Crossstitchforum - A FREE forum for Cross Stitchers

Sorry if someone has already asked this. I searched and couldn't find anything. I just got my fabric today that I bought off ebay for the Castles in the Air SAL. The listing didn't mentioned anything about smoke-free/pet-free home. As soon as I opened the envelope, I could smell the smoke. Is pre-washing the fabric the best way to get it out or is there another way? I've got 2 pieces that are 30" x 36". Thanks in advance for any tips!

I think that washing is definitely the best option to get rid of the smell. I to have had this happen although when I got mine I was very upset because the person had stated that is was a smoke free home. Very annoying and when I asked about it she came up with a total lie to cover her words. I would also use a dryer sheet when you are drying the fabric.

Definitely wash it in case there is any oils from the smoke layed down on the fabric. After washing you might air dry it outside too if the weather is cooperating. I had a cushion the puppy threwup on and airing it in the sun shine really took the smell out.

Yeah, I was about to say that I've put things in the air to get rid of smoke smells and that the sun and fresh air really does help.

Thanks everyone. I figured washing it was the best way. When the seller e-mailed me back, she stated that her husband smokes so before she ships out the fabric, she sprays it with Febreze to help with the smell. She has offered to return all of my money including return postage back to her if I want. Unfortunately it's supposed to be rainy here the next few days, but since I have finished the laundry for the week, I'll try to wash it this weekend hopefully.

After you wash it, try a final rinse in dilute white vinegar. That helps with lots and lots of smells. (smilie in leu of gas mask...)

Oh my Fabreez? I would definitely wash it then. I know fabreez is supposed to be safe but I don't know what kind of residuals it leaves and would hate for you to find it causing discoloration after framing.

Hi Busy_B,

I know you have probably already washed and removed the smoke smell but I have only just stumbled back on to the forums and found your post.

I thought I could offer some help as both my Husband and I smoke (really naughty I know, unfortunately I have been told not to give up by my Doctor! I have dangerously low blood pressure and the only thing probably keeping it up is smoking ) I hate the smell and actually think it is a dirty disgusting habit, and it really gets into the fabrics no matter how careful and loud I am about NO SMOKING WHEN I AM STITCHING!

When you wash the fabrics rather than trying to cover up the smell try an old trick for removing it, wash it in warm water with Bicarbonate of Soda in the water. It is fantastic at removing smells, though make sure that you rinse it thoroughly. I havent had any problems with it but even so you may want to do the whole test patch thing first. So far its saved me from baby sick in the carpet, cat sick in the carpet and even a cat urine incident that we dont talk about Generally they are all smells that tend to 'linger' but Bicarbonate seems to work, though it doesnt leave it smelling all flowery and pretty its a good start for just helping to remove the offending odour prior to a gentle soapy wash.

Hope this helps
Carla

i was just going to say baking soda.i had to do this..put the fabric in a ziploc bag..folded if need be..sprinkle bakins soda in the bag..about 1/2 cup for that size of fabric..seal..toss to coat (sounds like i'm cooking..lol) and let sit for a day or so..then open the bag and smell..if u can still smell..dump out the baking soda..repeat.
then wash in cold water w/ mild soap as you would normally..should work

So true Gelflin, Bicarbonate of Soda is almost magical at getting rid of smells
One of my sons had a condition as a baby that meant he projectile vomited after most feeds, it was a life saver, we even used it 'shake and vac' style on the carpet

Thanks everyone! I'll have to keep that one in mind. I ended up sewing the edges and putting it in the washing machine on gentle. I have a fabric safe laundry Febreze that doesn't leave a residue that I use for washing DH's work clothes since his dad smokes and his clothes reek of it when he comes home.