How To Remove Urine Smell from Elderly Clothing? 5 Tips!

Urine odor can sometimes be a concern, especially with elderly individuals who might face incontinence issues. Over time, if not cleaned properly, the smell can become entrenched in clothing, causing discomfort and embarrassment. 

Fortunately, there are various methods and products available that can effectively combat this issue. Here are five tried-and-true tips and products for removing urine odor from elderly clothing:

5 Practical Ways To Remove Urine Smell from Elderly Clothing In 2023

Here are the top 5 methods to eliminate urine odor from elderly clothing right now:

1. Pre-soaking with Vinegar:

2. Enzymatic Cleaners:

3. Baking Soda:

4. Hydrogen Peroxide:

5. Specialty Laundry Boosters:

1. Pre-soaking with Vinegar:

Vinegar, especially white vinegar, acts as a natural deodorizer and can help break down urine particles that cause odor. Its acidic nature neutralizes the alkalinity of urine stains.

How to Use:

• Fill a basin or tub with cold water.
• Add 1-2 cups of white vinegar, depending on the severity of the odor.
• Immerse the affected clothing in the solution and let it soak for 30 minutes to an hour.
• Wash as usual with detergent afterward.

2. Enzymatic Cleaners:

Enzymatic cleaners contain specific enzymes that target and break down organic materials like urine. They’re especially effective for removing stubborn odors and can be found in pet stores or online.

How to Use:

• Before washing, apply an enzymatic cleaner directly to the affected area of the clothing.
• Let it sit for the duration recommended on the product label (usually about 5-10 minutes).
• Wash as usual.

3. Baking Soda:

Baking soda is a known odor absorber. It neutralizes pH levels and can effectively remove many unwanted scents, including urine.

How to Use:

• Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly on the urine-stained area.
• Let it sit for a few hours or, if possible, overnight.
• Brush off the excess baking soda and launder the clothing as you normally would.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide:

Hydrogen peroxide acts as a disinfectant, and when applied to urine stains, it can help to lift and neutralize the odor.

How to Use:

• Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water.
• Apply the solution directly to the urine-stained area, ensuring it’s well-saturated.
• Let it sit for about 10 minutes, but avoid letting it dry.
• Rinse and then launder as usual.

Note: Hydrogen peroxide can bleach some fabrics, so always do a patch test on an inconspicuous area of the clothing before using it.

5. Specialty Laundry Boosters:

There are several products on the market designed specifically for odor elimination in laundry. Brands like Oxiclean, Nature’s Miracle, and Febreze offer laundry boosters or additives that target urine smells.

How to Use:

• Add the recommended amount of the laundry booster to your regular laundry detergent.
• Wash the clothing according to the garment’s care instructions.

Final Thoughts:

While these methods and products are effective in removing urine odor, always remember to check the care label of any garment before treating it. This will ensure that the fabric remains undamaged. 

Regularly checking on elderly loved ones and addressing incontinence issues with appropriate products like absorbent underwear or pads can also help minimize such occurrences.