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How to Get Rid of Smell in Clothes Without Washing: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate odors from clothes easily without washing. Discover simple, effective steps using E-Cloth for fresh, clean-smelling garments.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Clothes Without Washing

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Essential oil (such as lavender or eucalyptus)
- Spray bottle

Airing It Out

Hang your clothes outside in fresh air and sunlight for at least 1-2 hours. Fresh air helps disperse odor-causing particles.

Baking Soda Boost

Lay the garment flat and sprinkle a light dusting of baking soda over the fabric, concentrating on areas with strong odors.
Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then gently shake or brush off the powder.

White Vinegar Spray

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Lightly mist the inside of the fabric (do a spot test first on delicate materials) without saturating. Allow time to air dry. Vinegar neutralizes odors naturally.

Fabric Freshening Mist

Create a homemade spray by combining water, a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or eucalyptus), and a splash of vodka (optional – it aids in odor reduction and evaporates quickly).
Spritz evenly across the garment and let it dry fully before wearing.

Steaming Method

If you have a handheld steamer, use it on your clothes. The steam can help lift away odor molecules without a full wash.
Keep a safe distance to avoid damaging delicate fabrics, and allow the garment to cool and dry properly.

Safety Precautions

Test First: Always do a spot test on a hidden area before applying baking soda, vinegar, or any spray to avoid discoloration or fabric damage.
Ventilation: Use sprays and baking soda in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling particles or fumes.
Sunlight Exposure: Do not leave delicate or colored fabrics in direct sunlight for too long, as this can cause fading.
Essential Oils: Use essential oils sparingly and avoid direct skin contact, as some people may have allergies or sensitivities.
Steamer Safety: Keep steamers away from your skin and follow manufacturer instructions to prevent burns or fabric damage.
Flammability: Do not use vodka or alcohol-based sprays near open flames or heat sources, as they are flammable.
Proper Drying: Ensure clothes are completely dry before wearing or storing to prevent mildew or mold growth.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Clothes Without Washing: Extra Tips

Maintain Proper Air Circulation

Air out your clothes by hanging them outside on a clothesline or in a well-ventilated room. Fresh air naturally disperses odor-causing molecules.
Avoid storing clothes in closed spaces. Open up your closet or use breathable garment bags to prevent smells from building up.

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Use a Fabric Freshening Spray

Create a simple spray by mixing equal parts water and white vinegar. Lightly spritz your clothes and let them dry completely.
If vinegar isn’t your thing, try a few drops of your favorite essential oil in the mix to leave a refreshing scent behind.

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Baking Soda Magic

Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on your clothes. Let it sit for a few hours to absorb unwanted odors.
Brush or shake off the powder thoroughly afterward; it works as a natural deodorizer without washing.

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Freeze to Neutralize Odors

Pop your clothes into a plastic bag and place them in the freezer overnight. The cold temperature helps to kill odor-causing bacteria.
Allow the garments to thaw completely before wearing or storing them to ensure the odor has been neutralized.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Clothes Without Washing

Overusing Harsh Chemicals

Excessive use can damage surfaces and trigger allergies.
Follow dilution guidelines and use the right product for the task to protect finishes.

Skipping Regular Dusting

Neglecting dusting causes buildup that lowers air quality and damages electronics.
Be thorough and dust both visible and hidden areas regularly.

Using Inefficient Cleaning Tools

Old or unsuitable cleaning tools waste time and are less effective.
Update your supplies — microfiber cloths and quality vacuums make cleaning faster and more thorough.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Clothes Without Washing

Frequency for Refreshing Clothes Without a Full Wash

After Each Use (for High-Intensity Activities): If you’ve been sweating or the garment has been in a humid environment (think gym sessions or long commutes in crowded spaces), aim to air it out immediately. A few hours of off-the-body time helps diminish odor buildup before it becomes entrenched.
Every 2–3 Days (for Regular Everyday Wear): For items worn in relatively controlled environments (like office attire or casual wear), let your clothes hang in a ventilated area for a good portion of the day after each use. Rotate pieces so that each has time to “rest” and freshen out, reducing the chances for odors to develop.
Weekly Check (for Items That Retain Subtle Odors): Even if you space out your airing routine, once a week it’s worthwhile to give your garments a deeper “refresh” by hanging them outside or in a very well-ventilated room. This extra step helps prevent any lingering smells from slowly setting in.
Adjust Based on Conditions: In hot, humid weather or during more vigorous activity periods, consider shortening these intervals. On cooler or less active days, you might extend the airing time before re-wearing an item. The key is to prevent the accumulation of sweat and bacteria that cause odors, so let your clothes breathe as often as possible.

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