Hi Earthy,
Have you tried using Borax as an additive? It works well in getting out the sour smell in my laundry when I've forgotten to move the clothes out of the washer. I usually use Tide HE for a front loader. Tried a "free and clear" detergent recently, and everything smelled sour, even with a fragrant softener. My DH finally asked me to go back to the chemicals.

Right now I am trying Charlie's Soap based on rec. on this forum. I am really pleased!!! I'm not using softener nor dryer sheets and my clothes smell great. Very fresh, no fake smells and not sour! And another thing I've noticed, which I can't explain, is that the clothes seem to dry quicker.

earthie
the laundry forum has this same exact thread..type in "smelly jeans' in the search bar and it will come up.
Ree

Funny, I've tried that a couple of times, but your search must be better than mine...never found it.

Anyway, since I wrote this, I've been researching a bit and found these recommendations:

* add 2 cans of coca cola to the wash
* make sure detergent doesn't contain phosphates which cause fabrics to hold odor
* try 20 mule team borax
* use Dreft

The dreft thing makes sense to me, as it has traditionally been used to clean and deoderize smelly diapers...so hey, may give that a try.

The coke thing just sounds weird. But I may try it.

If your workout cloths are made of synthetic fiber,like those used in Under Armour or Dri-fit,then you might want to use a detergent (supposedly) designed for them. Here are some I've found:

Win Sport Detergent

Sport-Wash Detergent

Sport Suds Detergent

Personally, I think Twenty Mule-Team Borax laundry additive will take care of the problem.

I find that a scoop of oxy clean neutralizes all odors that I have encountered.
Try putting fewer items in your washer....perhaps you are overloading it....jeans are cotton and should wash clean every time.
Linda C

I also recommend OxyClean. I use it whenever I wash something "smelly".

I happened to be the one to start the smelly jeans thread in the laundry forum. I am happy to say that after switching to Charlies Soap and after several (maybe 10) washes there is no more smell and even when I wear the jeans the smell does not return.

groomingdale
thanks for the up date, I am glad Charlies worked well for you! Don't ya just love the stuff? (smile)
Ree

Hi there! I use the oxyclean spray (pre-treat stuff) I spray all my husband's work jeans (grease, dirt, blood, etc.) and everything comes out...I mean everything...even smelly stuff :-)

I put about a cup or more of white vinegar in every rinse cycle for all my clothes, sheets, pet bedding, etc. Makes lint fall off and makes everything soft, free from detergent residue and retains colors in fabrics.

I second white vinegar. I use it in every load of laundry for the above reasons, and to eliminate odors! I first tried it with sour rags and was amazed they came out smelling perfectly fresh. It does the same for a load of laundry that was left in the washer. No odors what so ever. I don't use fabric softener or dryer sheets anymore. Saves money, and does a much better job!

OK...I'll be trying them all. I hope the cheapest one works the best!