Outdoor Blog

How to Get Campfire Smell Out of Your Clothes for Good

Published

5 years ago

February 14, 2020

Along with gazing at the night stars the most romantic part about camping is listening to the flames cackle around the campfire. Nothing is better than kicking back at your campsite after a long day of pitching your tent and hiking. Cracking open a cold one, eating some desserts, sharing jokes and stories with your friends. It really is the essence of why we love camping with our friends.

Then when the sunrises you pack up your tent and head off home. You’ll begin to notice on the drive back that there is a smell of smoke that has clung to your clothes. It’s not a bad smell. Unlike cigarettes, the smell of woodsmoke is a comforting smell. Nonetheless, you still don’t want it to hang onto your clothes over the coming days and you’ll want to get rid of it. Read on to find out how to go about this.

Getting that fire going after a long day is the perfect time to kick-back with friends.

What causes the smoky scent?

Before we look at how to get the campfire smoke smell out of your clothes let’s take a look at what causes this smell to be so strong and why the smell clings. If you’ve made a campfire before you’ll know that fire requires three things to stay alive – oxygen fuel and heat. If you take away one of these then the fire dies. When all three of these combine to form a fire that fire then produces smoke which is a combination of particles and gases that are released from the fuel as it burns.

The particles contained within woodsmoke consists of nitrogen, cellulose, aldehydes, and traces of metals. During the combustion process, not all of these chemicals shall completely breakdown into tiny molecules and vanish which is why the smoke is visible. The smoky campfire odor, consisting of organic compounds, will then set itself upon your clothing, resulting in the smell sticking to you. You may have some concerns about all of these particles floating in the atmosphere, but it is harmless unless you are obviously making an effort to constantly breathe it in.

There are a couple of ways to try and avoid your campfire producing so much smoke and thus it could save you the hassle of having to thoroughly clean your clothes. The best way to light a campfire is to use dry wood. It burns easier and because it burns easier less energy is required to burn the fuel, resulting in less smoke. If you use wet or green firewood this will produce more smoke as more energy is required to burn this. So if you can, find some dry firewood or take some along with you.

The best way to not have to get rid of the smell of smoke from your clothes when camping is to not have a campfire at all. It can be almost a necessity if you’re winter camping but if the winter is warm or mild then it is not always required. Some of us like to cook some delicious campfire meals. This can be done on a camping stove, however. Camping stoves don’t emit huge amounts of fumes like a campfire and are easier to cook on due t being able to have control over the temperature. So if you want to prepare some delicious food and don’t want to worry about the smell of smoke on your clothes, then perhaps a camping stove is the best option for you.

Ways to get rid of the smell at the campsite

If you are on a multi-day camping trip in the backcountry you may want to get rid of the smell whilst you are still on your trip. Maybe you are on a camping trip and still undertaking regular vacation activities. Restaurants, bars, and other leisurely activities are close to or onsite of many camping grounds. If you plan to undertake these then you may not want this smell to follow you around and have opted to get rid of it whilst you are out in the sticks. There are a few techniques on how to go about this. Including using alcohol, lemon juice and plain old hanging them out to dry. Let’s take a closer look at the campsite wash methods.

1: Using alcohol to get campfire smell out of your clothes

Alcohol is a multi-use tool. Although it’s best enjoyed in a glass around a campfire you can also put it to use as a cleaner. The way in which this works is that when alcohol is heated up it will release the smell from any fabric or material it has soaked itself into. This is the same way that perfumes work. When you release it into a spray for it sticks to your skin and clothes releasing its odors.

To undertake this on your campsite you will need an alcoholic spirit, warm clean water, and a spray bottle. A bottle of vodka that you took on your trip is ideal for this – please don’t waste a nice bottle of scotch! Mix a little bit of the alcoholic spirit with warm water in the spray bottle. Spray a good amount all over your clothes and hang them up to dry in the sunlight. After a few hours, the alcohol spray should have removed the smell and the wind will have blown away any remnants.

2. Using lemon juice to get campfire smoke out of your clothes

If you have a good taste in alcohol then perhaps you don’t have a bottle of vodka at the ready to cleanse your clothes of the smell of campfire smoke. Luckily the citric acid from lemon juice can also get rid of the pungency. You will have probably noticed that many household cleaning sprays are lemon-scented as the acid in the citrus is excellent for clearing out bad odors. Lemon juice is also great to use on the rest of your camping kit such as your tent and sleeping bag.

To undertake this method of cleaning you will need a lemon or lime, and just as in the alcohol technique, clean, warm water, and a spray bottle. Squeeze out the juice from the lemon into the bottle and fill the rest with the warm water. Shake the bottle well and fully cover your clothes with the lemon spray. Again hang them out to dry for a few hours and your clothes will be fresh and zingy!

3. Leaving them out to dry

If neither alcohol or lemon juice is on hand at your campsite then they can still be freshened up in the fresh air. Simply put some water on them and leave them to hang in the wind. Although it won’t rid your clothes from the smoky smell completely, nonetheless airing them out on a clothes hanger shall be a good help.

Bedding hanging from a clothes line int he woods daytime.

A makeshift laundry line can always be formed when there are trees around.

Getting rid of the smell at home

Not all of us want to be cleaning our clothes when we’re out enjoying our precious time in nature and we’re happy to wait until we’re back home again before cleaning our stuff. Cleaning your clothes at home is more straightforward as you are very likely to have most of the cleaning products in your household cupboards already. Most of us will have a washing machine as well, making the process straightforward. If items such as your jacket are not machine washable then we recommend airing them outside or to take them to the dry cleaners.

