How to Get Perfume Smell Out of Clothes: 5 Proven Methods That Work
Perfume may smell great in the moment, but sometimes the scent overstays its welcome — especially when it lingers on your clothes long after you’ve worn them. Whether it’s a scent you no longer like or it’s triggering allergies, knowing how to get perfume smell out of clothes is key.
Fragrance molecules can cling to fabric, especially synthetic materials, making them tricky to remove with a regular wash. Luckily, with the right approach, you can neutralize even the most stubborn perfume scents and leave your clothes truly fresh again.
How to Get Perfume Smell Out of Clothes with Baking Soda
One of the most effective natural deodorizers is baking soda. If you’re wondering how to get perfume smell out of clothes without harsh chemicals, this is a great place to start.
Here's how to use it:
- Fill a sink or basin with cool water
- Add ½ to 1 cup of baking soda and stir until dissolved
- Soak the clothing for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for strong scents
- Rinse thoroughly and air dry
This method helps absorb and neutralize fragrance without damaging delicate fabrics.
How to Get Perfume Smell Out of Clothes by Pre-Treating Before Washing
Sometimes, simply tossing your clothes in the washer won’t remove perfume odor. To really eliminate the scent, try pre-treating the fabric before your regular wash.
Try this:
- Mix white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) in a spray bottle
- Lightly spray the garment in the smelly areas (usually neck, cuffs, or chest)
- Let it sit for 15–20 minutes
- Wash as usual using scent-free detergent
This vinegar treatment breaks down perfume oils and prepares the fabric to release the trapped scent during the wash.
How to Get Perfume Smell Out of Clothes Using an Odor-Neutralizing Detergent
If you’re using a heavily fragranced laundry detergent, you might be layering more scent onto clothes. To really solve the problem, consider switching to an odor-neutralizing detergent specifically designed to eliminate tough smells..
Look for products labeled:
- “Free & Clear” or “Fragrance-Free”
- “Odor Eliminating”
- “For Sensitive Skin”
These detergents are ideal when learning how to get perfume smell out of clothes without adding more scent to the mix.
How to Get Perfume Smell Out of Clothes by Airing Them Out
Fresh air can work wonders — especially when it comes to stubborn scents. If you’re looking for a gentle and chemical-free method for how to get perfume smell out of clothes, try airing them outside.
Here's how:
- Hang garments on a clothesline or drying rack outdoors
- Choose a sunny, breezy day if possible
- Leave them out for several hours or even a full day
Sunlight helps break down odor particles, and fresh air carries them away. This method is especially helpful for clothing that can’t be washed often, like jackets or formalwear.
How to Get Perfume Smell Out of Clothes with Activated Charcoal
For truly persistent perfume odors, activated charcoal is a powerhouse solution. This method takes time, but it works — especially when all else fails.
Try this:
- Place the clothing item in a large container or garment bag
- Add an open container or pouch of activated charcoal nearby (but not touching the clothes)
- Seal the container and leave it for 24–48 hours
Charcoal absorbs strong smells from the surrounding air, including perfume trapped in fabric fibers.
How to Get Perfume Smell Out of Clothes When You Can’t Wash Them
Some items — like dry-clean only fabrics or vintage pieces — aren’t easy to launder. So how do you get perfume smell out of clothes without washing?
A few options:
- Steam treatment: Use a garment steamer to loosen and lift scent molecules
- Vodka spray: Lightly mist with diluted vodka (1 part vodka, 3 parts water), then let air dry
- Fabric freshener spray: Use a scent-free, odor-neutralizing spray designed for dry fabrics
These methods work well for refreshing delicate pieces or clothes you’ve worn briefly but need to rewear soon.
Final Thoughts: How to Get Perfume Smell Out of Clothes
Knowing how to get perfume smell out of clothes gives you more control over your wardrobe — and your comfort. Whether you’re dealing with an overpowering spritz, a scent that clashes with your own, or fragrance buildup over time, there’s a solution for every situation.
Try one (or a combination) of the methods above to bring your clothes back to neutral — clean, fresh, and ready to wear again.
Danielle Balog
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