How to Get Perfume Smell Out of Clothes
Perfume is supposed to linger.
Just maybe not on your sweater three days later.
A few extra sprays before dinner can leave a surprisingly stubborn fragrance behind, especially on fabrics that hold onto scent. And adding another fragrance on top usually isn't the solution.
So how do you actually get perfume smell out of clothes?
Start by Checking the Care Label
Before you do anything, check the garment's care instructions.
This is especially important for silk, cashmere, wool, velvet, embellished pieces, and designer clothing.
If the garment is labeled dry clean only, don't experiment with home remedies just because you saw them online.
Air It Out
For lighter perfume smells, start with the simplest option.
Hang the garment somewhere well ventilated and allow it to air out for several hours.
Keep delicate clothing away from harsh direct sunlight, which can cause some fabrics and dyes to fade.
Sometimes a little fresh air is enough.
Don't Try to Cover the Smell
Adding scented sprays or more perfume might seem like an easy fix.
It usually isn't.
Instead of removing the original scent, you may simply end up with multiple fragrances competing with each other.
Scented products can also leave residue on fabric.
For Washable Clothing
If the care label allows machine or hand washing, use a mild, fragrance free detergent.
Follow the garment's instructions and avoid using more detergent than necessary.
More detergent doesn't mean cleaner clothes. Excess product can remain in the fibers and create another odor problem.
What About Silk and Cashmere?
Be more careful.
Delicate fabrics can react differently to water, heat, detergents, and other products.
Silk can develop water marks. Cashmere can shrink or lose its shape. Embellishments can become damaged.
If the piece is valuable or particularly delicate, professional cleaning may be a better choice than trying several DIY methods.
Can Dry Cleaning Remove Perfume Smell?
Professional cleaning can help remove fragrance residue and odors, although the result depends on the fabric, construction, amount of fragrance, and how long it has been there.
When bringing a garment in, mention that perfume odor is the issue.
That gives the cleaner important information when evaluating the garment.
Don't Wait Forever
Perfume isn't just fragrance.
Many perfumes contain alcohols, oils, and other ingredients that can interact with fabric.
If you've accidentally sprayed too much onto a favorite blouse, don't panic. But don't ignore it indefinitely either.
The sooner you address the garment appropriately, the better.
One More Tip for Next Time
Try applying perfume before getting dressed.
Spray it on your skin, let it settle, and then put on your clothes.
You'll still smell amazing without saturating the fabric.
A beautiful fragrance should complement your wardrobe, not become part of it.
Start with fresh air. Follow the care label. Avoid aggressive DIY treatments, especially on delicate or expensive pieces.
And if the perfume smell won't budge, professional garment care can help.
Have a garment that needs a little more attention? Text JULIETTE at (315) 284-5689 to request your first laundry or dry cleaning pickup.