How To Get Fish Oil Smell Out Of Clothes? Say Goodbye to That Unpleasant Odor!

There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh seafood, but unfortunately, that delicious flavor often comes with an unpleasant side effect: fishy smells. If you’re someone who has ever been left with a lingering odor on your clothes after preparing or eating fish, then you know just how frustrating it can be.

The good news is that there are some easy and effective ways to get fish oil smell out of clothes so that you can say goodbye to that less-than-pleasant aroma for good. Whether you’ve spilled some fish oil on your favorite shirt or simply caught some of the scent while working in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ll explore some tried-and-true methods for removing that stubborn fishy smell from your clothing. From using vinegar to baking soda, we’ll provide tips and tricks that will have your clothes smelling fresh as new in no time.

If you’re tired of avoiding certain foods because of the lingering odors they leave behind, read on to learn how to banish those unwanted scents forever!

Understanding the Fish Oil Smell

If you’ve taken fish oil supplements before, you’re probably familiar with the strong and pungent smell. This distinct odor is caused by the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy body.

Fish oil is extracted from oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. It contains two important types of omega-3 fatty acids – EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These fatty acids offer numerous health benefits but they’re also responsible for emitting the unpleasant fishy smell associated with fish oil supplements.

The Science Behind the Smell

The fishy smell coming from your fish oil supplement occurs when the omega-3s oxidize. When oxygen reacts with these fatty acids, it causes the production of volatile breakdown products that emit the characteristic odor that many people find unpleasant.

Additionally, some fish oils contain trace amounts of trimethylamine oxide (TMAO), which gets converted into trimethylamine (TMA) by bacteria found on the skin or in the gut. TMA is known for its distinctive “rotten fish” odor, and can contribute to the overall smell of a poorly manufactured fish oil supplement.

Why Fish Oil Supplements Smell Worse Than Fish Itself

Even though fresh fish also have a distinctive odor, when cooked properly, this smell dissipates quickly. However, because fish oil capsules do not go through cooking preparations, their fishy odor lingers long after consumption.

Furthermore, fish oil supplements are often sourced from less desirable sweeping parts of fish, which may have accumulated higher levels of toxins, including PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and mercury. These pollutants may not be fully separated through the extraction process, contributing to the strong smell.

How to Identify if Your Clothes are Affected by Fish Oil Smell

If you’ve taken fish oil supplements or used fish oil for cooking, it’s possible that your clothes may have absorbed some of the odor. Here’s how to identify if your clothes are affected:

• An overwhelming smell of fish when wearing specific clothing items.
• The scent lingers even after washing and drying the garment many times.
• You can smell the fishy odor from a distance when walking past an individual wearing the affected clothing.

To confirm that your garments are indeed contaminated with the fishy smell, hold them close to your nose and check for any lingering odors. Alternatively, ask someone else in the room if they can detect the smell coming from your clothes.

“The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil offer numerous health benefits but their distinctive aroma is often unpleasant to those who consume them.” -Dr. Nora M. Doyle

Pre-Treating Your Clothes

If you’re someone who regularly takes fish oil supplements, it’s possible that the scent of fish might linger on your clothes even after washing them. Fortunately, there are a few ways to pre-treat your clothes before washing them to help get rid of that unwanted odor.

Using Lemon Juice to Pre-Treat

Lemon juice is a natural cleaning agent and can be an effective way to reduce odors on clothing. To use lemon juice as a pre-treatment method:

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice into a bowl
• Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the lemon juice and apply it directly onto the areas of the fabric where the smell persists
• Rub gently for a minute or two and allow the juice to set in for at least ten minutes
• Wash the garment with regular laundry detergent adding some baking soda to the drum

You may need to repeat this process several times depending on how strong the odor is. Once the smell has dissipated, wash the item as you normally would.

“Lemon juice works well as a natural stain remover because of its acidic properties.” -Jenni Redman, founder of The Cleaning Crew

Using White Vinegar to Pre-Treat

White vinegar is another natural cleaning solution that can help neutralize odors on clothing. Here’s how to use it for pre-treating:

• Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a bowl
• Apply the solution to the affected areas of the garment using a spray bottle or damp cloth
• Gently rub the solution into the fabric and allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes
• Wash the item in your washing machine with laundry detergent and baking soda added directly to the drum of the machine.

If you need to remove a tougher odor such as the smell of fish oil, you can add some white vinegar directly to the wash cycle along with your regular detergent.

“White vinegar naturally disinfects while removing odors.” -Heather Dessinger, founder of Mommypotamus

Using Baking Soda to Pre-Treat

Baking soda is another versatile cleaning agent that can help remove unwanted smells from clothing. Here’s how to use it:

• Mix one part water and three parts baking soda together in a bowl to form a paste
• Use a clean cloth or sponge to apply the paste onto the affected areas of the garment and rub gently
• Allow the paste to set on the clothing for at least thirty minutes
• Wash the item using your normal laundry detergent and add an extra half cup of baking soda to the drum.

