Vodka for Vintage? Yes, please.
Does an item of clothing in your life have a funky smell you just can't get rid of? Have you ever destroyed something trying to wash it in your washing machine? Laundry mistakes happen to us all.
Grab a bottle of vodka and let’s chat about it.
Before I opened The Pewter Thimble in 2021, I had worked the majority of my adult life as a Stylist, Costumer or Vintage Reseller. Despite the differences in those jobs, they all involved caring for fabric. Over the years, I have made every mistake there is to make. If an error was avoided, it was because an older, wiser woman in my field gave me helpful advice. So I’m passing along the great favor of this easy to make fabric spray, to save you from ‘stink or shrink’.
Supplies for making your own fabric spray; spray bottle, water and vodka (white distilled vinegar may also be used).
You will need:
-clean and empty spray bottle
-vodka (or distilled white vinegar)
-water
-a few drops of essential oil (optional)
Simply fill your empty spray bottle with half water and half vodka (or distilled white vinegar). You may add a few drops of your favorite essential oil if you like and then be sure to label your bottle so everyone in your house knows what it is.
To use the spray SHAKE THE BOTTLE and spritz your stinky item. Like magic (and by that I mean science), as the spray evaporates, the smell does too. Leave your item in the open air to dry, and refresh again whenever necessary.
This recipe is my number one recommendation for caring for every stinky shoe, delicate vintage piece, precious sweater or non washable costume in your life. I think this recipe is true lifesaver for thrifters and vintage lovers but can also be used in any household for common cleaning dilemas. You might:
pull back your blankets and spray your sheets in the morning
use as an air freshener in cars, pet spaces and bathrooms
spritz your athletic equipment between washes
use on ‘dry clean only’ items between professional treatments
May you avoid the ‘stink or shrink’ with all of your treasured items. In bocca al lupo (Roman good luck)!
Note: I use cheap vodka because …. I’m not trying to impress anyone with my Grey Goose linen spray - but you do you.