Tag Archives: odor removal

When Underarm Odor Won’t Go Away

Posted on by Jackie
underarm odor in clothes
04 Feb

You wash your clothes.
They come out of the dryer smelling fine.
Then you put on a shirt, start moving, and suddenly the odor is back. 

If you’re dealing with underarm odor in clothes that won’t stay fresh, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common and frustrating laundry problems, especially with activewear and everyday tops worn close to the skin.

The issue usually isn’t hygiene.

It’s what’s happening inside the fabric fibers.  

Why Underarm Odor in Clothes Is So Hard to Fix    

Sweat itself doesn’t smell. Odor forms when sweat mixes with bacteria and body oils on your skin, which is why body odor is actually caused by bacteria breaking down sweat rather than sweat alone (according to the Cleveland Clinic).

Over time, the underarm areas absorb:

  • Body oils
  • Sweat residue
  • Deodorant and antiperspirant buildup
  • Bacteria that thrive in warm, damp environments

Even after washing, small amounts of this residue can remain trapped in the fibers. As soon as the fabric warms up again, the odor reappears.

That’s why underarm odor clothes often smell clean at first, then develop odor again during wear.  

Why Activewear Makes It Worse    

Athletic clothing is designed to manage moisture, but that same design can make odor harder to eliminate. 

Many activewear fabrics:

  • Hold onto oils more than natural fibers
  • Trap bacteria deep inside the weave
  • Resist full odor removal with standard washing

As a result, underarm odor in clothes is especially common with workout shirts, performance fabrics, and garments worn during high activity.   

What Actually Helps Remove Underarm Odor from Clothes    

Getting rid of persistent odor isn’t about masking smells. It’s about breaking the cycle that allows odor to return. 

Here are solutions that actually help:

1. Wash sweat-prone clothing soon after wearing
Letting sweaty clothes sit gives bacteria time to multiply and bond with fabric fibers. Even placing garments in a breathable laundry basket instead of a gym bag can help reduce odor buildup. 

2. Use less detergent, not more
Too much detergent often leaves residue behind. That residue traps oils and bacteria, making clothes smell of underarm odor again faster instead of staying fresh. 

3. Skip fabric softener on odor-prone items
Fabric softeners coat fibers to create softness, but that coating can seal in odor-causing buildup. Activewear and everyday tops worn close to the skin are better without it. 

4. Turn garments inside out before washing
Underarm buildup sits on the inside of clothing. Turning garments inside out helps water and detergent reach the areas that need the most attention. 

5. Don’t use heat to “fix” odor
High heat doesn’t remove odor. If the residue is still present, heat can actually set smells into the fabric, making them harder to remove later. 

6. Ensure clothes are fully dry before storing
Even slight dampness can reactivate bacteria. Sweat-prone clothing should be completely dry before folding or hanging. 

7. Know when home washing isn’t enough
If underarm odor persists after multiple washes, oils and bacteria are likely trapped deep in the fibers. Repeating the same routine usually leads to frustration instead of results. 

Professional cleaning can break down buildup that home washing can’t reach, without damaging the fabric.   

When Professional Care Makes the Difference

Professional cleaning works at the fiber level, not just the surface. 

It helps:

  • Remove embedded oils and residue
  • Neutralize odor-causing bacteria
  • Restore breathability to fabrics
  • Extend the life of garments that still look good

Instead of replacing clothes that otherwise fit and feel fine, proper care can give them a true reset.   

A Smarter Way to Handle Odor in Clothes    

Persistent underarm odor doesn’t mean your clothes are ruined. It usually means they need deeper care than home washing can provide.

At Kona Cleaners, we help remove what you can’t see, so your clothes stay comfortable, fresh, and wearable longer.

If the odor keeps coming back, bring your garments in or schedule a pickup. We’re happy to help.

How Often Should You Clean Your Comforters?

Posted on by Jackie
How Often Should You Clean Your Comforter?
20 Nov

So, Really, How Often Should You Clean Your Comforters?

