Why Does My Outfit Smell in the Package? And How to Fix It Quickly!

There’s nothing quite like unboxing a gorgeous ethnic outfit—rich embroidery, intricate zari work, the promise of weddings, festivals, and magical moments. But if you’ve ever opened your parcel only to be greeted by a strange odor, you’re not alone. It’s a common concern with premium ethnic wear, especially those that come with heavy embellishments and detailed craftsmanship.

But worry not! Let’s unfold the truth behind this and share some quick remedies to bring your outfit back to freshness.

Why Does This Happen?

Heavy ethnic garments are made of rich fabrics like silk, velvet, brocade, and net, often layered and embellished with embroidery, sequins, or stones. These pieces are packed securely and sometimes stored for long durations to protect them from dust and moisture. This can occasionally lead to a “stored” or “closed” scent inside the packaging.

Common reasons:

  • Air-tight packaging to protect fabrics from external elements.
  • Natural dyes or glues used in embroidery or embellishments.
  • Humidity changes during transit.
  • Storage in protective wrapping, often using plastic or tissue to safeguard the garment.

How to Refresh Your Outfit? Quick & Easy Remedies!

Here’s how you can let your outfit breathe and bloom again:

  1. Air It Out Naturally:

Place the garment on a hanger in a shaded, well-ventilated area (not under direct sunlight). Let it breathe for 24–48 hours. Most of the smell will fade away naturally!

  1. Use a Fabric Freshener Spray:

Lightly mist a gentle fabric-safe spray like rose water, lavender mist, or garment-friendly fresheners. Just a spritz or two—no soaking required!

  1. Activated Charcoal or Baking Soda Trick:

Place the outfit in a breathable cotton bag along with a small pouch of activated charcoal or baking soda. Leave it overnight. These natural deodorizers absorb odors like magic.

  1. Dry Cloth Wipe Down:

Take a soft, dry cloth and gently dab the inner linings or embellished areas. This helps release any chemical residue from storage.

  1. Professional Steam or Dry Clean (Optional):

If you’re prepping the outfit for a big day and want a perfect finish, a steam press or dry cleaning can freshen it up and add crispness too.

  1. Clove & Camphor Combo:

Place your outfit in a breathable cotton bag with a few cloves and camphor tablets (wrapped in a muslin cloth). These natural deodorizers work beautifully, especially for traditional garments.

Bonus:Clove and camphor also help keep insects away from delicate embroidery!

  1. Rice Hack:

Put your outfit in a large box or garment bag with an open bowl of uncooked rice nearby. Rice absorbs moisture and neutralizes odor. Keep it for 24–48 hours.

  1. Green Tea Sachets:

Drop used & dried green tea bags or store-bought tea sachets in a cloth pouch and place them near your outfit. Works similarly to baking soda—absorbs odor naturally without harming fabric.

  1. Hairdryer on Cool Mode:

If you’re in a hurry, set your hairdryer to cool air and gently blow it over the outfit, especially the inner lining or layered parts. It helps air out the inner creases.

⚠️ Be careful around embroidery—no heat, no direct airflow on embellishments!

  1. Scented Drawer Sheets or Potpourri:

Wrap your outfit in a soft muslin cloth and place it next to a drawer liner or potpourri sachet with soft floral or sandalwood scent. This is perfect for outfits stored until the event day.

  1. DIY Linen Spray (Natural & Safe):

Mix:

* 1 cup distilled water.

* A few drops of lavender / rose / sandalwood essential oil.

* Optional: 1 tsp vodka (helps disperse the scent)

Lightly mist this on the garment only from a distance and let it air dry. Avoid embellishment-heavy areas!

  1. Steam it with Essential Oils:

Use a garment steamer with a few drops of essential oil in the water tank (check if your steamer allows this). This refreshes the fabric and gives it a light aroma.

⚠️ Quick Note:

“Always test a small, hidden part of your garment before applying any product—especially on silks, velvets, or detailed embroidery. When in doubt, air it out!

Preventive Tip from Our Side:

At Cbazaar, we are always working towards improving our packaging process. We’ve now started:

* Using breathable packaging materials.

* Including mild garment fresheners.

* Shortening storage cycles before dispatch.

Your feedback helps us evolve—thank you for bringing beauty and betterment hand in hand. 💖

Still Concerned? We’re Just a Click Away!

If you’re ever unsure about a garment’s condition or need help with care, don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer care. We’ll guide you with personalized support.

Fashion isn’t just worn—it’s experienced.

Let your outfit carry the essence of celebration, not the scent of a sealed journey. With just a little care, your lehengas, sarees, and sherwanis will dazzle and delight just as intended.