How to Get Cigarette Smell Out of Clothes?
Learn how to get cigarette smell out of clothes with easy and effective methods. Remove smoke odors using household solutions for fresh, clean fabrics.

It can be challenging to get rid of the firm, lasting smell of cigarette smoke from garments. Whether you are a smoker or have been around someone who smokes, your clothes can absorb the scent quickly.
The good news is that there are many ways to eliminate cigarette odor and freshen up your clothes. In this guide, we will go over simple and effective methods to remove cigarette smells from clothing using household items and cleaning techniques.
Why Does Cigarette Smell Stick to Clothes?
Cigarette smoke contains tiny particles and chemicals that cling to fabric. The porous nature of clothing allows these particles to settle in, making the smell challenging to remove. Fabrics like wool and cotton tend to absorb odors more than synthetic materials, which is why some clothes retain the scent longer. The good news is that with the proper methods, you can remove the odor altogether.
Quick Methods to Remove Cigarette Smell
If you need a fast solution, try these quick fixes to remove the cigarette smell from your clothes:
1. Air Out Your Clothes
One of the easiest ways to remove smoke odor is by letting your clothes air out. Hang them outside in fresh air for several hours or overnight. Sunlight and fresh air help break down and remove the smoky particles clinging to the fabric.
2. Use Fabric Fresheners
A quick spritz of fabric freshener or odor-eliminator spray can help mask and neutralize the smell. However, this is a temporary solution, and the smell may return if the clothes are not washed properly.
3. Use a Clothes Dryer with Dryer Sheets
Toss your clothes in the dryer with a few dryer sheets. Run the dryer on a low heat setting for 10-15 minutes. The dryer sheets help absorb and replace the smoky odor with a fresh scent.
Washing Techniques to Remove Cigarette Smell
To altogether remove cigarette odor from your clothes, you need to wash them using the proper methods and cleaning agents. Here are some effective techniques:
1. Wash with Baking Soda
A natural deodorizer that aids in absorbing and eliminating smells is baking soda.
- Put your usual detergent and half a cup of baking soda in the washing machine.
- Wash the clothes in warm or cold water, depending on fabric care instructions.
- Air dry or use a dryer on a low setting.
2. Use White Vinegar
White vinegar is another excellent option for removing strong odors from clothes.
- Fill your washing machine with water and add 1 cup of white vinegar.
- Let the clothes soak for at least 30 minutes before adding detergent and washing as usual.
- Air dry to allow any lingering vinegar smell to dissipate.
3. Try Lemon Juice
Lemon juice has natural deodorizing and antibacterial properties.
- Add 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice to your washing machine.
- Wash clothes with detergent as usual.
- Air dry for a fresh scent.
4. Use Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is excellent for absorbing stubborn odors.
- Place your clothes in a sealed bag with activated charcoal sachets.
- Leave them overnight or for up to 24 hours.
- Remove and shake out the clothes before washing them as usual.
Alternative Methods to Remove Smoke Odor
If you do not have time to wash your clothes, try these alternative methods:
1. Use a Steam Cleaner
A steam cleaner helps lift odors from fabric fibers.
- Hold the steam cleaner a few inches away from the clothing and pass it over the fabric.
- Before putting the clothing on, let them air dry thoroughly.
2. Freeze Your Clothes
Freezing clothes can kill odor-causing bacteria.
- Tightly close the plastic bag containing the clothing.
- Leave them in the freezer for 12-24 hours.
- Take them out and let them come to room temperature before wearing them.
3. Use Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds are excellent at absorbing odors.
- Place coffee grounds in a breathable bag or bowl and set it in a sealed container with the clothes.
- Leave it for 24 hours to remove the smoky smell.
Preventing Cigarette Smell on Clothes
Prevention is key to keeping your clothes free from cigarette odors. Here are some tips to avoid the problem:
1. Store Clothes Properly
Keep your clothes in a sealed wardrobe or plastic container to prevent smoke exposure.
2. Use Protective Layers
Wear a jacket or cover-up when exposed to cigarette smoke. This stops the odor from seeping into your inside garments.
3. Avoid Smoking Indoors
If you or someone in your household smokes, try to smoke outside or in a well-ventilated area to prevent odors from settling into fabrics.
Conclusion
Cigarette stink can be removed from garments using the right technique. You can get rid of strong odors by letting your clothes air out, washing them with baking soda or vinegar, using steam, or even freezing them.
You can make sure your clothes stay clean and fresh by using these easy techniques. Additionally, you can altogether avoid dealing with smoke odors by taking a few preventative steps. Enjoy clean, fresh clothes every day by putting these recommendations into practice right now!