Let’s be honest—when was the last time your comforter got some serious TLC? If you’re scratching your head trying to remember, it might be time for a friendly nudge. Comforters are like the unsung heroes of our beds.

We rely on them for warmth, comfort, and the occasional impromptu Netflix blanket fort, but they rarely get the love they deserve. So, how often should you clean your comforters? Let’s take a dive into this blog and uncover this mystery.

Comforter TLC 101: The Magic Number

For most people, taking your comforter to the dry cleaners three to four times a year is the golden rule. That’s once every season, and it’s just enough to keep things fresh (oops, I mean clean!) without overdoing it. However, there are some exceptions to this rule:

  • Pet Owners: If you share your bed with your furry friends, aim for more frequent cleanings—about four times a year or more. Pets add a little extra “love” (read: hair, dander, and who-knows-what-else) that your comforter could do without.
  • Allergy Sufferers: If seasonal sniffles are your nemesis, keeping your comforter pristine can make a world of difference. Trust me, your sinuses will thank you!
  • Sweaty Sleepers: If you find yourself waking up feeling like you just ran a marathon in your dreams, bump up your dry cleaning game. Sweat can break down the fibers of your comforter and create the perfect breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria.

Why Not DIY?

Sure, you might be tempted to throw that massive comforter into your washing machine and call it a day, but imagine cramming your comforter in, pushing down with all your might, praying the door actually shuts. If it does close, you might hear some suspicious noises during the wash cycle. Next thing you know, your machine is on strike, and you’re googling “washing machine repair” at 2 a.m. No one wants that!

Most home washing machines simply aren’t built to handle the bulk of a big comforter. Overloading can damage your machine’s motor or drum, leading to expensive repairs—or even a new machine. Not worth it!

The Kona Cleaners Difference

Why trust Kona Cleaners with your comforter? Here’s what sets us apart:

  1. Deep Cleaning, No Corners Cut: At Kona Cleaners, we use state-of-the-art equipment specifically designed for handling bulky comforters, duvets, and quilts. Our gentle yet effective cleaning solutions dive deep into thick fabrics to remove all the hidden dirt and allergens that a standard home wash can’t touch.
  2. Protecting Your Investment: We know your bedding is an investment, and at Kona Cleaners, we treat it as such. Regular professional cleanings help maintain your comforter’s fabric, keep the filling fluffy, and extend its lifespan. Think of it as a spa day for your sleep sanctuary—preventive care that ensures long-term comfort.
  3. Odor Removal: Stubborn smells, be gone! Whether it’s pet odor, sweat, or that mysterious musty scent that creeps in over time, Kona Cleaners has the expertise to bring back that fresh, just-like-new smell to your comforter.
  4. No Shrinking or Warping: You won’t find any post-wash surprises here. Kona Cleaners ensures your bedding keeps its shape and size, avoiding the dreaded dryer shrinkage. That means your comforter stays just as cozy and comfortable as the day you bought it—no toddler-sized mishaps included!

So, How Often Is “Too Often”?

If you’re starting to wonder whether you’re going overboard with your cleaning, rest assured that three to four times a year is just right for most comforters. If you’re dealing with special circumstances like pets, allergies, or sweat, don’t be afraid to up the number. Your comforter can handle it, and your nights will be better for it.

Final Thoughts

Remember, a clean comforter isn’t just about looking nice (although that’s a bonus!). It’s about better sleep, fewer allergies, and a touch of luxury. So, indulge (wink). Go ahead and treat your comforter to a spa day at our dry cleaners. It works hard for you, after all!

And next time you’re tempted to shove that thing into your home washer, just ask yourself, “Is my washing machine ready for this battle?” Chances are, the answer is no. Save yourself the headache and keep your comforter—and your appliances—happy.

Ready to give your comforter the care it deserves? Bring it to Kona Cleaners, and we’ll have it back to you fresh and clean. Your bed will thank you!