Have you ever picked up a fantastic thrift store bargain, only to realize it comes with that unmistakable ‘thrift store smell’ when you get it home? Or perhaps, after a sweaty workout, your clothes seem to hold onto that musty, sweaty scent. One thing’s clear: these odors don’t tend to disappear on their own. If you’re eager to part ways with these bad odors, here are some reliable methods to freshen up your clothes.
Wash it
Since thrifted items have been previously owned, they have likely experienced various environments, including workspaces and homes. These environments cause residues from the surroundings to embed into the fabric. Wash the item the same way you would wash your regular clothes. Follow the care instructions first to ensure the item is washable. Use your favorite detergent and give the item a good wash by machine or hand.
Take it Outside
Sometimes your clothes need to be aired out. Take it outside and allow it to get some sunlight and breeze. The sun has natural deodorizing properties that can help eliminate odors. Leave the item out for a few hours and see what happens. The item likely needs some sun and air to breathe.
Vinegar Spray
Grab a spray bottle and add water and white vinegar. Spray your clothes and let it air dry. Try not to overspray, but allow the natural mist to absorb into the item. The vinegar will help to eliminate the odor and remove the musty smell from clothes.
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Baking Soda
Sprinkle the baking soda inside or on top of the item. Place the item in a plastic bag and knot it. Let it sit overnight. The baking soda will absorb the odor and get the smell out of clothes.
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Soak it
For stronger odors and smells, leave the item to soak in the washing machine or bucket of water overnight. Use baking soda and vinegar as an alternative to detergent, and then wash it regularly. This should help to eliminate the smell.
Essential Oil Spray
Whip up your own fabric freshener spray using water and a few drops of your favorite essential oils. Essential oils have many benefits, including adding wonderful scents that can be helpful to your clothes.
Just spritz the essential oil mix onto your clothes, and let the aroma work its magic by neutralizing any unwanted odors. Essential oils such as lavender, tea tree oil, peppermint, and eucalyptus are great for removing odor from clothes and neutralizing the odor.
Lemon Juice
Like vinegar, lemon juice can help oust that thrift store smell from your clothes. Begin by diluting fresh lemon juice with an equal amount of water or squeeze the lemon juice directly into the washing machine. Allow the lemon to permeate the fabric.
The acidic properties of lemon juice work wonders in neutralizing odors, leaving behind a refreshing citrus scent revitalizing your clothes.
Spray With Vodka
Vodka holds a surprising secret: it’s a true fighter against unpleasant odors. Just grab yourself a spray bottle and fill it with some cheap vodka. Spritz it onto clothes. As the alcohol swiftly evaporates, it carries away those pesky odors, revitalizing your clothes.
Wool Dryer Balls
Wood dryer balls are an eco-friendly, natural alternative to fabric softeners and dryer sheets. While these dryer balls are meant to keep laundry from clumping in the dryer and boost the drying process, they also make your clothes smell better. This is possible because the dryer balls have the ability to absorb moisture and odor in the dryer.
9 Secret Ways to Whiten Your Laundry Without Bleach
Keeping white clothes looking clean and bright can be a bit of a challenge. Sweat, dirt, and body oils can cause stains, and colors from other clothes can gradually seep in, making your whites lose their original color. Even if you know how to prevent color transfer while washing, some fading is bound to happen. But don’t worry; there are other ways to brighten your laundry without using bleach. Here are nine methods to consider before reaching for the bleach.
9 Secret Ways to Whiten Your Laundry Without Bleach
10 Uses for Dryer Sheets You Probably Didn’t Know About (And It’s Not Laundry)
Dryer sheets have earned their place as a laundry room essential, adding fresh scent and reducing static in our clothes. They’re appreciated for making laundry softer and more fragrant. But these sheets offer more than just laundry benefits. In fact, they can be quite handy around the house. Here are ten ways you use laundry sheets for more than just laundry.
10 Uses for Dryer Sheets You Probably Didn’t Know About (And It’s Not Laundry)
Thrift Store Shopping Hacks That Can Save You a Ton of Money
There’s a secret world of thrift store hacks waiting to be revealed – tricks that will take your savings game to a whole new level and leave you with much more money in your pocket. If you’re eager to uncover even more ways to save big on your thrifting adventures, you’re in for a treat! These thrift store hacks are a must-try – and trust, they’re the real deal, even for the savviest shopper out there.
Thrift Store Shopping Hacks That Can Save You a Ton of Money
25 Online Thrift Stores for the Best Second-Hand Shopping
Thrift shopping has expanded beyond department stores, garage sales, and consignment shops. Many thrift stores now offer a convenient way to shop their items online. From retro dresses and vintage accessories to timeless denim and statement stand-out pieces, here are some of the best online thrift stores to help keep your wardrobe fresh and unique.
25 Online Thrift Stores for the Best Second Hand Shopping
10 Items You Should Avoid Buying Used
Opting for secondhand shopping at thrift stores and garage sales can help you save money. However, buying items that are used doesn’t always prove beneficial. In fact, there’s a potential for certain used items to carry health or safety implications, and others might not be in good condition. Here are ten items that you should avoid buying used.
10 Items You Should Avoid Buying Used
Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.
