Sunscreen is an essential part of any outdoor activity, whether it’s spending a day at the beach or taking a walk in the park. It protects our skin from harmful UV rays that can cause sunburns, premature aging, and skin cancer.
However, wearing sunscreen can come with a downside – it can leave a strong odor on clothes that lingers even after washing. This odor can be unpleasant and embarrassing, especially if you’re trying to maintain a professional appearance.
The purpose of this article is to provide tips and tricks on how to remove sunscreen smell from clothes so you can feel clean and fresh after spending time outdoors. We’ll cover pre-treatment tips for stains, washing techniques for removing odors, drying tips for preserving fabrics, prevention tips for future incidents and everything in between so you won’t have to worry about smelling like sunscreen all day long.
Understanding Sunscreen Smell
Explaining the Distinct Smell of Sunscreens
Sunscreen odor is a result of various chemicals that are used in making sun protection products. Some of the common ingredients that cause the characteristic smell include avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. These chemicals work by absorbing or reflecting UV radiation from the sun, but they can also interact with sweat and sebum on our skin and clothing to create a distinctive odor.
The smell of sunscreen is often described as being either “plastic-like” or “chemical.” This odor can be off-putting to some people, especially those with sensitive senses of smell. Unfortunately, this smell can linger on clothes even after washing.
How Sunscreen Ingredients can Cause Stains and Odors on Clothes
Many sunscreen products contain oils that are meant to help hydrate our skin while providing UV protection. However, these oils can also leave behind stains on clothing as they seep into fabric fibers. The oils may also trap dirt and sweat particles in the fabric which further contribute to bad odors.
Additionally, some sunscreen products contain colorants or dyes that can stain light-colored clothes. This discoloration may not be visible immediately but will show up after washing it in warm water.
Other factors besides ingredients that affect how strongly sunscreens adhere to clothing include how much product was applied initially and what type of fabric it is applied onto. For example, synthetic fabrics like nylon tend to hold onto smells more compared to cotton materials.
The problem with these types of stains is that they aren’t removed easily during normal laundering cycles because they cling too tightly to fabric fibers due to heat from dryer settings or even just body heat when wearing them again. It’s important for people who apply sunscreen regularly outdoors or while doing activities like swimming or exercising outdoors regularly understand this issue so that they can take necessary precautions to prevent sunscreen stains and odor on their clothes.
How to Get Sunscreen Smell Out of Clothes?
Once you have pre-treated your clothes, it’s time to wash them. There are several washing techniques that you can use to remove sunscreen smell from clothes.
Hot Water
One of the most effective ways to remove sunscreen smell is by using hot water. Hot water can help break down the oils and ingredients in sunscreen that cause odor. When washing your clothes with hot water, make sure to check the care label first.
Some fabrics cannot withstand high temperatures and may shrink or become damaged. To wash your clothes with hot water, set your washing machine to its highest temperature setting.
Add your regular detergent and let the machine run its cycle as usual. Once the cycle is complete, hang your clothes outside in direct sunlight to air dry.
Vinegar or Baking Soda
White vinegar and baking soda are known for their ability to neutralize odors. If you don’t want to use hot water or if your clothes cannot be washed in high temperatures, you can try adding white vinegar or baking soda to the wash cycle.
To use white vinegar, add one cup of white distilled vinegar to the wash cycle along with your regular detergent. Let the machine run its cycle as usual.
Once the cycle is complete, hang your clothes outside in direct sunlight to air dry. To use baking soda, add one cup of baking soda to the wash cycle along with your regular detergent.
Let the machine run its cycle as usual. Once the cycle is complete, hang your clothes outside in direct sunlight to air dry.
Specialized Odor Removing Detergents
If you’re looking for a more specialized solution for removing sunscreen smell from clothes, there are several odor removing detergents available on the market today. These detergents are designed specifically for removing tough odors like those caused by sunscreen.
When using an odor removing detergent, be sure to follow the instructions on the label. These detergents may require you to use a specific amount or to wash your clothes at a certain temperature.
Step-by-Step Instructions
No matter which washing technique you choose, here are some step-by-step instructions that will help you get rid of sunscreen smell from your clothes:
- Check the care label on your clothes before washing them.
- Pre-treat any stains with vinegar or baking soda.
- Add hot water or specialized odor removing detergent to the wash cycle.
- Let the machine run its cycle as usual.
- Hang your clothes outside in direct sunlight to air dry.
By following these steps and using one of these effective washing techniques, you can effectively remove sunscreen smell from your clothes and keep them smelling fresh and clean all summer long!
Drying Tips
Why Air Drying is Important
After washing clothes that have been exposed to sunscreen, it’s important to dry them properly to ensure that any remaining odors are eliminated. Air drying is the best option as it allows the clothes to breathe and not trap any moisture or odors. It’s also better for the environment as it saves energy compared to using a dryer.
