Thrifting is having a major moment—and for good reason. It’s fun, budget-friendly, and a sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe without supporting fast fashion. Shopping secondhand helps keep clothing out of landfills, and with trendy styles back in the spotlight, it’s easier than ever to put together a look that turns heads (and tells a story).
But let’s be real: one not-so-glamorous part of thrifting? That telltale musty thrift store smell.
If you’ve ever brought home a gem that needed a little freshening up before its debut, you’re not alone. Luckily, we’ve got tried-and-true methods for giving your new-to-you pieces a clean start.
1) Soak to Remove Stains & Odors
For stubborn or deeply embedded odors, oxygen-based boosters (often labeled as “Oxi” or “Oxygen bleach”) are a thrifted item’s best friend. These powders work by releasing oxygen to break down that thrift store funk and mystery stains. We personally love Dropps Oxi Booster Pods for their efficacy and easy-to-use pod format.
Here’s how to Oxi Booster Pods:
- Consult your garments label or check for colorfastness.
- Fill a basin, sink, or tub with warm or hot water.
- Add 1 Oxi Booster pod and stir to dissolve.
- Submerge your garment and let it soak for 4–6 hours, or overnight for extra funky items.
- Rinse well and follow with a standard wash.
This is especially effective for cotton, denim, and most synthetic blends. Just avoid using on delicate fibers like wool, silk, or leather.
2) Wash - With Odor-Fighting Additions
After soaking (or as a first step for lightly musty items), give your garment a proper wash with a detergent that best suits the fabric type you are washing. Here are some we love:
Dropps Sensitive Skin Detergent: Enzyme-free detergent that is perfect for natural fibers such as silk, linen, or wool.
Dropps Odor & Stain Detergent: Designed to blast away tough odors and the top household stains with its special blend of five specialized enzymes.
Dropps 4-in-1 Plus Oxi Detergent: All-in-solution with oxygen power for advanced stain and odor removal, plus it helps whiten and brighten fabrics.
To boost your wash:
- You can also add an Oxi Booster or a baking soda for extra cleaning power (if the fabric care label allows).
- Pour 1 cup of white vinegar into the fabric softener compartment to act as a natural deodorizer.
When drying, avoid drying with high heat, as heat drying can amplify and lock in lingering smells. Instead, allow the garment to air dry, or dry it on low or no heat in the machine. (Don’t forget Wool Dryer Balls to shorten the dryer time!) Depending on the age of the item and the level of odor, you may want to wash the garment twice.
3) Spray It Down (For Non-Washables)
Not everything you thrift can go into the washer—think shoes, purses, faux leather, hats, or blazers. In those cases, a DIY spray can help refresh the fabric without a full soak.
Two reliable methods people love:
-
Vinegar Spray: Mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water in a spray bottle. Optional: Add a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or tea tree).
- Vodka Spray: Fill a spray bottle with plain, cheap vodka and lightly mist the item. As it evaporates, it pulls odor-causing compounds with it. A favorite in the theater and costume world!
Spray lightly and allow the item to dry fully before use. Always do a spot test first.
4) Air It Out
Sometimes, all your thrifted piece needs is some fresh air and UV light. Hang the item outside on a breezy day, or place it near an open window. Sunlight is a natural deodorizer and can help kill bacteria, too.
5) Freeze It
Yes, really—freezing your clothing can kill odor-causing bacteria, especially if you're dealing with items that are dry clean only or hard to wash.
How to freeze:
- Place the item in a sealed plastic bag.
- Pop it in your freezer overnight (or longer).
- Let it thaw and air out before wearing.
This works particularly well for jeans, jackets, or structured fabrics.
Thrifting is all about giving clothing a second life -- and sometimes that life starts with a solid refresh. Whether you’re soaking, washing, spraying, airing, or freezing, there’s a method for every type of find. A little effort upfront means you can wear your secondhand treasures with full confidence (and zero weird smells).
Got your own secret trick for eliminating thrift store odor? Let us know—we're all ears!