Hi! Good Morning! I'm from Corpus Christi, Tx.
 

Any ideas on how to get rid of the stench of old perfumes and colognes out of garage sale clothes? Saturday I stopped at one of a few garage sales (an estate sale to be exact) I soaked the clothes in vinegar and laundry detergent and then washed twice. I was really hoping to use these. 3 (2XL) men's VAN HEUSEN SHIRTS and 2 pair ladies plus-size jeans. They total about 4 yds of material for $8.00. Really would like to use them but the smell is still in the clothes (shirts and jeans). Got such a headache and sneezed and coughed til I was so stopped up. Left them outside. The smell is still in my laundry shed. I use unscented dryer sheets so as not to compromise (add to) the odor. The host of the garage sale said her mother and father only had one kind they each wore. Thank goodness! Can you imagine if they would've mixed the flavors?! If I can't get rid of the odor, I'll donate it to the local SA/GOODWILL.

Welcome from Adrian, MI

Hello and welcome from Minnesota!
Try soaking them in vinegar for a few days...and then wash them.
Then hang them out in the sunshine!!
You may have to do this several times before the smell leaves.
Good luck! :)

Have you tried Febreze?

Stuff them in a bin bag and throw in a box of baking soda - tie up and leave for a few days, then shake outside. Airing outside usually does the trick.

I just wanted to say hi and welcome to the board.

Welcome from Michigan:)

:) welcome from se TX -- good luck with the odor!!

Welcome from Minnesota and happy quilting :)