How to Get the Smell of Cannabis Off Your Hands and Clothes

Cannabis has a distinct and lingering odor that can cling to your hands and clothes long after a session. Whether you're trying to be discreet, eliminate the smell for personal comfort, or avoid unwanted attention, there are several effective methods to remove the scent. In this guide, we'll explore practical ways to get rid of cannabis odors from your hands and clothing using natural remedies, store-bought solutions, and preventative measures.

Removing the Smell of Cannabis from Your Hands

Cannabis contains terpenes, aromatic compounds that contribute to its strong scent. These compounds can stick to your skin, making it difficult to remove the odor with just water. Here are the best ways to eliminate the smell from your hands.

1. Wash Your Hands with Soap and Water

The simplest and most effective way to remove cannabis odor from your hands is by washing them thoroughly with soap and warm water. Follow these steps:

• Use a liquid or bar soap with strong cleansing properties, such as antibacterial or citrus-based soap.
• Scrub your hands, focusing on your fingers and under your nails.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.

2. Use Lemon or Citrus Juice

Citrus fruits contain natural oils that help break down and neutralize strong odors. Try this method:

• Cut a lemon, lime, or orange in half.
• Rub the fruit directly on your hands.
• Let the juice sit for a minute, then rinse with warm water and soap.

3. Try Baking Soda and Water

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs and neutralizes odors.

• Mix equal parts baking soda and water to create a paste.
• Rub the paste on your hands and let it sit for a minute.
• Rinse off with warm water and soap.

4. Use Hand Sanitizer or Alcohol-Based Wipes

Hand sanitizers with high alcohol content can break down cannabis terpenes.

• Apply a generous amount of hand sanitizer.
• Rub thoroughly until dry.
• Repeat if necessary.

5. Coffee Grounds Scrub

Coffee grounds have strong odor-absorbing properties and can exfoliate your hands.

• Take a handful of used coffee grounds.
• Rub them on your hands for about a minute.
• Rinse off with warm water and soap.

Removing Cannabis Smell from Clothes

Cannabis smoke and terpenes can cling to fabrics, making clothes smell even after the smoke has cleared. Here’s how to remove the odor effectively.

1. Air Out Your Clothes

The first and easiest method is to let your clothes breathe.

• Hang them outside in fresh air for a few hours.
• If outdoors isn’t an option, hang them near an open window with good airflow.

2. Use Vinegar in the Wash

White vinegar is a natural deodorizer that can remove stubborn smells.

• Add one cup of white vinegar to the washing machine.
• Use regular detergent and wash as usual.
• Dry in fresh air if possible.

3. Try Baking Soda in the Wash

Baking soda neutralizes odors and enhances detergent effectiveness.

• Add half a cup of baking soda to your laundry load.
• Wash as usual and dry completely.

4. Use Odor-Eliminating Sprays

Fabric sprays like Febreze or DIY solutions can help freshen up clothing.

• Spray clothes lightly with an odor-neutralizing spray.
• Let them air dry before wearing.

5. Steam or Heat Treatment

Heat can help break down odor-causing compounds.

• Use a steam cleaner or hang your clothes in the bathroom while taking a hot shower.
• Alternatively, toss them in the dryer with dryer sheets for 10-15 minutes.

6. Activated Charcoal or Baking Soda Absorption

If you can’t wash your clothes right away:

• Place them in a bag with an open container of baking soda or activated charcoal overnight.
• Shake out the clothes before wearing.

Preventative Measures to Reduce Cannabis Odor

To minimize lingering cannabis odors on your hands and clothes, consider these preventive strategies:

1. Use a Smoking Jacket

Wear a designated jacket or hoodie that you remove after smoking.

2. Use Gloves

If handling cannabis, use disposable gloves to prevent direct contact with your hands.

3. Smoke in a Well-Ventilated Area

Smoking outdoors or near an open window helps prevent smoke from clinging to fabrics.

4. Use a Sploof or Air Purifier

Devices like sploofs (homemade or store-bought) and air purifiers reduce lingering smoke and odors.

5. Keep a Change of Clothes Nearby

If you need to be odor-free after smoking, have a fresh outfit ready to change into.