QUESTION: I stored some clothing in a box that became wet after our basement flooded last spring. I haven't washed the clothing but they really smell. What is the best way to get rid of the stink? Alfred (Springfield, MB)
ANSWER: Before washing the clothing, soak them in hot water and borax. Borax contains no phosphates and no bleach and it is wonderful at zapping hard to handle odours. If you cannot locate borax, use a generous amount of Oxy Clean or tea tree oil and vinegar or baking soda. Adding vinegar to laundry loads is a wonderful idea, but for this particular instance you need to use full-strength vinegar and tea tree oil and soak for at least two hours before laundering. Launder clothing with hot water and heavy-duty detergent.
QUESTION: We have a clothes closet under the stairs in the basement. It has a musty smell in it and I am wondering how to get rid of it. Do you have any suggestions? Dianne, Winnipeg
ANSWER: After cleaning the interior with vinegar, caulk every seam in the closet. Inside the closet hang a moisture absorbing bag such as Damp Rid. Place an open bag of activated charcoal or kitty litter in the closet for several weeks. Instead of air fresheners, it is effective to store an open bar of soap in the closet. Fragrances of soap are mild (depending on the soap) and if the fresh soap smell fades, grate the side of the soap with a knife. The soap will once again freshen the air. Another option is to fill a sock with fresh coffee, close with a rubber band and toss the sock inside the closet. Replace as needed. Or sprinkle a piece of cardboard with cinnamon essential oi and the musty smell will disappear. You may want to consider purchasing a dehumidifier.
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