Is this true: The sun deodorizes fabrics?

Question

Somewhere (maybe a housekeeping magazine) I read a tip that the sun outside deodorizes fabrics. It encouraged people to put pillows, cushions, etc. outside in the sun to air them out but also kill germs/deodorize. I am curious how much truth there is to this. I am also spraying everything with Febreze anti-allergen. It's for stuff you can't necessarily wash.

Answer 1

It is absolutely true....
I line dry everything, and when the kids were in diapers, the laundered diapers always spent an entire day on the line. Not only did it kill all the odors, but the sun bleached the cotton white.

Every summer, we haul seat cushions, pillows, and other non-washable textiles outside for a thorough airing. It's good for the environment, good for the textiles, and is free :)

Answer 2

In old days they used the sun to disinfect, and remove stains. I imagine the fresh air outside would help with the odors. However, we also know now that the sun bleaches colors. So set your pillows outside for a good airing, but don't forget them.

Answer 3

Fresh air and sunshine will definitely make your pillows, etc smell better. Don't think it will kill any germs, but will smell fresh and cleaner. If you have room put up a clothes line and hang your laundry - saves energy, too.