1. A basic wash

A lot of the time a basic machine wash in the machine at a high temperature is all it takes to get rid of the smell. We suggest that you try this first and if it does not work then refer to our techniques to carry out this task. Remember to double-check what the maximum temperature for your garments before you wash them at a high heat. Many of us wear woolen garments when camping due to its warmth and its ability to absorb water. However, wool should not be washed at a temperature above 40C as it will shrink it and cause the wool to deteriorate.

2. White vinegar

If a basic wash does not work then our next suggestion is to use vinegar to rid your clothes of the smell of campfire smoke. To do this, add half a cup of white vinegar with your laundry detergent. This mixture shall clean your clothes and remove all of the odors from the garments. This technique is best to be implemented if it’s a mild smell coming from your clothes.

If the smell is stronger then you can still use white vinegar but with a different technique. Run a bath of hot water and add a cup measurement of white vinegar and laundry detergent. Put your clothes into the tub and make sure that they are submerged. Allow them to soak in the water for a few hours and then put them in the washing machine for a regular wash and dry. If you notice that the smell is still present then give them another spin in the machine and perhaps put half a cup of vinegar in with the detergent.

3. Baking soda

Baking soda is also appropriate for this task. Baking soda is an alkaline, multi-use white powder that you will likely have stored in a cupboard in your kitchen. It’s an extremely useful item to have and is great for getting rid of stains, stickiness and smells from various items in general. Just like with the first white vinegar technique, add half of a cup of baking soda into your washing machine along with the regular detergent.

Be careful as to not to clean woolen garments or silk with baking soda as these materials can be deteriorated by baking soda. Instead, use white vinegar on these types of garments.

4. Enzyme cleaner

Enzyme cleaner is also a useful product for removing odors. If you have a cat or dog at home then there’s a good chance you have a bottle of this in your cleaning cupboard. Enzyme cleaners are not only designed to get rid of stains and to sanitize but to also get rid of odors. This is why many pet owners use them. When an animal uses the floor for the bathroom then they are likely to return to do it again because their scent is there. By using an enzyme cleaner this can break their young pet’s habit of returning to the same spot over and over again.

To clean your smoky clothes run a hot bath and pour in some enzyme cleaner. Place your clothes inside the tub and make sure that they are submerged in the bathwater. After you have left them to soak for a few hours take them out of the tub and put them in your washing machine for a regular wash. Because enzyme detergent is specifically designed to remove odors from your clothes this means that this is almost a sure-fire way to get the campfire smell out of your clothes for good.

How to dry clean the campfire smoke out of your clothes

Most of us will often take clothes to the laundrette if they need to be dry cleaned. If your clothes are not suitable for a washing machine or hot water then there is a dry cleaning method for getting the smell of campfire smoke out of your clothes. The first step is to put the clothes in a zip-close bag or a large plastic bag that can be tied shut. Once you have a bag, put dryer sheets into the bag. These are extremely cheap to buy and 1-2 sheets per clothing item should suffice in getting the smell of campfire smoke out of your clothes.

Dryer sheets are a great way to freshen up your clothes weather or not they are full of campfire smoke. These cause your clothes to have fewer wrinkles have less static reactions, stop things clinging to the fabric and keep your clothing soft. Additionally, they give your clothing a fresh, outdoor scenting. Be careful to not leave the dryer sheets in the bag for too long as they

Can stain your clothing if they are left next to them for too long

Once you have placed your clothes in the bag then seal the bag so that it is airtight. The clothes should be left in the bag for several days. The longer they are in, the more the smell of the campfire smoke shall disappear. You should check for the smell of campfire smoke every day and replace the dryer sheets every second day.

As we spoke about before, baking soda is perhaps the most used household item for getting rid of odors. Baking soda can also be used in the dry cleaning process. Bi-carbonate soda can be used either alongside or instead of the dryer sheets. To use baking soda in the dry cleaning process place one tablespoon of the powder into the bag per 1-2 items of clothing.

Once the clothes are in, shake the bake thoroughly so that the powder is spread throughout it. Again the clothes must be left in the bag for several days. Like with the dryer sheets make sure that you replace any leftover bicarbonate soda every couple of days. Do this by shaking out the excess baking soda outside and putting fresh soda in.

Taking your non-machine clothes to the dry cleaners or doing it yourself at home shall also rid your clothes of the smokey scent.

Final Verdict:

All of us love to go camping in the backcountry and all of us love to light campfires. There’s something in our DNA that gives us a thrill when we spark the tinder and get the flames roaring. From then on we’re constantly monitoring it and replenishing it with firewood as to not let it burn out until the time comes that it must be extinguished. This obsession with the licking flames means that the next day you are sometimes left wondering why you let yourself get so enthusiastic about getting the fire as big as possible, causing more smoke to accumulate into the fabric of your clothes.

It’s not the end of the world though and the smell of the smoke on your clothes does not result in permanent damage. With a little bit of patience and perseverance, it is very straightforward to remove the smell of campfire smoke. All that is required are household products such as white vinegar and baking soda that you are bound to have in your home. Beyond this, it’s a basic machine wash that you would have to do to your clothes anyway. So, fear not, the smell shall be removed!

Bonus tip: Check out the ways in which you can minimize the amount of smoke coming from your campfire!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

3 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

4 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

6 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.