When pre-treating clothes with baking soda, make sure to test it out on an inconspicuous area first to ensure that it doesn’t damage or bleach the fabric.

“Baking soda has natural deodorizing and mild abrasive properties, making it an excellent cleaner.” -Nicole Anzia, The Washington Post

Washing with Vinegar

If you’ve accidentally spilled fish oil on your clothes, don’t panic. There’s a simple solution to get rid of the pungent smell that lingers in the fabric. Using vinegar can help neutralize the odor and leave your clothes smelling fresh again.

The Correct Ratio of Vinegar to Water

Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that has been used for centuries to clean and sanitize homes and clothing. However, using too much vinegar can damage the fabric of your garments. To avoid this, it’s essential to use the correct ratio of vinegar to water when washing your clothes.

A good rule of thumb is to mix one part white vinegar (apple cider vinegar works too) with four parts water. For example, if you’re using 1 cup of vinegar, add 4 cups of water to dilute the solution. You can adjust the ratios according to how much laundry you need to wash.

Adding Essential Oils to the Vinegar Solution

Vinegar has a strong smell that not everyone appreciates, which is why adding essential oils can be an effective way to mask the scent. Several essential oils, such as lavender, tea tree, or lemon, have antimicrobial properties that can help disinfect and refresh your clothes.

To make your laundry solution more fragrant, mix several drops of your favorite essential oil into the vinegar-water mixture. Make sure to stir everything well before pouring the solution into the washing machine.

How to Avoid Damaging Clothes While Washing with Vinegar

Vinegar can remove stains and odors effectively without the need for harsh chemicals. However, acidic substances like vinegar can weaken the fibers of some fabrics, especially delicate ones like silk or wool. To avoid damaging your clothes while washing them with vinegar, follow these tips:

• Start by testing the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your clothing to make sure there’s no discoloration or damage.
• Avoid using vinegar on silk, wool, rayon, and other delicate fabrics since they can shrink or lose their shape with acidic exposure.
• Don’t mix vinegar with bleach or other cleaning products, as it may produce harmful gases.

“Vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner for most surfaces in your home, but when used improperly, it can cause irreversible damage to some materials.” -Melissa Maker, founder of Clean My Space

Vinegar is a versatile and affordable solution that can help you remove fish oil smell from your clothes naturally. Using the right ratio of vinegar to water along with some essential oils can also add fragrance and freshness to your laundry. Keep in mind that not every fabric can withstand acidic substances like vinegar, so always test the solution first and read the care label before washing your garments.”

Using Baking Soda as an Odor Neutralizer

If you’ve cooked fish for dinner or spent some time on a fishing trip, you know how difficult it can be to get rid of the smell on your clothes. Luckily, baking soda is a natural odor neutralizer that can help eliminate those unwanted scents.

Applying Baking Soda Directly to Clothes

You can apply baking soda directly onto your clothes by sprinkling it over the affected areas and rubbing it in gently with your hands. Let the baking soda sit for at least 30 minutes before shaking it off outside or washing the garment like normal. You can also try making a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water to create a thick consistency. Apply the paste to the affected area and let it sit for an hour before rinsing it off under cold water. This method may require multiple applications if the odor is particularly strong.

“Baking soda is effective as it works by interacting with other odorous compounds, such as those within pungent-smelling amines. Baking soda – aka sodium bicarbonate – is mildly alkaline, which makes it able to interact with the sour notes of acids found in particular foodstuffs.”

Mixing Baking Soda with Laundry Detergent

Another way to use baking soda to remove fish oil smell from clothing is to mix it with your regular laundry detergent. Add half a cup of baking soda to your washing machine during the rinse cycle along with your usual detergent. The combination will work together to break down and remove any lingering odors. It’s important to note that using too much baking soda can actually damage fabrics, so follow the instructions carefully and do not exceed the recommended amount.

“Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and its applications in food processing.” -Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition

Remember to always check the care label on your clothing before attempting any odor-removing techniques. Some fabrics, such as silk or wool, may be more delicate and require special attention. Using baking soda is a safe, natural and effective way to eliminate fish oil smells from clothes. Give it a try next time you’re dealing with stubborn odors!

Trying Enzymatic Detergents

If you’re a seafood lover, then you know how important omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil is to your health. Unfortunately, the smell of fish oil can be both stubborn and overwhelming, especially when it stains your clothes. Here’s how to get rid of that dreaded odour from your fabrics using enzymatic detergents.

How Enzymatic Detergents Work

Enzymatic detergents are specially formulated to break down organic stains caused by bodily fluids such as blood, urine, sweat, and even fish oils. The active enzymes in these detergents work by breaking down complex molecules into simpler substances so that they can be easily removed from fabrics during washing. Essentially, protein-based stains like fish oil have amino acid chains that need to be broken apart in order for them to dissolve in water – and this is what enzymes do best!

