Thrifted clothes can be a great find, but washing them properly is essential for your health and the environment. Most secondhand items are not cleaned before hitting the racks, and they may carry bacteria, allergens, or odors. Here’s how to clean them safely:

• Check care labels: Follow washing instructions to avoid damage.
• Sort by color and fabric: Prevent color bleeding and fabric wear.
• Pre-treat stains and odors: Use vinegar, baking soda, or enzyme-based products.
• Use eco-friendly detergents: Avoid harsh chemicals and opt for biodegradable options.
• Add vinegar to disinfect: Kills bacteria and removes residue.
• Choose cold or warm water: Protect fabrics and save energy.
• Hand-wash delicate items: Preserve vintage or fragile pieces.
• Skip fabric softeners: They leave residues and reduce absorbency.
• Air dry when possible: Avoid shrinkage and reduce energy use.
• Use green dry cleaning for special or delicate items.

 

1. Read the Care Label First

Before tossing your clothes into the wash, take a moment to check the care label. Think of it as your garment’s instruction manual – it outlines how to wash, dry, iron, and store your clothes to keep them looking their best. Ignoring these instructions can lead to faded colors, stretched fabrics, or even accidental shrinkage.

Care labels use universal symbols to make things easier. For example:

• A tub icon with water means machine washing is safe, and the number inside (like 104°F) shows the maximum water temperature.
• A hand symbol? That’s your cue to wash it by hand.
• A crossed-out tub indicates the garment needs professional dry cleaning.
• A square with a circle inside means tumble drying is okay, but if it’s crossed out, skip the dryer entirely.

These symbols are more than just suggestions – they’re your guide to avoiding damage to delicate fabrics.

“Always read the care label before washing or drying – even if it seems like a ‘simple’ item.” – Kona Cleaners

What if the label is missing or too faded to read? That’s common with secondhand finds or older clothes. In those cases, play it safe: use a gentle cycle with cold water and test a small, hidden area of the fabric to see how it reacts.

There’s a reason the Federal Trade Commission requires manufacturers to include care instructions. Following these guidelines isn’t just about keeping your clothes clean – it’s about extending their lifespan. Plus, small changes like washing at 86°F instead of 104°F can save up to 38% in energy use.

When in doubt, stick to hand washing or the gentlest cool-water cycle. It’s a simple way to protect your clothes and the environment at the same time.

 

2. Sort by Color and Fabric Type

Sorting your laundry properly is a crucial step in avoiding mishaps, especially when dealing with secondhand clothes. Taking the time to organize your items before washing can be the difference between keeping colors vibrant and dealing with color bleeding disasters. It’s a simple yet effective way to set the stage for giving each fabric the care it needs.

Sorting by color is key to preventing dye transfer, which is especially risky with secondhand garments since you can’t always know their washing history. Dark or bright colors are often prone to bleeding, so it’s best to group clothes into categories: whites and light colors, darks (like black, navy, and deep brown), and medium tones (reds, blues, greens). For patterned items, sort them according to their dominant color.

If you’ve picked up new or heavily saturated thrifted pieces, wash them separately for the first few cycles. Turn them inside out to reduce the chance of dye transfer. Not sure if a garment is colorfast? Test it by dampening an inconspicuous area with warm water, then pressing a warm iron between two cloths. If the color transfers, it’s not colorfast.

Fabric sorting is just as important since different materials require different levels of care. Heavier items like denim and towels can handle more vigorous washing, while delicate fabrics like silk need a gentler touch. Mixing heavy and light fabrics can cause abrasion or even damage.

“Different fabrics and fabric blends need to be laundered appropriately to avoid discoloration, shrinking, fading, and damage to fabrics and the garment.” – Jennifer Parnell, co-founder of Humble Suds

Separate your laundry by fabric weight: sturdy items in one group and delicate pieces in another. Keep garments with zippers or buttons away from knits and lingerie to avoid snags. For items that shed lint, like towels, wash them separately from materials like microfiber or corduroy that attract fuzz.

If you’re dealing with blended fabrics, pay extra attention. Follow the washing instructions for the fabric with the highest percentage, unless the blend includes silk or wool. In those cases, always stick to delicate care guidelines.

