COSTUME TIP - Vodka Spray

PLEASE NOTE: for delicates - test patch and try almost pure alcohol as sometimes water can leave a ring if the garment is super delicate.

One of the first things you learn in the film world of costuming extras and background is that the entire background cast clothing cannot feasibly be washed and turned over for use overnight.

Whilst some productions do have overnight crews (people who come in and launder everything fresh for the following day), most productions stick to this method.

When there are 600 extras and they will be on all week we wash clothing that touches skin such as undershirts, chemises, socks, singlets etc and vodka spray the rest making sure the pits and areas of heavy sweat are targeted fully. Clothing can then be turned over or sent out for dry cleaning when that scene has been shot or there are days between shooting.

The vodka, like most alcohols, is a natural disinfectant, and it evaporates quickly. It has the least amount of colour and aroma of alcohols. The vodka works at killing (ie eating) the bacteria that cause odor, so it works to freshen rather than clean sweat patches. 
The eucalyptus oil also works as a natural disinfectant killing germs and deodorising.

The addition of other oils such as lavender adds extra aroma notes and other antibacterial properties dependant on the oil.

All mixed into a spray bottle and sprayed at the end of the filming day left to air overnight.

The stunt boys also find it handy to spray their personal hard stunt pads with so they reduce amount of cleaning.

PLEASE NOTE: for delicates - test patch and try almost pure alcohol as sometimes water can leave a ring if the garment is super delicate.

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