Not all enzymes are created equal, so choosing the right one for your fabric is critical if you want the best results. Typically, you’ll find enzyme cleaners categorized into three groups:

• Protease: These enzymes target protein-based stains like those found in fish oil or meat juice.
• Amylase: These enzymes are great for breaking down starchy residue on clothing caused by food like pasta or rice.
• Lipase: These enzymes are ideal for removing oily spots or grease marks left behind by foods like butter or salad dressing.

The good news is that most enzymatic detergents combine two or all three of these enzymes to create an effective product capable of tackling multiple stain types at once. All you need to do is pick the right detergent based on the type of stain found on your clothes.

Choosing the Right Enzymatic Detergent for Your Fabric

When shopping for enzymatic detergents, keep in mind that one size does not fit all. Some products are designed specifically for certain fabric types or colours, while others work best with specific water temperatures. Here’s what to consider before settling on a detergent:

• Fabric type: Certain fabrics may require gentler detergents than others to help protect their fibres from damage. For example, silk and wool typically need mild detergents that won’t cause shrinkage or fading.
• Colour fastness: If you’re dealing with colourful stains like those found in fruit juice or wine, it’s important to choose a detergent that doesn’t bleach or fade the colour of your garments.
• Water temperature: It’s always best to follow garment care labels when deciding on water temperature, as some delicate fabrics can only be washed in cold water, while others can handle hot water without a problem.
• Scent preferences: Enzymatic detergents usually come in fragranced and non-fragranced options, so pick one based on your sense of smell.

Once you’ve chosen the right detergent for your clothes, here are some steps you can take to help eliminate fish oil smells from them:

1. If the stain is fresh, blot the excess oil using a paper towel or cloth. Do not rub the stain as this will only force the oil deeper into the fabric.
2. Pour a small amount of enzymatic detergent onto the affected area and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. Wash the garment according to its laundry instructions using the recommended amount of detergent and water temperature.
4. Inspect the fabric after washing and if any remnants of the smell linger, consider reapplying the enzyme cleaner before drying.

In addition to enzymatic detergents, there are other home remedies that you can use alongside to completely remove the fish oil smell from your clothes. For instance:

“Apply white vinegar directly onto the stain after rinsing with cold water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before washing the garment again.”

Another option is to create a paste using baking soda or cornstarch and apply it onto the affected area before washing. Baking soda has odour-neutralizing properties that work to absorb unpleasant smells – including those found in fish oils! Just mix one part baking soda with three parts water until it forms a thick paste and spread it generously over the stain. Let it rest on the fabric for a few hours before running it through a regular wash cycle.

You don’t have to live with the lingering smell of fish oils on your clothes anymore. Simply follow these steps and bid farewell to stubborn protein-based stains forever!

Using Professional Odor Eliminators

How Professional Odor Eliminators Work

If you have tried washing your fish oil stained clothes several times and the smell still lingers, it’s time to consider using professional odor eliminators. Professional odor eliminators are specially designed to remove stubborn smells from fabrics that regular detergents can’t handle.

The primary function of odor eliminators is to neutralize bad odors by breaking down the chemical compounds causing the stench and not just masking them with a pleasant fragrance. These products work at a molecular level, destroying the offending odor molecules instead of covering them up temporarily.

Professional odor eliminators come in various forms, including sprays, powders, and concentrates. Some popular types include enzyme-based cleaners, activated carbon sprays, and bacterial sprays.

“Odor eliminating formulas contain ingredients specifically chosen to tackle different kinds of organic and chemical-based smells…For example, products containing enzymes break down or “digest” specific substances such as blood, urine, and feces.” – Charlie Alliston, Cleaning Expert on Smell Insider

Choosing the Right Odor Eliminator for Different Types of Fabrics

Not all odor eliminators work best on every type of fabric, so it’s essential to choose one that suits the material of your garment. Here’s a guide about which product works best on various fabrics:

• Cotton: Enzyme-based or natural odor eliminator sprays work excellently for cotton materials.
• Silks or synthetic fibers: Conventional fabric sprays can help control unpleasant scents without damaging silk fibers or synthetic fabrics.
• Linenmaterials: Natural enzymes are the best option to get rid of terrible smells on linen materials.
• Leather: Activated charcoal sprays are gentle and effective for removing odors from leather jackets, shoes, and bags.

Always read the product label carefully before buying an odor eliminator and ensure that it is suitable for your garment type. Your clothes are an investment, so it’s essential to take good care of them by using appropriate products.

“Enzyme-based cleaners work wonders in getting smelly stains out of washable fabrics… These cleaners use natural enzymes (proteins) produced by bacteria to break down organic matter like blood or food stains.” -Professional Cleaner, The Spruce

Professional odor eliminators can help you restore freshness to your favorite garments after a calamity has struck. Remember always to choose the appropriate product for your fabric type and consider keeping one in your house to be prepared when a bad smell invades your clothing. Happy laundry day!

Frequently Asked Questions