Our Guide To Get Rid Of Unpleasant Household Odors

Nobody likes to stay inside or visit a smelly home. Anyone who enters could be turned off right away by the smell of must, smoke, pet scents, and other olfactory triggers.

Fortunately, you can get rid of the majority of offensive smells from mustiness to cigarette smoke without any hassle or price.

Continue reading and learn how to prevent and get rid of the bad smells in your home.

Most Common Sources of Bad Smells and How to Get Rid of Them

Unpleasant smells can come from various places. Here are some of the most common sources of bad smells and how to tackle them.

Smoke

Cigarette and cigar smoke can penetrate deep into fabrics, walls, and furniture. The cigarette’s lingering smell is particularly challenging because smoke particles are incredibly small and stick to surfaces.

Quick Solutions:

• Open windows and use fans to increase ventilation
• Place bowls of white vinegar around affected rooms overnight
• Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, let sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum

Deep Cleaning Method:

• Wash all washable fabrics in hot water with a cup of white vinegar
• Wipe down walls and hard surfaces with a mixture of warm water and dish soap
• Steam clean carpets and upholstery
• Replace air filters in your HVAC system

Vape Odors

While generally less persistent than cigarette smoke, vape odors can still linger, especially from sweet or fruity flavors that seem to stick to surfaces.

Elimination Steps:

• Increase air circulation with fans and open windows
• Use activated charcoal bags near vaping areas
• Clean surfaces with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent
• Place coffee grounds in small bowls around the room to absorb odors

Pet Smells

Pet odors can come from accidents, wet fur, litter boxes, or general pet dander buildup. These biological odors often require enzymatic cleaning.

Immediate Actions:

• Clean accidents immediately with paper towels
• Use enzymatic cleaners specifically designed for pet odors
• Wash pet bedding weekly in hot water

Prevention Tips:

• Groom pets regularly
• Vacuum carpets and furniture twice weekly
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters
• Keep litter boxes clean and well-ventilated

Rat/ Pest Infestation

A musty, wet-dog-like smell in your home may point to an infestation of rats, mice, squirrels, or similar pests.

Along with the odor, you may also notice urine smells, droppings, chewed wires, or damaged packages.

These are strong signs that pests are present, and the best way to handle them is to contact a professional pest control service for safe and effective removal.

• You should also read: Why Choose House Cleaning Services in Maryland for a Clean Home

Other pests can create odors too. Cockroaches often give off a strong, oily musk-like smell, which usually becomes noticeable only during an infestation.

Some roach species can even produce odor when only one is present. If you detect these smells, it’s best to call a pest control expert to eliminate the insects and their lingering scent.

Kitchen Odors

Cooking smells can quickly build up, but a few simple habits and remedies can keep your kitchen fresh.

During Cooking

• Use exhaust fans consistently
• Keep windows slightly open
• Simmer cinnamon sticks or vanilla extract for a pleasant aroma

After Cooking

• Boil 1 tsp white vinegar in half a pint of water to neutralize smells
• Leave bowls of coffee grounds or activated charcoal overnight
• Wipe down surfaces with lemon-water solution

Garbage Disposal

• Grind ice cubes with coarse salt to clean blades
• Run cold water and add citrus/orange peels
• Pour baking soda, then vinegar, let foam, rinse with water

Musty Smell

Mold spores are the most common cause of damp, musty odors in basements, bedrooms, and other poorly ventilated spaces.

One strong solution is using an ozone machine, which can kill germs, mold, and viruses.

However, ozone should never be used in areas with people or pets, as it is unsafe to breathe.

Because of this risk, it’s often safer to rely on a professional cleaning service in Maryland for serious mold or odor problems.

For a safer DIY option, mix clove oil with warm water and mist the affected area generously. If mold is visible, treat it right away.

Within 48 hours, the clove oil mixture will begin to destroy the mold, and the musty smell should fade in a few days.

For added freshness, keep windows open during the process to improve airflow.

Random Stench

You don’t have to live with unpleasant odors, even if you can’t find the exact source. A few simple steps can help eliminate these random smells:

1. Place charcoal briquettes in boxes under furniture, beds, or closets to absorb odors
2. Open windows to bring in fresh air and improve ventilation
3. If the smell lingers, wash clothes and fabrics in the area
4. Use a warm water and vinegar solution to wipe down hard surfaces
5. Vacuum thoroughly to remove trapped particles

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about keeping your home smelling fresh.

FAQ #1: What absorbs bad smells naturally?

Baking soda, vinegar, and activated charcoal absorb bad smells naturally. They neutralize odors instead of covering them up, making them safe and affordable choices.

FAQ #2: Are air fresheners enough to remove bad smells?

No, air fresheners only mask odors temporarily. To get rid of smells completely, you need to clean or remove the source of the odor.

FAQ #3: Why does my house still smell bad after cleaning?

Your house may still smell if the odor source hasn’t been addressed. Check hidden areas like drains, carpets, or walls.

Moisture and mold can also cause lingering smells even after surface cleaning.

Conclusion

Unwanted odors can come from smoke, pets, pests, or even everyday kitchen messes, but simple solutions like baking soda, vinegar, and regular cleaning can keep your home smelling fresh.

For stubborn smells that won’t go away, turning to professional help is often the best way to restore comfort.

Freshen Up Your Home with Ada Cleaning

When tough odors linger, Ada Cleaning Service in Maryland is here to help.

Our professional cleaners use safe, proven methods to leave your home spotless and fresh.

With our customizable cleaning services and transparent pricing, you can enjoy a healthier, cleaner space without the stress.