How To Remove Kerosene Smell From Clothing
Kerosene heaters are an excellent way to cut winter heating costs. However, the downside is that it is a petroleum-based product which emits an odor when burned. Because of this, clothes tend to absorb the smell, and worse, stick around for a while.
Since kerosene is petroleum-based, the combustion odor can penetrate deep into the fiber. It is important to remove the kerosene smell as soon as possible to prevent any fire hazards.
Supplies
- Baking soda
- Cornstarch
- Petroleum solvent
- Laundry detergent
- White vinegar
- Washer
- Bucket
- Pre-soak the garments for at least 30 minutes in a bucket by adding 1/2-cup of baking soda, cornstarch or petroleum solvent, and water before running them through the normal wash cycle in the washing machine. It is important to note that regardless if pre-soaked, the garments may still retain some of the kerosene odor.
- Place the pre-soaked clothes into the washer and add regular detergent to the wash cycle. Depending on the severity of the smell, additional baking soda or cornstarch may need to be added.
- Use the hottest setting available for washing these items. Lay or hang the clothes outside in the sunlight to dry. Air drying can help eliminate some of the smell. If the clothes still contain a kerosene odor, do not place them into your clothes dryer, as they can potentially ignite a fire.
- Place them back into the washer and launder the items again, adding one-cup of white vinegar to the load along with the detergent. It may require several washings to completely eliminate the smell.