold onto sweat more than natural fibres like cotton and linen, which means that the sweat odour can become trapped deep within the fibres, making it harder to get rid of.
1. Wash Clothes Thoroughly
The first and most important step in removing sweat smell from clothes is to wash them thoroughly. Start by checking the care label on your clothes to ensure you're using the right temperature and detergent for the fabric. For regular cotton and linen items, washing with a good-quality detergent is usually enough to eliminate sweat odour.
For synthetic fabrics or items that are heavily saturated with sweat, a more powerful solution may be required. Adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle can help neutralise the bacteria that cause sweat smell. If you're dealing with stubborn odours, you might want to consider using an enzymatic cleaner that specifically targets the bacteria responsible for body odour.
2. Use Sassy Scents Odour Eliminating Products
Sometimes regular washing doesn’t quite do the trick, and the sweat smell persists even after a wash. This is where Sassy Scents products can help. The brand’s Odour Eliminating Fabric Spray is perfect for refreshing your clothes between washes and eliminating any lingering sweat odour. Simply spray it on your clothes before or after washing, and let it dry. The formula neutralises odours, leaving your clothes smelling fresh without harsh chemicals. It’s also a great option for fabrics that may be too delicate for frequent washing.
For added effectiveness, try Sassy Scents’ Odour Eliminating Multi-Purpose Powder. This product is great for deodorising your clothes before you wash them, or for treating areas that tend to trap odours, such as the armpits of shirts. Sprinkle the powder on the affected areas, let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes, then vacuum or shake it off. Not only does this product neutralise odours, but it also leaves your clothes with a subtle, refreshing fragrance. It’s an easy way to keep your clothes smelling fresh longer, without the need for frequent washes.
3. Pre-Treat Sweat Stains and Odour
If you're dealing with heavy sweat stains, especially in the underarm area, it’s a good idea to pre-treat your clothes before washing them. You can create a natural pre-treatment by mixing equal parts water and white vinegar, then applying it to the stained areas. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes before washing as usual.
Alternatively, you can use Sassy Scents’ Odour Eliminating Fabric Spray to target specific areas, such as the armpits, collar, or back, where sweat and bacteria tend to accumulate. The fabric spray works quickly to neutralise the smell, so your clothes are ready to go once you’ve given them a quick treatment.
4. Dry Clothes Properly
Proper drying is crucial to ensuring that your clothes remain free from sweat odour. If you're drying your clothes in a damp or humid area, such as a laundry room or basement, the moisture can get trapped in the fabric, promoting bacteria growth and causing the sweat smell to linger.
For best results, hang your clothes in a well-ventilated area or use a tumble dryer if the fabric allows for it. If you’re air-drying, make sure to leave plenty of space between each item to allow air circulation. Consider using a Sassy Scents Wax Melt in the room where you’re drying your clothes to help keep the air fresh and prevent any unwanted odours from being absorbed by your clothing.
5. Use Baking Soda for Extra Freshness
Baking soda is another effective natural remedy for sweat smells. It works by absorbing odours and neutralising bacteria. You can add half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle to boost the deodorising power of your detergent. Alternatively, sprinkle baking soda directly onto the areas with sweat odour before washing and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
6. Avoid Fabric Softener
While fabric softeners may seem like a good option for making clothes smell fresh, they can actually trap odours in the fabric. Fabric softeners tend to coat the fibres of your clothes, which can make it harder for them to fully dry and can also trap moisture. This can contribute to the accumulation of sweat and bacteria, leading to a stronger, more persistent smell. Instead, opt for a product like Sassy Scents’ Odour Eliminating Fabric Spray, which is designed to neutralise odours without leaving any residue behind.
7. Keep Clothes Dry Between Wearings
If you're not ready to wash your clothes after every use, it’s a good idea to hang them up to air out. For clothes that aren’t visibly dirty but still have a lingering smell, hang them in a well-ventilated area after each wear to allow the fabric to breathe and dry.
8. Storage Tips for Fresh Clothes
Once your clothes are freshly washed and free of sweat odour, make sure to store them in a dry, clean area to prevent the smell from returning. Consider using fabric bags or garment bags to protect your clothes from external odours, especially if you store them in a place with poor ventilation.
9. Choose Breathable Fabrics
The best way to prevent sweat odour in the first place is by choosing clothing made from breathable fabrics. Natural fibres such as cotton, linen, and wool are excellent choices for clothing that allows sweat to evaporate quickly. On the other hand, synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon tend to trap moisture, making it harder for sweat to evaporate and encouraging the growth of bacteria that causes odour. When purchasing new clothes, opt for breathable fabrics, especially for items that you wear during physical activity or in hot weather.
How To Get of That Sweaty Smell
Sweat smell in clothes is a common problem that can be easily addressed with the right techniques and products. Regular washing, pre-treating sweat stains, drying clothes properly, and using Sassy Scents’ Odour Eliminating Fabric Spray and Odour Eliminating Powder can all help remove persistent sweat odours and restore freshness to your clothes. For ongoing freshness, consider incorporating Sassy Scents’ range of products, such as Wax Melts, into your laundry routine or storage areas. With the right care, you can keep your clothes smelling fresh and clean, no matter how active your day has been.
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