Buying second-hand clothes is a fantastic way to reduce waste and score great deals. However, sometimes the smell of the clothes can be a bit off-putting. Whether it's musty, smoky, or just lingering from storage, there are several methods you can try to get those clothes smelling fresh again. Here’s how you can tackle the smell of second-hand clothes using common household items and a bit of patience.
1. Vodka: Yes, Vodka!
A surprising but effective solution for getting rid of unwanted odours in second-hand clothes is vodka! The alcohol in vodka helps break down the odour-causing compounds. Simply fill a spritz bottle with cheap vodka (don’t waste the good stuff) and lightly spritz it on the clothes. Hang them in the sun to dry. You may need to repeat this process a couple of times, but the vodka will help eliminate the smell. Plus, while you wait, why not make yourself a drink too?
2. Ammonia: The Strong Stuff
For those stubborn, deeply embedded smells, ammonia is incredibly effective. While it’s a bit harsh and not the most pleasant to work with, it’s an amazing odour remover. Add half to one cup of ammonia to your laundry load along with your regular detergent. Be sure to exit the room quickly after adding the ammonia, as the fumes can be quite strong. This method works particularly well for musty, dog, smoke, and mildew smells.
3. Baking Soda & White Vinegar
Baking soda and white vinegar are two powerhouse ingredients when it comes to removing odours. Add both to your washing machine along with your laundry detergent for a deeper clean. For even better results, soak the fabric in a vinegar-water solution for at least six hours before washing. This method helps eliminate persistent smells and freshens up your clothes effectively.
4. Air Purifiers and Dehumidifiers
If you’ve got a storage area where the clothes have been sitting for a while, the environment may be contributing to the smells. Consider using an air purifier and a dehumidifier. Make sure the size of the dehumidifier matches the space you're working with. Running these devices will help keep the air dry and fresh, preventing musty odours from taking hold. Using fans to circulate the air can also speed up the process.
5. Charcoal Briquettes
An easy and low-maintenance way to remove odours is by using charcoal briquettes. Place a bag of charcoal into a Ziploc bag and leave it slightly open inside a sealed bag with your clothes. The charcoal will absorb the musty smell over time. This process may take a week, but it’s highly effective for stubborn smells.
6. Fresh Air
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. Fresh air can do wonders for second-hand clothes. Hang them outside on a clothesline or place them in a well-ventilated area to let the natural air circulation freshen them up. This method is especially effective for lighter smells and is a great option if you’ve just brought the clothes home.
7. Soaking Synthetic Fabrics
For synthetic fibres like polyester or nylon, soaking them overnight in a water and vinegar solution can help remove smells. These materials tend to hold onto odours, but with a little soak and a machine wash, they’ll come out smelling fresh and new.
Conclusion
Don’t let lingering smells keep you from enjoying your second-hand finds. Whether you use vodka, ammonia, baking soda, or simply let them air out, there are plenty of ways to get the smell out of second-hand clothes. Try a few of these methods and let your wardrobe smell fresh without the high cost of dry cleaning.