When drying clothes that have been treated for sunscreen odor, avoid using a dryer as heat can set any remaining stains or odors into the fabric. If air-drying indoors, make sure there’s plenty of ventilation in the room to avoid trapping moisture and odors.
Using Sunlight for Odor Removal
One effective way of getting rid of sunscreen smell from clothes is by hanging them outside in direct sunlight. The UV rays from the sun can help break down residual oils and chemicals from the sunscreen and eliminate any remaining odors. To use this method, hang your freshly washed clothes outside on a clothesline or hanger in direct sunlight.
Make sure they’re fully exposed to the sun and not in a shaded area. Leave them out for at least an hour, turning them over halfway through if possible.
It’s important to note that while sunlight can help eliminate odors, it can also cause fading in certain fabrics and colors. Avoid hanging dark or brightly colored clothing in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
Alternative Drying Techniques
If air-drying outside isn’t an option due to weather conditions or lack of space, there are alternative methods you can use indoors. One option is using a dehumidifier or fan to circulate air around your drying rack or hanger. This will help dry your clothes faster while also preventing any moisture from being trapped and causing musty odors.
Another option is using an odor-eliminating spray or fabric freshener after washing and before air-drying. Look for products specifically designed to remove odors from clothes, such as those containing activated charcoal or baking soda.
Prevention Tips
Protective Clothing
Wearing protective clothing is a great way to prevent sunscreen stains and odors on your clothes. Consider investing in lightweight, breathable clothing that provides adequate sun protection.
Look for clothing with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings to ensure maximum sun protection. Choose long-sleeved shirts and pants made from light-colored, quick-drying materials to keep you cool during the hottest parts of the day.
Apply Sunscreen Before Getting Dressed
Another great way to prevent sunscreen stains and odors on your clothes is to apply sunscreen before getting dressed. Allow enough time for the sunscreen to fully absorb into your skin before putting on your clothes. This will help reduce the likelihood of the sunscreen transferring onto your clothes and causing stains or odors.
Use Non-Staining Sunscreen
When shopping for sunscreen, look for products that are labeled as non-staining or non-greasy. These types of sunscreens are less likely to leave stains or marks on your clothes after application.
Avoid Over-Application of Sunscreen
Over-application of sunscreen can cause more stains and odors on your clothes than necessary. Apply a thin, even layer of sunscreen to avoid any excess product that may transfer onto your clothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get Sunscreen Out of Clothes?
To get sunscreen out of clothes, start by gently scraping off any excess sunscreen from the fabric using a spoon or a dull knife. Then, blot the stained area with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb any oil or residue. Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it in. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wash the garment according to the care instructions.
Can You Get Sunscreen Out of Fabric?
Yes, it is possible to get sunscreen out of fabric. The key is to act quickly and treat the stain as soon as possible. Follow the steps mentioned above, such as scraping off the excess sunscreen, blotting the area, applying detergent, and washing the fabric according to the care instructions.
Does Sunscreen Come Out of Clothes in The Wash?
Sunscreen stains typically come out of clothes in the wash, especially if you take prompt action. However, it’s essential to pretreat the stain by following the steps mentioned earlier to increase the chances of successful removal. Additionally, using an appropriate laundry detergent and selecting the correct water temperature for the fabric type can help ensure effective stain removal.
How Do You Get Oily Sunscreen Out of Clothes?
To remove oily sunscreen from clothes, start by blotting the stained area with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much oil as possible. Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid or laundry detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it in. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the oils. Then, wash the garment in the hottest water temperature recommended for the fabric.
Will Vinegar Remove Sunscreen?
Vinegar can be used as a natural remedy to remove sunscreen stains. Before washing the garment, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water. Soak the stained area in the vinegar solution for about 30 minutes. After soaking, gently rub the fabric together or use a soft brush to loosen the stain. Rinse the garment with cold water and then wash it as usual.
How Does Vinegar Get Sunscreen Out of Clothes?
Vinegar can help remove sunscreen from clothes due to its acidic properties. It helps break down the oils and residues left by the sunscreen. When mixed with water, vinegar creates a solution that can penetrate the fabric and lift the stain. Soaking the stained area in the vinegar solution helps to loosen the sunscreen, making it easier to wash away.
Final Thoughts
Sunscreen is an essential part of protecting our skin from harmful UV rays, but it can also leave stubborn stains and unpleasant odors on our clothes if not properly addressed. With these tips and tricks, you can easily remove any lingering scent from your garments before it becomes too much of a problem. By pre-treating stains with vinegar or baking soda, washing with hot water or specialized odor removing detergents, air drying in direct sunlight, wearing protective clothing or applying sunscreen before getting dressed – you can avoid these issues altogether.
With a little bit of effort, you can keep your clothes smelling fresh and clean all summer long. Don’t let sunscreen stains and odors ruin your favorite clothes.
Take the necessary precautions to prevent them from happening in the first place, and if they do occur, use these helpful tips to quickly remove them. Stay sun-safe and odor-free!
