Funny but Gentle Ways to Tell Someone They Smell

Let’s face it, nobody enjoys telling someone they smell. But with a little creativity and humor, you can get the message across without hurting their feelings and maybe even turn it into a funny shared memory.

Funny Ways to Tell Someone They Smell

I get it, wanting to add humor is cool, but we’ve got to be careful not to crack jokes that might hurt or embarrass, especially when it comes to sensitive stuff like personal hygiene.

Making fun of smells can go wrong and mess up relationships. Instead of going down that road, let’s think of something gentle and more helpful manners to deal with the situation. Here are a few polite ways to say it:

“Hey, I just wanted to let you know that you have a bit of a…strong odor. Maybe freshen up a bit before heading out?” (Done privately and kindly.)
“My nose is telling me you had a particularly adventurous day… can I guess what kind?” (Make it a fun game!)
“Wow, your aura is really strong today! Did you accidentally bathe in gym sweat?”

Specific for Partner

A direct and respectful approach is always best, avoiding any jokes that could be hurtful or embarrassing. However, if you’re looking for a lighthearted way to nudge your partner towards a shower, here are a few playful options:

“Honey, you know I love you like stink, but today, the love is getting kinda one-sided.”
“I think your perfume bottle must have leaked pheromones because all I can smell is raw attraction…and maybe a hint of gym socks.”
“Don’t worry, I understand. We can’t all be fresh roses every day. Sometimes we’re wilted daisies, and other times we’re full-blown compost heaps.”
“Let’s be honest, who needs fancy perfumes when we have each other’s natural musk? It’s like our own signature love potion.”
“Is that you or the compost bin giving off that earthy aroma?” (Follow up with a wink and a hug!)
“Did you know you have a built-in mosquito repellent? Because I haven’t seen a single one since I got close to you.”
“Remember that time I said you smell like sunshine and roses? Well, maybe today the roses wilted in a heatwave.”
“Hmm, something interesting is blooming here… is it you, or a forgotten gym bag?”

To Family Member

“Hey, I noticed a bit of a strong smell coming from you, not sure if its bad or good. Did you maybe forget to shower/use deodorant today?”
“Just a friendly heads-up, you seem to have a bit of a fragrance going on. Maybe a quick refresh would be good?”
“Hey, I noticed a strong smell you might not be aware of…” or “Just wanted to let you know, your usual deodorant might not be holding up today.” (Talk privately and express your concerns.)
“Is that you, [family member’s name]? I thought the garbage truck came early today!” (Followed by a laugh and maybe offering some deodorant.)
“Wow, the aroma in this room is intense! Can we blame it on the leftover [mention a recent meal] or is someone hiding a skunk under their chair?” (Lighthearted and makes everyone laugh.)
“Is everything okay? You seem a bit flushed and sweaty. Maybe take a quick shower and change clothes?” (Concerned tone without directly mentioning the odor.)

To Co-worker

I would strongly advise against directly telling a coworker they smell. It could be hurtful and awkward, and even if intended as a joke, it could harm your working relationship. Instead, I can offer some alternative options that are more tactful and less likely to offend:

Casually slip them a scented air freshener with a note saying, “Thought your workspace could use a little extra fragrance today!”
Place a sticky note on their desk saying, “Just a gentle reminder: Deodorant – because teamwork doesn’t mean sharing scents.”
Present them with a nicely wrapped scented candle, stating, “Found this little gem and thought it might brighten your workspace.”
Create a small ‘aromatherapy kit’ with scented lotions, and colognes, and discreetly leave it on their desk, saying, “Just a little something to make your workspace smell as awesome as you do!”
Leave a stick of deodorant on their desk with a note saying, “Found this lying around. Thought it might come in handy. You know, just in case.”

Friends

Instead of focusing on the smell itself, consider using playful observations or witty remarks that gently encourage them to freshen up. Here are some ideas:

“Wow, it’s so hot in here… I think I’m starting to smell like your gym bag”
“My allergies must be acting up again. Everything smells like… cheese? Socks? A combination of both?”
Casually leave a pack of breath mints on their desk with a note saying, “Just in case!”
“I think your nose is broken, buddy. You’re missing out on the wonderful aroma of… well, not you.”
“I’m not sure what’s more impressive, your ability to clear a room with your scent, or my ability to hold my breath this long.”
“I’m impressed! You’ve managed to weaponize your scent. Consider applying for a biohazard license.”

Remember, the key is to keep it light and avoid being hurtful. Use your best judgment and consider the personality of that person to choose the approach that will work best for them.

And if you’re worried about offending them, maybe a more direct and empathetic approach is better. Something like, “Hey, I just wanted to let you know, you seem to be having a bit of a fragrance situation. No judgment, but maybe freshening up a bit would be a good idea?”

Ultimately, open and honest communication is always best, and you can always follow up with a supportive offer to help them find solutions if needed.