I Make a Simple 3-Ingredient Spray to Refresh Clothes Without Washing

How often do you wash your clothes? Many of us tend to toss all our worn garments into the laundry basket every evening, even if we’ve only been out briefly. While basics like underwear should be washed after each wear, most other clothes can go longer between washes.

For example, denim jeans can often be worn four to five times before needing a wash, provided they aren’t stained. Yet, the idea of wearing previously worn clothes can feel unclean. Luckily, there’s an easy and effective alternative: a homemade refreshing spray that revitalizes your garments without a full wash.

This simple spray method was shared by Nicola Lewis on Instagram, who points out that many people “overwash” their clothes, unnecessarily increasing their utility bills. She advises, “Before you reach for the laundry basket, stop! Those jeans and jumpers you wore today? Not dirty, just need a bit of a refresh. Most jeans only need washing every 4-6 wears, and jumpers every 2-3.”

Here’s how to make your own linen spray:

Use a clean, empty spray bottle—either a new one or a thoroughly cleaned repurposed bottle (avoid any residue of chemicals).
Fill about three-quarters of the bottle with distilled water, which you can create by boiling water and letting it cool.
Add approximately 10 drops of your favorite essential oil to provide a pleasant scent.
Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of witch hazel or vodka, both of which help kill bacteria and extend the fragrance’s life.
Shake gently to mix.

Spray lightly onto clothes, linens, bedding, towels, curtains, or cushions to freshen them up. Avoid using it on delicate fabrics like silk, leather, suede, or velvet.

Viewers who tried this method were surprised by its effectiveness, with many admitting to overwashing their clothes and eager to reduce laundry loads. One commented, “What a great idea! I’ll definitely wear jumpers and sweatshirts longer now, as long as I don’t spill on them!” Another added, “I’m excited to try this—anything to cut down on my laundry!”

By adopting this simple spray, you can save water, energy, and extend your clothes’ lifespan while keeping them fresh between washes.