Odor Removal from a Padded Jacket Using a Clothing Care System

Clothing absorbs various odors from the human body and environment, diminishing its aesthetic and hygienic properties. These odors are perceived as unsanitary, increasing demand for successful deodorization methods. This study aims to explore effective deodorization methods using a garment care machine. When garments were exposed to air, ammonia was effectively removed. However, when garments were left untreated inside the machine, air circulation was restricted, resulting in slower deodorization rates. Additional deodorization experiments were conducted using fans, steam, and mechanical action. Fans demonstrated effective deodorization by promoting air circulation and removing hydrophilic odor substances adsorbed or absorbed by the fibers. Steam showed some effectiveness on outer polyester fabrics but reacted with the natural oils in goose down samples, generating new unpleasant odors. Mechanical action alone yielded minimal deodorization effects and was deemed ineffective as a standalone method. The most effective deodorization performance was achieved within a relatively short treatment time when fan, steam, and mechanical action were applied concurrently. The results of this study provide fundamental insights into sustainable garment care and may contribute to the advancement of deodorization technology and the extension of garment lifespan.