Dear Lifehacker,We recently moved my father into a long-term care facility.
The trouble is that he was a lifelong smoker and everything reeks from years of smoke.
We want to keep these things, but the smell is just awful.
What can we do?
And yes, if they smoke inside, the smell gets into everything.
The good news is that we have some pretty good ways for destinking your mementos.
For other items, a few days may be all it takes.
you’re free to even getreally big Ziploc bagsif you need them.
Of course, sometimes those stubborn smoke smells are going to take a little more work.
If the clothes are indeed machine-washable, don’t mix them with your other clothes.
And when you’re finally done washing, double-check your washer hasn’t picked up any odor itself.
If it has, run it through a cleaning cycle.
Leave them hanging for a day in sunlight and fresh air.
You should also dry them this way after washing, if possible.
Take delicate or dry-clean only clothing to a professional.
If you don’t like chemical treatments, let them know and they may have some options for you.
Personally, I think I’d spring for the cost of the leather cleaner.
How you clean the inside of the item depends on what it’s made of.
Put this inside the item and leave for several days.
Just like with other fabrics, fresh air and sunlight will go a long way to reducing odors.
Mix equal parts warm water and distilled white vinegar.
If the cloth gets dirty, switch to another clean one so you’re not just smearing grime around.
Vinegar also does a great job at removing mildew from books and other surfaces.
And don’t worry.
The smell fades quickly so you won’t be reading vinegary books.
Is it wood or upholstered?
If it’s wood, is the wood well sealed?
What’s the upholstery made of?
Replace the material as needed.
Wipe the outside down with a white vinegar and warm water solution and let it dry.
After that, use a good quality wood cleaner.
Many upholstered pieces are okay to wash yourself, but check the labels first.
Hopefully those tips help you out a bit, Smoked Out!
Good luck clearing the air, and enjoying those memories that your father gave to you and your family!
Sincerely,Lifehacker
Lead photo byDucDigital.Other images bytrenttsd,,Robert Sheie,Kamal Hamid, andDaniel Dudek-Corrigan.
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