How to Get That Dank Smell Out of Your Clothes

Cannabis has a very distinctive and pungent smell that can linger on your clothes long after you’ve smoked. While some may enjoy the aroma, others find it unpleasant or overpowering. If you want to get rid of the lingering weed stench from your wardrobe, there are several effective methods you can try.

Washing Clothes That Smell Like Weed

Washing clothes is usually the first step to removing any stubborn smells. Here are some tips for tackling weed odor in the washing machine:

Use Odor-Eliminating Laundry Detergent

Some laundry detergents are specially designed to combat stubborn odors. Using one of these detergents can be particularly effective in removing weed smell from your clothes. Look for detergents labeled as “odor-eliminating” or “with odor-removing technology.” These detergents often contain enzymes and other odor-fighting ingredients that can be very effective at breaking down and removing the smell of weed.

Use Hot Water

Washing clothes in hot or warm water opens up fabric fibers more than cold water. This allows odors to release more easily from the material. Check clothing tags first before washing in hot temperatures.

Add Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help absorb and neutralize smells. Add 1⁄2 cup of baking soda along with detergent to your wash cycle. The alkaline properties of baking soda will help remove odors. 

Use Vinegar

White vinegar contains acetic acid that works to neutralize odors and break down smells on a molecular level. Add 1⁄2 cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle to remove any lingering smells. It will also help remove soap residue. 

Dry in the Sun

Line drying clothes in sunlight can further help eliminate odors as UV rays have natural disinfecting abilities. The fresh air circulation also allows any remaining smells to dissipate.

Deodorizing Clothes Without Washing

If you don’t have time for a full wash, try these quick methods to freshen up clothes between wears:

Clothing Sprays

Consider using specialized clothing sprays designed to neutralize odors. These sprays are available in various scents and can be applied directly to your clothes. Always follow the product’s instructions for the best results.

Freezer Trick

Place clothes in a sealed plastic bag and put them in the freezer overnight. The cold temperature helps contain odors and the smell should be reduced by morning. Avoid freezing clothes for longer than one night to prevent potential damage to the fabric.

Vodka Spritz

The high alcohol content of vodka kills odor-causing bacteria. However, it’s crucial to employ this method with caution. Vodka’s alcohol can leave behind a potent scent, which may not be suitable for all fabrics or personal preferences. Before applying, test a small, inconspicuous area of your clothing to ensure it won’t negatively affect the fabric or result in an overpowering alcohol smell. Lightly spritz vodka onto clothes focusing on problem areas. Use this method sparingly, allowing for well-ventilated drying time. As the alcohol evaporates, it should leave your clothes with a fresher scent. 

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal absorbs smells through a process called adsorption. Place charcoal briquettes or pouches in a sealed container with smelly clothes for 1-2 hours. Avoid direct contact between the charcoal and fabric to eliminate any potential staining or residue. This method is particularly useful for stubborn odors.

Essential Oils

Essential oils like lemon, eucalyptus, peppermint contain compounds that counteract smells. Add a few drops of your chosen oil onto cotton balls and leave them in garment pockets or hems. The scent will slowly infuse the fabric, providing a more pleasant fragrance.

Preventing Weed Smells from Clothing

Stopping smells before they start is the ideal scenario. Here are some tips to avoid getting that dank bud smell on your clothes:

Smoke Outdoors

Opt for smoking in an outdoor, well-ventilated area, so that smells don’t saturate indoor fabrics and furniture. The natural breeze will also prevent smoke from clinging to your clothes.

Wear Protective Layers

Consider wearing an extra jacket or outer layer that you can remove after smoking to keep smells off the clothes closest to your body. Many people find it helpful to have designated “smoking clothes” for this purpose.

Use a Smoke Buddy

Exhale smoke through a Smoke Buddy or sploofy device filled with activated carbon to trap odors. This prevents lingering smoke smells around you and your clothing.

Wash Hands and Face

Smoking can leave residue on your hands and facial hair that transfers to clothing over time. Be sure to wash up after sessions to avoid this.

Wash Your Smoking Accessories

If you’re using paraphernalia like pipes, bongs, or vaporizers, they can also accumulate odors. Regularly clean and maintain your smoking accessories to prevent them from contributing to lingering smells on your clothing.

Preventing Weed Smells from Escaping: Tips for Keeping It In

There’s always a concern about the smell of weed traveling beyond your personal space. If you’re worried about neighbors smelling weed through walls, here are a couple of tips:

Seal the Room

Use draft stoppers or door seals to create an airtight environment. This helps prevent the smell from escaping into other parts of your home.

Air Purifiers

Invest in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter. These filters are excellent at capturing and neutralizing odors, ensuring that your space remains fresh and free from lingering weed smells.

Air Filtration System

Consider using a high-quality air filtration system specifically designed for odor removal. These systems employ activated carbon filters, which are highly effective at trapping and neutralizing weed odors, ensuring they don’t escape your space. This method is more reliable than ventilation when it comes to preventing odors from reaching your neighbors.

The Bottom Line

That distinctive cannabis smell can be hard to remove from fabric fibers. But with the right cleaning methods and preventative steps, you can keep your clothes fresh and odor-free. Using household ingredients like vinegar and baking soda during washes can lift stubborn smells. And containing smoke to outdoor areas will stop scents from clinging in the first place.