Why Does New Denim Smell Weird?
Here’s What You Should Know
You finally get the denim you’ve been waiting for. You open the bag, excited to try it on…and then ― A sharp, almost sour, chemical-like smell hits you.
You might wonder:
“Is this okay?”
“Did I get a bad batch?”
Don’t worry. That smell is actually a sign of authentic, well-made denim.
01 - The Source of the Smell
That unique scent in raw or unwashed denim comes from three main things:
- Indigo dye: The smell often lingers from the dyeing process, especially when it’s been done to reduce fading.
- Resins & starch: Used to give denim that signature crispness and structured feel.
- Anti-mold or anti-insect agents: Sometimes applied to prevent damage during overseas transport.
So it’s not a defect? ― it’s actually the result of proper finishing and protective treatment during transit.
Also, when you buy online, the denim often arrives tightly sealed, which makes the smell stronger when first opened.
02 - How to Get Rid of the Smell
The simplest fix: Air it out
Hang your denim in a well-ventilated, shaded area for a day or two.
The smell often fades on its own.
Tip:
If the smell lingers, try one of the following gentle methods:
A: Baking Soda Soak (for odor neutralizing)
- 1. Turn your jeans inside out and fold them neatly.
- 2. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the surface.
- 3. Submerge in hot water (not boiling?just enough to produce steam).
Use tongs or chopsticks instead of bare hands. - 4. Let it soak for 20?30 minutes in a well-ventilated space.
If color bleeding occurs, repeat the process until the water runs clear. - 5. Gently scrub with a bar soap.
- 6. Machine wash with mild detergent and hang dry in the shade.
Wash separately from lighter-colored clothes to avoid dye transfer.
B: Hand Wash with Gentle Detergent
You can also hand wash the denim using a neutral detergent made for delicates.
It’s a softer option for those with sensitive skin?and often leaves a pleasant, mild scent.
- 01: Mix a small amount into water and soak the cap
- 02: Lightly scrub the sweatband and inner areas
- 03: Rinse thoroughly and pat dry
- *For stubborn spots, apply detergent directly before scrubbing.
03 - Final Thoughts
That distinct scent in new denim?
It’s not a flaw?it’s a feature. It signals that your jeans haven’t been overly processed. The dye and finishing touches are still intact, preserving the character of the fabric. That rawness is part of what makes real denim special?and part of the fun of breaking it in.
With time, the scent fades. What stays is denim that wears in beautifully, telling your story as you live in it.
