Before trying all the soaking, etc. which I am sure works also.....I take the donated fabric and put it out in my well hosue which is cold and dry. Leave it a few weeks and walla....no smell. Then you can do normal washing. Cigarette smoke, pet smells, etc. I found this out because my sister smokes and gave me some great purses and when I got home I could smell the smoke..put them outside just because and discovered it worked. no smell. Hope this little suggestion works.