Home | Getting Rid of Smells | How to Get Rid of Smell in Purse or Bag: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Get Rid of Smell in Purse or Bag: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate odors from your purse or bag easily with this simple, effective E-Cloth step-by-step guide. Freshness made easy.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Purse or Bag

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Baking soda
- Mild soap
- Soft brush
- Activated charcoal

Empty and Shake It Out

Remove all items from your purse or bag. Check pockets, compartments, and any small openings.
Turn the bag upside down and gently shake it to dislodge any loose debris or particles.

Brush Off Crumbs and Dust

Use a soft brush or clean, dry cloth to wipe away any crumbs, lint, or dust from both the inside and outside.

Spot Clean Stains

Dampen a clean cloth with lukewarm water and a mild soap solution.
Gently wipe any stained areas inside the bag, taking care not to saturate the material.
If the bag has fabric lining, pat it lightly and follow up with a dry cloth to avoid excess moisture.

Deodorize With Baking Soda

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside the empty bag, ensuring it reaches all corners.
Close the bag and shake it gently so the powder evenly coats the interior.
Let it sit for several hours or overnight to absorb any odors.
Afterward, shake out all the baking soda thoroughly.

Use Activated Charcoal

If the smell lingers, place a small bag of activated charcoal (or a charcoal odor absorber) inside the purse.
Seal it and allow it to sit for a day or two to neutralize persistent odors.

Air It Out

Place your bag in a well-ventilated area or near an open window for several hours.
The fresh air will help remove any remaining smells naturally.

Final Check

Give your bag a final sniff. If any odor remains, repeat the deodorizing steps as needed.
Once satisfied, allow the bag to stay open for a bit more to ensure it’s completely fresh before putting it back into regular use.

Safety Precautions

Test cleaning solutions on a small, hidden area first to ensure they do not damage or discolor the material.
Avoid harsh chemicals (like bleach or strong detergents) as they can ruin fabric, leather, or synthetic materials.
Do not oversaturate the bag with water or cleaning solutions—excess moisture can cause mold, mildew, or warping.
Use baking soda and activated charcoal safely: keep them away from children and pets, and avoid inhaling the powders directly.
Ensure the bag is completely dry before storing or using it again to prevent odor recurrence and material damage.
Ventilate the area where you clean and air out the bag to avoid inhaling any lingering odors or cleaning fumes.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Purse or Bag: Extra Tips

Regular Maintenance is a Must

Empty your purse frequently to remove food wrappers, receipts, and miscellaneous clutter.
Wipe down both the interior and exterior with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution.
Allow the purse to air out by leaving it open in a well-ventilated area.

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Use Natural Deodorizers

Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside your bag to absorb odors.
Place a sachet of activated charcoal in an unused pocket to neutralize smells.
Refresh the interior with a fabric-safe essential oil spray, but use sparingly.

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Deep Clean for Stubborn Odors

Spot-clean any stains with a gentle fabric cleaner; test on a small area first.
Use a soft brush to work the cleaner into the fabric without damaging it.
Ensure the bag is completely dry by leaving it in a warm, breezy spot before storing.

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Prevent Future Odor Buildup

Store your purse in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture buildup.
Regularly organize and dispose of unnecessary items that can trap odors.
Rotate or change any deodorizers used to prevent them from becoming stale over time.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Purse or Bag

Skipping the Decluttering Step

Many people jump straight to cleaning without removing clutter, making it harder to access surfaces and lessening the impact of their cleaning efforts.
Leaving obstacles in place can lead to incomplete cleaning and wasted time.
Always clear surfaces and tidy up before you start cleaning to maximize efficiency.

Mixing Cleaning Products Unsafely

Combining household cleaners (like bleach and ammonia) can create dangerous fumes and cause health risks.
Mixing products can also reduce their effectiveness and ruin surfaces.
Read labels carefully and stick to one cleaner per surface or task unless directed otherwise.

Trying to Clean Everything at Once

Attempting to tackle a large area all at once often leads to burnout and missed spots.
Cleaning in large sections without a plan can feel overwhelming and demotivating.
Break down tasks and focus on small areas to stay motivated and maintain a high cleaning standard.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Purse or Bag

Recommended Cleaning Frequency

For a regularly used purse or bag, aim to clean it at least once a week. Daily use means that spills, odors, and bacteria accumulate quickly, and a weekly cleaning helps prevent persistent smells.
If you use your bag less frequently, consider cleaning it every two weeks. However, available moisture and accidental spills can still cause odors to develop faster than you might expect.
Remember that cleaning doesn't always have to be a deep cleanse; a quick wipe-down, removal of debris, and air-out can often suffice to maintain a fresh interior.

Why This Frequency Works

A weekly routine stops the buildup of bacteria and oils that cause odors, ensuring the bag stays fresh over time.
Regular cleaning minimizes the need for more intensive odor-fighting methods later, saving you from having to tackle stubborn smells or potential stains.
It’s a proactive maintenance habit that keeps your bag not only smelling pleasant but also hygienic, which is especially important if you often carry items like makeup, food, or electronics.

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