Gym bags, backpacks, and pocketbooks can smell bad.There are a lot of ways to keep your bags smelling new.A variety of home deodorizing methods can be used to absorb odors from pocketbooks and handbags.A clean bag can keep it smelling good.
Step 1: Leave the bag outside to get rid of it.
A good airing out can make a bag smell better.Leave the bag outside for a day.After a few hours, check to see if the smell has improved.If that is the case, you don't have to do anything else to mask odors.It doesn't get rained on if you air the bag out on a nice day.You could leave the bag in the garage or covered porch for a similar effect.To really test the smell, bring the bag back inside.You might not be able to smell odors outside.
Step 2: To remove smells, wipe the inside of the bag with a solution of water and vinegar.
A solution of warm water and white vinegar is needed.If you want to make suds, add a drop of dish soap.Put a clean sponge or rag in the mixture and squeeze it out.Rewet the inside of the bag with a damp sponge or rag.The sponge should not be soaked.Make sure it is not wet.If you don't know what material the bag is made of, put a small amount of solution in a hidden spot and let it sit for a few minutes.It should be safe for the rest of the bag if you don't see any damage.You can spray the inside of the bag with a spray bottle if you want.
Step 3: If the smell doesn't go away, apply a store-bought spray.
If you want a commercial odor eliminator, open the bag and spray it.The bag should be kept open to let the air out.Check to see if the smell is gone after the spray dries.The smell of a scented product may be overpowering.Only spray the interior if you want to clean a handbag.If the bag is leather, it could leave a mark on the exterior.
Step 4: Baking soda can be sprinkled into the bag to absorb odors.
Baking soda can help eliminate odors in your home.Either sprinkle it into the bag or put it in a plastic bag and leave it open.Baking soda can be given a few hours to absorb odors.Baking soda can be used for refrigerators.You won't have to worry about making a mess with the baking soda because this keeps it contained.
Step 5: To absorb bad smells, leave kitty litter inside the bag for a week.
Eliminating odors can be similar to baking soda.Leave it in the bag in a cup or plastic container.Allow the kitty litter to absorb the odor for up to a week by putting the bag up.It won't get knocked over if you place the bag somewhere else.It will be difficult to get the litter out of the bag if it spills.
Step 6: Coffee grounds that are dry can be used to make a potpourri effect.
Coffee grounds provide a pleasant smell and can absorb odors.Take a coffee filter and fill it with coffee grounds.Seal it with a rubber band by twisting the top.If the smell improves, close the bag and leave it overnight.You can leave the coffee grounds in the bag if you like the smell.The filter should be in a safe place.For an even stronger effect, you can try different coffee flavors.
Step 7: Leave a dryer sheet in the bag to mask unpleasant smells.
Leaving a dryer sheet in the bag at all times can mask any odors that are left over from cleaning and deodorizing.Spread the sheet on the bottom of the bag.When the smell starts to fade, take out the old sheet and add a new one.
Step 8: Check the care tag to make sure the bag is machine-washable.
Gym bags made of nylon are machine-washable.There is a symbol showing a bucket of water on the bag label.You can put this item in the washing machine.Check the label to make sure gym bags and backpacks are machine-washable.Machine-washable handbags are usually not.There is a symbol showing a bucket of water on the tags.Only handwash is what this means.A bucket of water has an X over it.The items are dry cleaned.
Step 9: The bag should be emptied to remove any solid material.
Make sure the bag is empty before putting it in the machine.shake the bag over the garbage can to get rid of it.The odor may be removed by this.Use a handheld vacuum to clean the inside of the bag before washing it.
Step 10: Put the bag in the washing machine.
Don't wash the bag with a load of laundry.They don't get caught if you close the zippers first.Set the machine to a standard wash cycle with warm water and use normal detergent.Before putting the bag in the washing machine, make sure to remove the straps.If you want to, you can wash them separately.
Step 11: To kill the odor, add 2 cup (120 mL) of white vinegar to the rinse cycle.
It has odor-fighting properties.Pour in 2 cup (120 mL) when the machine reaches its rinse cycle to remove odors.It's optional since normal detergent can get rid of odors.
Step 12: Before using the bag, air dry it completely.
To air-dry a bag, place it outside.The inside of the bag needs to be opened so it doesn't smell bad.On a low setting, use a hair dryer.