“The delicate wash cycle has less agitation and typically uses cold water. This means less abrasion to fabrics rubbing against each other and less risk of dye transfer.” – Jessica Zinna, Senior Scientist for Tide

For thrifted items that are heavily soiled or stained, it’s best to wash them separately on a longer, heavy-duty cycle. This keeps dirt and grime from transferring to cleaner clothes and ensures stubborn stains get the attention they need.

Using a laundry basket with compartments can make pre-sorting easier and help you avoid mix-ups.

 

3. Treat Stains and Odors Before Washing

Taking the time to pre-treat stains and odors can save your secondhand clothes from irreversible damage. Since thrifted garments come with an unknown backstory, addressing any problem areas before tossing them in the wash can make all the difference between salvaging a great find and losing it.

Start by figuring out what you’re dealing with. Different stains require different treatments, and using the wrong approach could make things worse. Begin by gently dabbing or blotting the stain with a white cloth. This helps remove surface residue and gives you an idea of the stain’s type. Always test any cleaning solution on a hidden spot first to ensure it won’t harm the fabric.

Timing matters when it comes to stains. The American Cleaning Institute emphasizes:

“The less time a stain has to soak in, the easier it will be to remove, although there are ways to remove old stains out of clothes as well”.

Even older, set-in stains on thrifted clothes can often be tackled with the right techniques.

• Protein-based stains (like blood, dairy, egg, grass, or bodily fluids): Use an enzyme-based stain remover and cold water. Avoid hot water, as it can set the stain permanently.
• Oil-based stains (such as grease or makeup): Apply dish soap directly to the stain, gently work it in, and then wash in the hottest water the fabric can handle.
• Dye stains or ink marks: Rubbing alcohol works well here.
• Wine stains: Treat with white vinegar.
• Rust stains: Lemon juice and salt or a commercial rust remover can do the trick.

Odors can be just as tricky as stains. Thrifted clothes often carry lingering smells from storage or previous owners. White vinegar is a great deodorizer because of its acetic acid content, which also kills bacteria. According to Deseret Industries:

“White vinegar is made of acetic acid, which naturally deodorizes and, bonus, kills bacteria, so it’s great for blasting both natural body odors and harmful chemical and fragrance smells”.

Soak the clothes in a solution of one part vinegar to four parts water for about an hour before washing.

Baking soda is another effective option for odors. As Postcards From Hawaii explains:

“Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is an alkaline substance that reacts with acidic odours to neutralise them upon contact”.

Sprinkle baking soda directly onto the fabric, let it sit for a few hours, then brush it off before washing.

One key tip: avoid heat when dealing with stains. Using an iron or dryer before the stain is fully gone can set it permanently. Instead, air-dry the treated garments first so you can check your progress.

Once stains and odors are under control, you’re ready to move on to selecting the right cleaning products for a greener, more eco-conscious wash.

 

4. Choose Eco-Friendly Detergents

After pre-treating stains and odors, the next step is selecting an eco-friendly detergent that’s gentle on both your clothes and the planet. These detergents are free from harsh chemicals like phosphates, sulfates, and artificial fragrances, which can wear down delicate fibers over time. This is especially crucial for thrifted clothes, which may already have some signs of wear.

When shopping for eco-friendly options, look for detergents with biodegradable surfactants such as Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamide DEA, alkyl polyglucosides (APGs), and Potassium Cocoate. These plant-based ingredients naturally break down, reducing their environmental impact. By focusing on biodegradable and plant-derived components, you ensure a safer and more sustainable laundry routine.

High-quality, eco-friendly detergents also include biodegradable enzymes like proteases, lipases, and amylases, which effectively tackle stains without relying on harsh chemicals. For a pleasant scent, choose products that use essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances, which may contain allergens or pollutants.

To simplify your search, rely on trusted certifications. The EPA‘s Safer Choice label is a reliable indicator of chemical safety. This label is backed by rigorous reviews of every ingredient, regardless of its concentration in the product. According to the American Cleaning Institute:

“Every ingredient is reviewed for safety criteria for both human health and the environment before a product can carry the Safer Choice Label, regardless of percentage in the product”.

