With fires affecting so many across LA County, nearly everyone is battling smoky-smelling clothes. Whether you were near the flames or miles away, the odor is not only unpleasant but potentially harmful.

At Big Waves Laundromat, we’ve developed an effective protocol to tackle smoke and ash-covered clothes. During this challenging time, we’ve helped hundreds of customers deodorize and refresh their smoky clothes, pillows, and blankets. The best part? We take care of the hard work for you!

Let Us Handle It for You

• Pick-up & Delivery: Place an online order here or call (310)-278-2043. Select the “Smoke Treatment” option at checkout.

• In-store Drop-off: Stop by one of our beautiful locations and let the attendant know you need “Smoke Treatment.”

Our unique process includes a pre-wash soak in an antibacterial and antimicrobial solution, followed by a double wash with an oxygen agent to completely deodorize your items and remove ash particles.

Want to DIY? Here’s How

If you prefer to handle this task on your own, our industrial self-service machines can help you achieve professional results. Follow this step-by-step guide:

• Pre-Treat with Vinegar Spray

  • Spray clothes with a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water. Let them sit for 15–20 minutes before washing.

• Wash Immediately (with Double Time)

  • Don’t let smoky clothes dry before washing. Use a high-spin, front-loading washing machine and select the double-wash option.

• Add Detergent + Boosters

  • Add your usual detergent plus one cup of baking soda or OxiClean for every two loads.

• Use Hot Water

  • Wash with the hottest water your clothes’ care labels allow. Heat helps open fabric fibers to release odors.

• Dry Indoors

  • Avoid outdoor drying to prevent reintroducing smoky odors.

  • Hang clothes inside in a heated, well-ventilated area (at least 70°F).

  • For machine drying, use your usual settings and add dryer sheets for extra freshness.

• Repeat if Necessary

  • If odors persist, don’t worry. Simply repeat the process until your clothes smell fresh again.

Whether you let us handle it or do it yourself, Big Waves Laundromat is here to help you and your clothes recover.

To help those affected by the fires, we’ve extended our fire relief offer through January 31st—offering up to $50 in free laundry services for first responders and neighbors in need. Use code: Fire50. Together, we’ll get through this (This offer is now over).