Does Dry Cleaning Remove Smell?

We’ve all been there—you pull a favourite blazer, dress, or suit from your wardrobe and notice it smells… off. Whether it’s the lingering scent of perfume, body odour, smoke, mildew, or food, the question arises: does dry cleaning remove smell from clothes?

The short answer is yes—but with conditions. Dry cleaning is a highly effective method for removing many types of odours, especially those caused by oil-based substances, bacteria, and everyday wear. However, the success of odour removal depends on the source of the smell, the fabric type, and the method your dry cleaner uses.

In this guide, we’ll break down how dry cleaning tackles smells, when it works best, and what to do if stubborn odours won’t go away.

What Is Dry Cleaning, and How Does It Work?

Dry cleaning is a non-water-based garment cleaning process that uses solvents instead of water to remove stains, dirt, and oils from delicate fabrics. Unlike washing machines, dry cleaners use specialised solutions like perchloroethylene (perc) or hydrocarbon solvents that dissolve oils and lift out grime without damaging the fabric’s texture or structure.

Dry cleaning machines also include hot air drying and deodorising cycles, which help remove moisture and neutralise odours.

Can Dry Cleaning Remove Smell?

In most cases yes, dry cleaning can effectively remove smell, including:

• Body odour

• Sweat smell

• Perfume and cologne

• Cooking smells (like curry or fried food)

• Smoke or cigarette odour

• Musty smells from storage

• Light mildew odour

These odours are typically trapped in oils or dirt on the garment, and dry cleaning solvents do a great job breaking down these substances, leaving your clothing clean and fresh.

When Dry Cleaning Works Well for Smell Removal

• The smell is caused by oils, body sweat, perfume, or smoke

• The item is dry-clean-only and made from wool, silk, rayon, or blends

• The garment has not been previously laundered incorrectly

• The odour is light to moderate and hasn’t deeply penetrated the fabric

When Dry Cleaning May Not Fully Remove Smells

• The smell is from deep-set mildew or mold

• The odour is caused by pet urine, vomit, or heavy smoke damage

• The garment has multiple layers or thick padding (e.g. duvets, jackets)

• The item has been stored in a humid or unclean environment for a long time

In such cases, dry cleaners may use additional deodorising treatments or recommend specialised cleaning methods.

What Methods Do Dry Cleaners Use to Remove Odours?

1. Standard Dry Cleaning Process

The basic solvent-and-heat cycle removes:

• Body odour

• Sweat

• Oil-based smells

Most garments come out smelling fresh after this process.

2. Ozone Treatment or Odour Neutralising Spray

For more persistent smells, many modern dry cleaners use:

• Ozone treatment – Uses ozone gas to kill bacteria and remove stubborn smells

• Activated carbon or enzyme-based sprays to neutralise deep-set odours

• Steam finishing which helps release trapped particles and odours

Ask your local dry cleaner if they offer special odour removal services for best results.

3. Spot Cleaning for Problem Areas

If only a small part of the garment smells (like underarms or collar), the cleaner may:

• Apply a targeted deodorising solution

• Brush or steam the fabric

• Re-dry clean the garment with extra cycles

How to Keep Clothes Smelling Fresh Between Cleanings

Even after dry cleaning, you’ll want to maintain that freshness. Here’s how:

1. Store clothes in breathable garment bags

2. Use fabric-safe deodorisers or sachets in wardrobes

3. Avoid wearing strong colognes or perfumes directly on fabric

4. Hang clothing in fresh air after wearing

5. Don’t put clothes back in the wardrobe without airing them out

When Should You Take Clothes to a Professional?

Here are some signs it’s time to hand over the garment to a professional cleaner:

• The smell persists even after washing at home

• The garment is made of dry-clean-only fabric

• It’s a valuable or delicate item (like a blazer, dress, or silk blouse)

• The odour is combined with stains or fabric yellowing

• You’ve tried DIY hacks, and they haven’t worked

Our Expert Tip

At Elegance Dry Cleaners, we don’t just clean garments; we restore freshness and confidence. Our professional dry cleaning services remove odours effectively without damaging your clothing. Whether it’s a smoke-smelling coat or a sweat-stained suit, we’ve got you covered.

Need help with lingering odours? Trust the experts at dry cleaners in Clapham to revive your wardrobe the right way.

Final Thoughts

So, does dry cleaning remove smell? Absolutely—in most cases. From body odour to food smells and cigarette smoke, professional dry cleaning can significantly improve the freshness of your clothing without damaging delicate fabrics.

However, for more severe or chemical-based odours, ask your dry cleaner about specialised deodorising treatments to get the job done properly.

For long-lasting freshness and care, your best bet is to work with a reputable dry cleaning service that offers tailored odour removal options like Elegance Dry Cleaners.

Disclaimer: All the information provided in this article on whether dry cleaning removes smell is general in nature.