The "outdoor smell" or the scent that you perceive on your clothes and person after spending time outside is typically a combination of various factors. Here are some of the main contributors:
Environmental Odors: When you are outdoors, you are exposed to a wide range of smells from the surrounding environment. This could include natural scents like flowers, plants, trees, grass, and soil, as well as other outdoor elements like water bodies, rocks, and even pollutants in urban areas. These odors can cling to your clothes and body.
Perspiration: Physical activity and exposure to sunlight can cause you to perspire. When sweat mixes with bacteria on your skin, it can produce a distinct odor. This body odor can then transfer to your clothes, amplifying the "outdoor smell."
Absorption of Particles: Your clothes act as a sponge, absorbing tiny particles from the air as you move outside. These particles may include dust, pollen, pollution, or other airborne substances present in the outdoor environment. Over time, these particles can accumulate on your clothing and contribute to the outdoor smell.
Natural Body Odor: Each person has their own unique body odor, which can be influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, and overall health. When you spend time outside, your body odor can interact with the environmental smells, creating a distinct scent.
Fabric Retention: Certain fabrics, especially those made of natural fibers like cotton or linen, have the tendency to retain odors more than synthetic materials. So, even after spending time outside, the smells may linger on your clothes until they are washed.
It's worth noting that the perception of the "outdoor smell" can vary depending on personal sensitivity, the specific environment you were in, and other individual factors.