How to remove really strong washing powder smell from clothes?

confusedmummy

Can anyone help me? A very nice lady gave me a bunch of clothes from freecycle for which I am very grateful. However, they have been washed in the strongest smelling washing powder and it is giving me such a headache. I have washed the clothes once to try and get rid of the old washing powder smell but it is still really really strong. Is there anyway i can get rid of it?

Fraggle25

Sorry if stating the obvious, but I would say put them through for a couple of rinses in the washing machine, with no soap powder, and then while the weather is nice just stick them out on the line for a day - nothing like a good airing!

Failing that bicarb of soda is good for absorbing all kinds of odours. Not sure of the best way to use it in this case, though. You could try it in the wash, though it may foam up a lot. Or try filling a cup half full of bicarb and standing it in an enclosed space with the clothes on a shelf or hanging in a cupboard maybe.

Eenymeeny

I would agree with the bicarb or a good airing. You could also try some old newspapers inserted between them in a pile. Something in the newsprint absorbes the smell. (I was given this tip after DS was sick in the car, it works!:))

treaclebob

There is something in newsprint that inhibits bacteria as well. It is recommended for laying down on the floor for emergency childbirth!

Owain_Moneysaver

treaclebob wrote: »

There is something in newsprint that inhibits bacteria as well. It is recommended for laying down on the floor for emergency childbirth!

An unopened newspaper is almost sterile, but I don't know if it's inherently antibacterial.