Getting allergens out of clothes?

Avatar for triptakers
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-25-2003
Getting allergens out of clothes?
4
Tue, 07-27-2004 - 9:33am
Hey ladies! I hope you don't mind a non-cat owner asking a question... I'm just crossing my fingers that since you guys are cat owners, you might have suggestions for me.

I have just gotten some fabulous hand-me-over clothes from my SIL. They fit beautifully, and they're stuff like Ann Taylor and Earl Jeans!

Problem? They came from a cat-full house (and from being in the house for just a second, I'm thinking they weren't totally loving the litter box, if you KWIM.)

So anyway, I tried washing as usual and then running thru the dryer (thinking that might take out some of the allergens). I tried baking soda and a vinegar rinse. I tried letting them dry outside in the breeze. I even used the advice of the girls at the allergies board and FROZE some garments, lol. I'm at a loss - the smell is gone, but I just had to take off a pair of twice-washed jeans because I was sneezing & my eyes started itching & running.

And then of course we've got the silk and rayon dry clean onlys. Sigh. Dryel, no luck. Dry cleaning, no luck. Even handwashing and line drying several times didn't do it.

I know I could just pass the stuff on to a consignment store or Goodwill, but now I'm at the warped "I'M GOING TO WIN THIS BATTLE" stage... but... I don't think I can win...

Is there any sort of washing stuff that's aimed specifically at removing pet allergens? Or do you guys know any "secrets"?

Thanks so much!






iVillage Member
Registered: 12-01-2003
Tue, 07-27-2004 - 10:17am
Boy I have no idea,hope some one knows! You must really be allergic!!!

Avatar for cl_lcni
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Tue, 07-27-2004 - 2:33pm

Hi Triptaker.


Photobucket

Avatar for triptakers
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-25-2003
Tue, 07-27-2004 - 3:38pm
Hey, thanks! That's a good idea! Now that you mention it, I remember there was a shampoo I used to wash my dog with that made her less of an allergy-provoker. Wonder if they have a similar one for cats - I could just wash the clothes in that..

Anyone know of anything like that, and where I'd find it?

Thanks!






Avatar for cl_lcni
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Wed, 07-28-2004 - 12:44pm

That may work.


Photobucket