We all love authentic Mexican cuisine. But sometimes the smell can really linger on your clothes long after your meal is over. From cumin and chili peppers to salty chips and greasy tacos, Mexican food’s bold aromatic compounds can infuse into fabrics.
Luckily, there are ways to banish the lingering aroma of Mexican fare from your wardrobe. Here are some simple, effective methods to get Mexican food smells out of clothes.
Let Fresh Air In
One of the easiest ways to combat food odors on clothes is letting them air out. As soon as possible after eating, hang worn garments outside or drape them near an open window. Exposure to fresh outdoor breezes helps lift and disperse odor molecules.
You can also place clothes outside to air dry after washing. The sunlight and open air allows any last traces of smells to dissipate.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a deodorizing wonder for smelly clothes. Its alkalinity helps neutralize odors rather than just mask them.
For quick treatment, simply sprinkle baking soda liberally on affected garments. Let sit 30 minutes before brushing off excess powder.
For a more thorough approach:
- Dissolve 1 cup baking soda into a bucket of cold water
- Add clothes and let soak 4-6 hours
- Wash clothes as usual
The baking soda soak pulls odors from fabric fibers, leaving clothes fresh.
Try White Vinegar
White vinegar is another powerful odor eliminator safe for clothes. The acidic vinegar dissolves scent particles.
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water
- Soak clothes 1-2 hours
- Wash as normal
For tougher smells, do a soak with 1 cup vinegar + 1 cup baking soda. The interacting acidic and alkaline compounds double the deodorizing effects.
Use Vodka
Surprisingly, vodka can effectively remove smells from clothes. The ethanol alcohol in vodka works to dissolve and lift odor compounds.
- Lightly spritz affected garments with undiluted vodka
- Let air dry fully
The vodka smell dissipates as it dries. It does not leave clothes smelling boozy.
Opt for Odor Absorbers
Activated charcoal, zeolite, baking soda and even dryer sheets can absorb smelly molecules from fabric. Simply place them in a sealed bag or box with the clothes. The smelly compounds adhere to the absorber.
Wash Promptly
When dealing with strong food odors, washing clothes soon after wearing can prevent smells from setting into fabrics. Use hot water, as it helps lift odors. Add baking soda or vinegar to the cycle for extra deodorizing effects.
Freshen Storage Areas
Get rid of any lingering odors in your dresser drawers, closet and hampers. Place open boxes of baking soda or charcoal in them to keep the areas smelling fresh.
With the right techniques, you can enjoy Mexican cuisine without having the smell stick to your clothes. Try these deodorizing methods to keep your wardrobe smelling fresh and clean. ¡Buen provecho!