Other certifications to consider include EWG Verified, which ensures products are free from harmful chemicals and meet transparency standards, as well as EcoLogo and Green Seal, which evaluate products for their overall environmental performance.

It’s also important to avoid detergents that contain harmful ingredients like synthetic fragrances, phthalates, parabens, SLS/SLES, 1,4-dioxane, NPEs, chlorine bleach, and optical brighteners. These substances can irritate sensitive skin and leave residues that may cause reactions later.

Environmental scientist David Ellerby highlights the importance of using biodegradable ingredients:

“Environmental persistence of harmful chemicals is a major concern. It’s essential that ingredients are biodegradable, so at minimum they shouldn’t survive passage through a wastewater treatment plant or septic system, and if they do they should rapidly break down”.

Lastly, consider concentrated formulas packaged in recyclable or refillable containers. These small adjustments can make a big difference for the environment while helping your thrifted finds stay in great condition.

 

5. Add White Vinegar to Disinfect

White vinegar is a practical and effective way to disinfect thrifted clothes. Thanks to its acetic acid content, it can eliminate 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, meeting EPA standards for pathogen removal.

For that first wash of your thrifted finds, try adding 1 cup of white vinegar directly to the wash cycle. This step helps remove any lingering contaminants, which is particularly helpful when you don’t know the garment’s history.

White vinegar does more than just disinfect. It’s also great for neutralizing tough odors and breaking down soap residue that can leave fabrics feeling stiff. Morgan LaLonde, laundry brand manager for Whirlpool, highlights its benefits:

“Because white vinegar is an acidic solution, its deodorizing and stain-removing properties also often work on mildew”.

For regular upkeep, use 1/4 to 1/2 cup of vinegar per load when your thrifted clothes need freshening. Add it to your washing machine’s fabric softener dispenser or directly during the rinse cycle. That said, it’s important to keep fabric-specific concerns in mind.

Avoid using vinegar on garments with elastic components, like workout clothes, swimwear, or undergarments. The acidity can weaken the elasticity over time. If you must use vinegar on these items for deodorizing, dilute it first and use it sparingly. Kathy Cohoon, director of franchise operations for Two Maids, advises:

“Elastic or exercise clothing can be worn down over time since the acid can break down the elastics. If you need it in a pinch for deodorizing and brightening, be sure to dilute the vinegar and only use vinegar on these types of clothing if totally necessary”.

Lastly, never mix vinegar with bleach – this combination produces toxic chlorine gas. Always check clothing care labels before using vinegar to avoid any accidental damage.

 

6. Wash in Cold or Warm Water

Picking the right water temperature can make a big difference in preserving thrifted clothes. Cold and warm water are great options for keeping second-hand fabrics in good shape, especially since they may already be a bit worn from prior use.

Cold water is gentle on delicate fabrics like silk, wool, and lace. It helps prevent shrinking and damage while also keeping bright and dark colors from fading or bleeding. Plus, washing in cold water uses less energy, making it a win for both your clothes and your utility bill.

Warm water, on the other hand, offers a middle ground. It’s effective for cleaning sturdier fabrics like cotton, denim, and polyester blends, and it’s great for tackling everyday stains on moderately dirty clothes. While it’s not as gentle as cold water, it still helps balance fabric care and cleaning power.

When deciding between cold and warm water, think about the type of stains you’re dealing with. Cold water works best for protein-based stains like blood, baby food, or milk since heat can cause these stains to set by making the proteins coagulate. For tougher stains like oil or heavy dirt, warm water is the better choice.

If you’re unsure about a garment’s care instructions, play it safe and go with cold water. Just keep in mind that while liquid detergents dissolve well in cold water, some powdered detergents may not work as effectively at lower temperatures. And remember, hot water can be rough on fabrics, especially vintage pieces, as it wears out fibers faster and risks damaging them over time.

 

7. Hand Wash Delicate Items

Some thrifted finds, especially vintage pieces or garments labeled “hand wash only“, require extra TLC. Hand washing gives you full control over the cleaning process and helps protect delicate fabrics from the rough treatment of a washing machine. This method works perfectly for items that need that added level of care.

