On Thursday, June 2, 2011 7:56:01 AM UTC-7, Steve Barker wrote:
> I know a bit off topic for this group, but i know there are
> knowledgeable people here.
>
> Ok, so i neglect a vacant house all winter and guess what? The sumps
> fail. So now i have many sterlite tubs full of clothes (that my wife
> would prefer to salvage some of) that smell like stagnant water.
Sounds like organic stuff (mildew, algae?); so, oxidizers will
work.
Chlorine bleach, hydrogen peroxide, washing soda (already
part of most detergents), and oxalic acid all have some effect.
I'd try 'em all (but the oxalic doesn't work next to iron, you'll
have to soak in plastic buckets rather than use a washing machine).
An enzyme presoak might also be useful.
The old-fashioned clothesline in the open air with sunlight is also
a good idea.