Whether you’re a vintage fashion lover or a savvy bargain hunter, rescuing second-hand treasures from the clutches of unwanted odours is a skill every thrifter should have in their arsenal. With these odour-busting techniques from Molly Maid, you can confidently navigate the world of second-hand fashion, ensuring your finds are as fresh as they are fabulous.
Sunshine and Air
Sunlight and fresh air work wonders in reducing odours. You don’t need a backyard clothesline or a dryer rack on a condo balcony, an open window will do! An overnight hang, near air flow will work wonders, and if you can, hang the pieces outside on a sunny day for extra effect.
Baking Soda Saviour
Baking soda is a powerhouse when it comes to deodorizing. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on your thrifted fashion finds, paying special attention to any stinky spots. Leave it to sit for a few hours or even overnight, then shake, brush, or vacuum it off.
Ice Cold Magic
For clothing that’s too delicate to wash, consider the freezer method. Place the items in a sealable bag and put them in the freezer overnight. The cold temperature can help kill odour-causing bacteria.
Vinegar Soak
A vinegar solution can be a game-changer. Mix one part white vinegar with three parts water, and soak your thrifted pieces for 30 minutes. Afterward, rinse them thoroughly, and the vinegar scent will dissipate as it dries.
Charcoal Odour Absorbers
Charcoal is another fantastic natural deodorizer. Place activated charcoal bags or sachets (found at your local hardware store or on Amazon.ca (LINK TO Bamboo Charcoal Air Fresheners https://a.co/d/47AiDC7) in your closet or drawers to keep your thrifted clothing fresh. These are also reusable, making them an eco-friendly option.
Essential Oils
Infuse a delightful fragrance into your clothing with essential oils. Add a few drops to a cloth or cotton ball and place it in your wardrobe. Lavender, citrus, and eucalyptus oils work well for this purpose.
Washing with Care
For machine-washable items, consider a gentle, odour-neutralizing detergent, like Oxyclean Odour Blasters. Adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle can be effective, too.
Seek Professional Help
If the stink persists, don’t hesitate to take your garments to a professional cleaner. They have the expertise and tools to handle even the most stubborn odors.