Start by checking the care label (as mentioned earlier). If it says “dry-clean only“, skip the home washing altogether. For items marked “hand wash only” or vintage pieces with no clear instructions, hand washing is your safest bet.

Set up a washing station in a clean sink or basin. Fill it with cool to lukewarm water – hot water can weaken fibers or cause shrinkage.

Use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics, or opt for gentle alternatives like baby shampoo or a small amount of dish soap. Submerge the garment and let it soak for about 30 minutes. Gently swirl it around, but avoid scrubbing, twisting, or wringing, as these actions can damage the material. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear, repeating with fresh water if needed to remove all soap.

To remove excess water, gently press the garment without wringing or twisting it. Lay it flat on a clean, dry towel, roll it up, and press down to absorb moisture without stretching the fabric.

Finally, air-dry your delicates to preserve their shape. Items like silk or wool should be laid flat on a towel, while sturdier fabrics can hang on a drying rack with clothespins. Just make sure to keep them out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources to avoid fading or further damage.

 

8. Skip Fabric Softeners and Strong Fragrances

When it comes to thrifted clothes, steer clear of fabric softeners and heavily scented detergents. While they might promise a fresh, clean scent, they often add layers of unwanted chemicals and odors on top of residues left by previous owners. These residues can include remnants of strong laundry products, perfumes, or even body odors.

Fabric softeners, in particular, leave behind a waxy film that can reduce both absorbency and breathability. This is especially problematic for items like towels, athletic wear, or any fabric designed to wick moisture. Rich Handel, Test Project Leader at Consumer Reports, explains:

“Not only can it irritate sensitive skin, but it can also leave a layer of residue on your clothes and reduce the absorption of your towels”.

The concerns don’t stop there. Synthetic fragrances and fabric softeners can trigger skin irritation, allergies, and even respiratory issues. Many fabric softeners include Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs), which are known to irritate the skin and respiratory system and have even been linked to antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

For thrifted children’s sleepwear, fabric softeners pose an additional risk: they can reduce the flame-resistant properties of these garments, making them less safe for kids.

Instead of relying on chemical-laden products, opt for natural, safer alternatives:

• White vinegar: Naturally softens fabrics and is a safe, effective option.
• Baking soda: Add half a cup to your wash cycle to soften clothes and neutralize odors.
• Wool dryer balls: These not only soften clothes but can also cut drying time by 10–25% without affecting towel absorbency.

If you prefer a subtle scent, add a few drops of essential oil to wool dryer balls. This way, your thrifted clothes can come out soft, fresh, and free from harmful residues – no harsh chemicals required.

 

9. Air Dry When Possible

Air drying your thrifted clothes is a simple way to protect the fabric, avoid shrinkage, and make them last longer. This is especially true for second-hand items, which may have already gone through years of use and washing.

The environmental perks are hard to ignore. Air-drying can slash your laundry-related climate impact by up to 67% because machine drying is responsible for about 75% of the total carbon emissions from laundry. Plus, it’s a money-saver. Air drying could save you around $170 annually, and if you fully line dry over the years, you might pocket up to $2,100 – the estimated lifetime cost of running a dryer.

On sunny, warm days, drying clothes outside is ideal. Sunlight not only dries but also disinfects and refreshes your clothes. If you’re drying indoors, pick a warm, ventilated area. Open windows or use fans to circulate air, and a dehumidifier can speed up the process while preventing mildew.

Technique matters. To cut down on wrinkles, shake and smooth out clothes before hanging them. Use hangers for shirts to help them keep their shape. For delicate fabrics like wool or cashmere, lay them flat on a towel to avoid stretching. Heavier fabrics should be shaken out well before hanging to ensure they dry evenly.

As Shelie Miller, SEAS Professor and Co-Director of the U-M Center for Sustainable Systems, points out:

“We tend to focus on technological improvements, but a lot of the time, behavioral changes can have larger impacts. If we are going to tackle climate change, we have to think about both cultural and technical solutions”.

