Musty smell in second-hand clothes? Here's how to get it fresh
A buyer's first impression isn't your photo, it's their nose when they open the parcel. With these steps every piece comes out fresh, smooth and Vinted-ready, without expensive products.
Air it out, wash with vinegar and dry it in the air
Hang the piece to air overnight first. Then wash it according to the care label with a splash of white vinegar in the softener drawer, and let it air-dry, ideally outside. Smoke or sweat? Leave it overnight in a bag with baking soda. Creases come out with a steamer or the steam from your shower.
Your buyer smells it first
Charity shops, flea markets, attics or a pile from a friend: pieces that spent a long time in a wardrobe, bag or box soon pick up a musty smell. You can't see it in a photo. But your buyer smells it the moment they open the parcel.
And that's exactly when they write their review. A fresh, smooth piece feels like a gift. A musty one feels second-hand in the bad sense. Five extra minutes per piece makes that difference.
Your photo sells the piece. The first impression when it's unpacked sells your next one.Pick the problem, get your step-by-step plan
Choose what's going on and what kind of piece it is. Tick off the steps and watch your freshness meter fill up.
Musty smell · T-shirt or polo
Cotton can usually go at 40°C. Always check the care label first.Always check the care label first. Not sure with an expensive piece? Choose the mildest option: air it out and steam it.
Four tips you read everywhere, checked
Tap a card to see if it holds up.
Source for the freezer myth: Smithsonian Magazine, "The Myth of the Frozen Jeans".
Is your piece Vinted-ready?
Tap what you've done. All green? Then it can go in the box.
Handpicked pieces, ready to list
Selected Grade A branded clothing. A quick steam, a photo and it's online.
Columbia Fleece Sweaters Box – 3 pieces€89
5x Premium Branded Sweaters Box€139
Premium Branded Winter Jackets Box – 3 pieces€145Winter jackets from top brands, right for these months.See the box →
Resell Starter Box – 10 pieces€155Our bestseller: a mix of branded pieces to start with.See the box →Questions about fresh clothes
The questions resellers ask most.
How do you get a musty smell out of clothes?
Hang the piece to air overnight first. Then wash it according to the care label with a splash of white vinegar in the softener drawer and let it air-dry, ideally outside.
Does putting clothes in the freezer help with smells?
Not really. Many bacteria survive the cold. Washing or airing works better.
How do you get smoke smell out of clothes?
Hang it outside for 1 to 2 days, then leave it overnight in a bag with baking soda and wash it with a splash of vinegar. Still smell it? Repeat the wash once.
Can I put vinegar in the washing machine?
Yes, a splash of white vinegar in the softener drawer helps against odour. Don't do it every wash, because too often is bad for your machine's rubber seals.
How do I get creases out without an iron?
Hang the piece in the bathroom while you shower, or use a garment steamer from top to bottom. Then put it on a hanger right away.
Do I need to wash every second-hand piece before selling it?
Not always. If a piece smells fresh and looks clean, airing and steaming is often enough. Not sure? Wash it according to the label.
Fresh pieces, fresh reviews
Handpicked branded clothing in one box, shipped within 24h. Steam, photograph, list.
Bought. Listed. Sold.
No VAT number required · Shipped within the EU – no customs fees
