First things first...when it comes to thrifting, buy what you like buuuut....if you are Certain that it is dry clean only, and you don't want to spend the cash leave it. I don't like the idea of dry cleaning chemicals so I wash it in my washing machine and hope for the best. Let me tell you that I have been Very Successful in washing thrifted clothing on delicate and then hanging things to dry....and my favorite part...Ironing! I love to iron...no joke.
But here are my recommendations for d-skunking-your-junk....
1. If it is at all too skunky DON'T BUY IT!....unless it is a Dale of Norway Sweater that maybe is from a smoker's home then dangle it out of the window while you drive home.....then wash it in Mrs. Meyers Lemon Verbena and add a cup of Lemon Vodka to the rinse....you heard me.
2. If it is a Barganza and you can afford to risk it.....use your washing machine on delicate, use Mrs. Meyers in cold water, hang to dry to lay flat. I washed a Ralph Lauren 100% Wool Camel Coat this way and it turned out beautifully.
3. Buy gently used items that appear to be well cared for....self explanatory.
4. Buy yourself some Citrus Vodka and a spray bottle....take a swig if you feel like it, but I'm talking about gently washing an item and spritzing it with citrus vodka (or rubbing alcohol...same theory but not as fun)to sanitize it....that's what vintage clothiers recommend.
great tips.. now I have an excuse to buy Citrus Vodka.. I can just say, "But Dee says . . . "
ReplyDeleteAny cleaning tip that involves Vodka gets my vote!
ReplyDeleteno way?! citrus vodka? i actually have a bottle in the freezer right now...i guess it needs to get moved out by the washer! i LOVE mrs. meyers products. (i get the basil scent.) i'm so happy you posted this - i actually have a vintage coat hanging in my closet that i think i'll try this out on!
ReplyDeleteLoved this!
ReplyDeleteI am a Goodwill junkie too. I have a doctor's appointment today and am shuttling my kids off to the sitter so that I can thrift while I'm out. :)
I am a major thrifting junkie! So jealous, I hate ironing!
ReplyDeleteLove the vodka tip. Also white vinegar will take the yellow sweat stains out of clothes, just give them a good soak. I wish I could come thrifting with you, we have nothing here. Have a wonderful week honey. axx
ReplyDeleteHi there, thanks for your comment over on the Salvage Life blog. I am SO excited about this Vodka tip, I'm always looking for new vintage cleaning ideas! Thanks and please keep in touch! Very Best, Beth
ReplyDeletewow..didn't know about the vodka thing. makes sense. totally inspires me to thrift more often!
ReplyDeleteGreat tips! I love thrifting.. but I always leave feeling dusty and sneezy. This is great!
ReplyDeleteI'm on team vodka :)
Ali
Foundintheali.blogspot.com