To maximize airflow, space clothes evenly on drying racks and keep the racks away from walls to prevent moisture buildup.

For items that aren’t suited to air drying, check out eco-friendly green dry cleaning options in the next section.

 

10. Use Green Dry Cleaning for Special Items

When it comes to thrifted treasures or delicate garments that can’t be safely washed at home, green dry cleaning is a smart, eco-conscious option. While some items can handle machine or hand washing, others – like silk, wool, or intricately detailed pieces – need professional care. Green dry cleaning offers a safer alternative to traditional methods, both for your clothing and the planet.

Conventional dry cleaning relies on perchloroethylene (Perc), a chemical linked to health risks like cancer. In contrast, green dry cleaning uses non-toxic solutions such as liquid carbon dioxide (CO₂) or silicone-based solvents like GreenEarth® Cleaning, which are gentler on fabrics and the environment.

This method is particularly ideal for delicate fabrics and garments with intricate details like lace, sequins, or embroidery. Not only does it help preserve their quality, but it also supports a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. Plus, green dry cleaning avoids the harsh odors and pollution associated with traditional methods. For example, GreenEarth’s silicone-based solution breaks down into sand, water, and CO₂, leaving no harmful residue behind.

How to Find a Green Dry Cleaner

Not all cleaners labeled as “green” or “organic” live up to the name. Some still use toxic chemicals, so it’s worth doing a little research to ensure you’re choosing a truly eco-friendly service. Ask about their cleaning methods – look for those that use wet cleaning or liquid CO₂ techniques.

“With GreenEarth, you won’t need to worry about skin irritation or lingering chemical smells on your clothing.” – GreenEarth Cleaning

Check their website for details about their processes, such as whether they recycle hangers or accept specific garment types. Taking these steps ensures your special thrifted finds get the care they deserve while keeping harmful chemicals out of the equation.

While green dry cleaning may cost a bit more, the benefits – prolonged garment life, reduced environmental impact, and peace of mind – make it worth the investment for those irreplaceable pieces.

 

Eco-Friendly Washing Additives Comparison

When washing thrifted clothes, picking the right eco-friendly additives can make a big difference in your laundry routine. Options like white vinegar, baking soda, and oxygen bleach each bring unique benefits to cleaning second-hand clothes while being mindful of your health and the planet.

White Vinegar
White vinegar is great for breaking down hard water stains and soap residue. It’s particularly effective at removing yellow underarm stains and tackling mildew odors. Adding 1/2 cup during the rinse cycle softens fabrics and helps with hard water deposits. However, it’s worth noting that vinegar can cause slight bleaching and may damage elastic materials over time.

Baking Soda
Baking soda is a go-to for neutralizing odors and gently lifting stains. It works well for removing musty smells and handling general stains on thrifted items. Adding 1/2 cup to your colored fabric washes can help freshen them up. While it’s excellent for absorbing stubborn oil and grease stains, baking soda can be too abrasive for delicate fabrics, potentially scratching or dulling them.

Oxygen Bleach
Made from sodium percarbonate, oxygen bleach breaks down into water, oxygen, and soda ash, making it a safer option compared to chlorine bleach. It’s gentle on fabrics, safe for colors, and effective on light stains, all while providing mild disinfecting properties. For best results, use oxygen bleach in warm water to activate its cleaning power. You can also make a paste for spot treatments or use a liquid version for overall laundry care.

The table below outlines the strengths, ideal uses, and limitations of each additive to help you decide what works best for your needs.

Additive	Best For	Key Benefits	Limitations	Suggested Use
White Vinegar	Hard water stains, soap residue, odors	Softens fabrics naturally and removes residue	May bleach some fabrics; can harm elastics	1/2 cup in rinse cycle
Baking Soda	Odor removal, grease stains, and general use	Neutralizes odors and lifts stains	Can scratch delicate surfaces; dulls fine fabrics	1/2 cup per load
Oxygen Bleach	Stain removal, whitening, disinfecting	Safe for colors, eco-friendly, effective on light stains	Works slower than chlorine bleach; needs warm water	Follow package directions

 

For oxygen bleach, warm water is key to activating its stain-fighting properties. Also, avoid mixing baking soda and vinegar in your laundry. While it might seem like a good idea, the reaction between the two neutralizes their cleaning power instead of boosting it.

