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Old 03-06-2011, 05:34 AM
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FERSID
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I came across these tips in a Quilting Newsletter and hope they may help any who are faced with getting rid of odours from Quilts and fabrics in general.

TAKING CARE OF
STRONG ODORS
There are several methods to remove odors from quilts or tops. If the odors are mild, hang the quilt outdoors, keeping it in the shade so sunlight does not affect it, and allow the breezes to clear the odor. If you do not have a place to hang the quilt, try placing a sheet on the ground (again, in the shade) and spread the quilt on top. Use weights in the corners to keep it flat.

Stronger odors can be eliminated by the following methods:
Place the quilt in a container with a tight fitting lid. Wrap charcoal briquettes in a loose-weave fabric, such as cheesecloth, and place it in the container. Put the lid on and let it sit for 1-3 days. The charcoal should absorb the odors.
Use the previous method, but instead of charcoal, use a bar of Irish Spring soap.

Spread the quilt on a floor, using a sheet under it for protection. Generously sprinkle baking soda over the quilt. Roll up the quilt in the sheet and let it sit overnight. Shake out the quilt (preferably outdoors!) and put it through an air cycle in your dryer.

Some have suggested using a spray product such as Fabreeze, but note that some people are very allergic to the ingredients in these products and pets can be allergic as well.

A home-remedy spray can be made with 1 capful of liquid fabric softener, 1 ½ cups water and 1 cup (cheap) vodka. Vodka is known to remove odors. I would test this on another fabric first. There is no odor from the vodka.
Place the quilt in a dryer with dryer sheets, running it on just air without heat.
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