7 ways to get cigarette smell out of clothes
Cigarette and cigar smoke can leave behind a strong, stubborn scent that isn’t always easy to eliminate from fabrics. If you’re wondering how to get cigarette smells out of clothes—whether after a night in a smoke-filled room or while refreshing vintage fabrics—read on to learn more.
How long does it take for cigarette smell in clothes to go away?
The length of time cigarette odor can linger on clothing depends on several factors, such as how much exposure to smoke the fabric had, how long it was exposed and the type of material.
With the right laundry products and techniques, a single wash cycle is typically enough to remove cigarette odors. Adding a half cup of baking soda to your load can sometimes help enhance the cleaning power of your wash cycle and may help cut through lingering smoke smells.
Tips for removing cigarette smell without washing
Some fabrics, like leather, suede or dry-clean-only garments, can’t go into the wash. The following odor-fighting tips can help refresh your more delicate clothing items without washing.
1. Air out clothes
Hang garments outside in the fresh air or in a well-ventilated indoor space. Sunlight and moving air can help disperse odors. You can even use a fan or hang items near an open window. This may take a few hours or several days, depending on the odor’s strength.
2. Bag clothes with a box of baking soda
Seal your clothing in a plastic tub or heavy-duty bag along with an open box of baking soda. Let it sit for several days to a week. Baking soda can help neutralize acidic smoke odors by absorbing them over time.
3. Steam clean clothes
Hang the item in a steamy bathroom or use a garment steamer. The moisture and heat can help release odor molecules from the fabric. After steaming, hang clothes to dry completely.
4. Use an odor-eliminating spray
Sprays like fabric deodorizers bind to smoke molecules and may help reduce the smell. Apply in a well-ventilated area and allow the garment to air dry. These sprays can sometimes offer temporary relief and complement deeper cleaning methods. This method may not be advisable with delicate fabrics like silks. Check your garment tags and the directions on the spray to be sure.
5. Try a lemon juice spray
Mix lemon juice with water and lightly mist white or light-colored garments. The natural acids in lemon can help break down smoke particles. Test on a small area first, as this method may not be suitable for dark or delicate fabrics.
6. Use rubbing alcohol with caution
Rubbing alcohol can sometimes help pretreat certain stains and odors, but it may not be as effective at removing odors from clothing as other methods. If you choose to use it, always check the care label first and test on an inconspicuous area to be sure your fabric can handle it. Never place garments treated with rubbing alcohol in the washer or dryer unless they’ve been thoroughly rinsed, and be sure to keep treated items away from flammable substances.
7. Use a diluted vinegar spray
Distilled white vinegar is a natural odor neutralizer that can help eliminate stubborn smoke smells from clothing. To use it, mix equal parts distilled white vinegar and hot water, then allow the garment to soak for at least an hour, or overnight for stronger odors. You can also combine vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist smoky garments, allowing them to air dry. It’s important to rinse garments thoroughly after treatment, as vinegar should not be added directly to your washing machine. Always check your garment’s care label before use, and test on a small area first to help avoid damage.
Can cigarette smell wash out of clothes?
You can typically wash cigarette smell out of clothes using the right products and methods, especially when you pair them with odor-fighting ingredients like baking soda or white vinegar. Presoaking, using warm water and choosing the right detergent can all contribute to successful odor removal.
Avoid drying clothes before confirming the smell is fully gone, as heat can set the odor into the fabric.
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How to wash cigarette smell out of clothes
To get stubborn smoke smells out of your clothes, you may need more than just detergent. Odor-fighting ingredients like baking soda and scent boosters can help neutralize lingering odors and refresh your fabrics. Follow the steps below to help your smoky clothes smell clean again.
1. Add baking soda to the wash
Add half a cup of baking soda directly to your washing machine along with your regular detergent. Baking soda can help neutralize tough smoke odors thanks to its natural deodorizing properties.
2. Use a laundry scent booster
For added freshness, include a scent booster (like fragrance beads or pellets) in the wash. These dissolve in water and can leave a lasting, clean scent on your clothes.
3. Add fabric softener (optional)
If your garments allow it, consider a fabric softener designed to fight odors. Some formulas can also help reduce static and soften fabrics while locking in fresh scents.
4. Dry with scented dryer sheets
Place a scented dryer sheet in the dryer with your freshly washed clothes. This can help reduce static cling and can help your clothes smell clean and pleasant.
5. Air dry in the sun (if possible)
If weather and space allow, air dry your clothes outside on a line. Sunlight and fresh air can help air out pesky odors, and add a natural scent.
6. Use a deodorizing spray for between washes
For clothing you can’t wash right away, lightly mist with a fabric-safe deodorizing spray. Let it air dry fully. This can help reduce odors temporarily until you’re ready to wash. Check your garment tags and the spray packaging to be sure it’s safe to use on your fabric.
Explore Whirlpool® Washing Machines and Dryers
Whirlpool® Washers and Dryers can help eliminate stubborn odors and get your clothes smelling fresh again. Select models, like this washer from Whirlpool brand, offer features like the Automatic Presoak Option, so you can tackle stains without a trip to the sink.
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