“The 2016 American Association of Poison Control Centers reported more than 6,300 exposures to chlorine gas – with about 35% caused by mixing household cleaners – which makes these eco-friendly alternatives not only better for the environment but also significantly safer for your family”.

 

Conclusion

Taking proper care of thrifted clothes not only safeguards your health but also contributes to a more sustainable future. By following simple steps like reading care labels, using eco-friendly detergents, and air drying your garments, you can make your second-hand treasures last longer and reduce their environmental impact.

Did you know that extending a garment’s life by just nine months can cut its carbon, waste, and water footprints by 20–30%? Meanwhile, producing a single cotton shirt requires over 700 gallons of water. On top of that, 85% of textiles end up in landfills annually, and less than 1% of clothing materials are recycled, leading to over $100 billion in lost material value. These stats highlight how proper garment care can play a big role in reducing waste and conserving resources.

When you care for your thrifted finds, you’re also supporting the mission of Red Racks Thrift Stores. Their dedication to community service and environmental responsibility has been evident through initiatives like supporting veterans. Every purchase or donation at their Missouri locations directly impacts those who have served our country, while also promoting a circular economy.

“The most sustainable garment is the one we already own … [and that] repairing, rewearing, reusing, and renting are preferable to recycling or discarding clothes” – Environmental Audit Committee

This philosophy perfectly aligns with what Red Racks Thrift Stores stands for: giving quality items a second life while making a positive impact on the community. By washing thrifted clothes in cold water, adding natural ingredients like white vinegar or baking soda, and opting to air dry, you’re actively participating in a movement that benefits both the planet and people.

The second-hand market is on the rise, with projections showing it will double by 2027 to reach $351 billion. This growth reflects a shift in consumer priorities, as 69% of people globally believe sustainability begins with individual actions. By shopping at Red Racks Thrift Stores and caring for your purchases responsibly, you’re taking meaningful steps toward a more sustainable lifestyle.

 

FAQs

Why should I use eco-friendly detergents to wash thrifted clothes?

When washing thrifted clothes, opting for eco-friendly detergents is a smart move. These detergents are gentle on fabrics, helping to preserve the quality, texture, and color of second-hand items. Plus, they’re free from harsh chemicals, making them kinder to both your skin and the environment.

Another bonus? Eco-friendly detergents are biodegradable, which means they break down more easily and help reduce water pollution. This is especially crucial when washing synthetic fabrics, as it can limit the release of microplastics into waterways. By choosing environmentally conscious laundry products, you’re not just taking care of your thrifted treasures – you’re also doing your part for the planet.

What’s the best way to remove stubborn odors from thrifted clothes without causing damage?

To get rid of stubborn odors from thrifted clothes, start by soaking them in a solution of one part white vinegar and four parts water for around 30 minutes. This simple step works to neutralize odors naturally. Once soaked, wash the clothes with a mild detergent and toss in half a cup of baking soda during the wash cycle to tackle any remaining smells. For an added touch of freshness, hang the clothes to air dry in direct sunlight – sunlight not only dries but also helps kill bacteria and odors.

If the smell still lingers, try sealing the garment in a bag with activated charcoal or a small container of baking soda for a few days. These methods are gentle on fabrics and work well to absorb any lingering odors.

What are the advantages of air drying thrifted clothes instead of using a dryer?

Air drying thrifted clothes comes with some clear perks compared to tossing them in the dryer. For starters, it helps maintain the shape, softness, and stretchiness of fabrics, which means less risk of shrinkage or damage from intense heat. This is especially handy for those delicate or vintage pieces you often score at thrift stores.

On top of that, air drying is a more budget-friendly and environmentally conscious choice. It cuts down on energy use, which not only saves you money on your utility bills but also reduces your carbon footprint. And here’s another bonus: skipping the dryer’s heat can help your clothes last longer. That means your thrifted treasures stay in great shape for years to come.