Keep your house Smelling Good!
1. Declutter and Deep Clean
Floors and Carpets: Vacuum and mop regularly. For carpets, sprinkle baking soda, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum to remove trapped smells.
Furniture and Upholstery: Clean soft furnishings with appropriate cleaners. Use baking soda on upholstered furniture to neutralize odors and treat humid woods.
Hard Surfaces: Wipe down countertops, shelves, and walls with a mixture of water and vinegar. Using Bleach gel to properly disinfect the surface is the optimal option. NEVER MIX VINEGAR OR AMMONIA WITH BLEACH, ALWAYS USE THEM SEPARATELY.
2. Improve Ventilation
Proper ventilation helps to dissipate bad smells:
Windows and Doors: Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate.
Fans and Ventilators: Use fans and exhaust ventilators to enhance airflow, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
3. Use Natural Deodorizers
Natural deodorizers can effectively neutralize odors without harsh chemicals:
Baking Soda: Place bowls of baking soda in odorous areas. It absorbs smells from the air.
Activated Charcoal: This can be placed in various spots to trap odors.
Essential Oils: Diffuse essential oils or place a few drops on cotton balls and strategically place them around the house.
Simmer Pots: Simmer water with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and citrus slices on the stove for a warm, inviting scent.
4. Adopt Regular Maintenance
Consistent cleaning and maintenance prevent odor buildup:
Garbage Disposal: Clean and deodorize garbage disposals with ice cubes, baking soda, and vinegar.
Refrigerator: Keep an open box of baking soda in the fridge to absorb odors. Clean it regularly to prevent food smells from lingering.
Laundry: Wash linens, curtains, and cushions regularly to keep them smelling fresh.
Eliminating Odors in the Basement
1. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is crucial for preventing musty odors:
Windows and Vents: If your basement has windows, open them regularly. Install vents or exhaust fans to improve airflow.
Dehumidifiers: Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels, which can help prevent mold growth and musty smells.
2. Regular Cleaning and Inspection
Regularly clean and inspect your basement to catch odor sources early:
Flooring and Walls: Sweep and mop floors. Clean walls with a vinegar solution to remove mildew.
Storage Areas: Organize stored items and use airtight containers to prevent moisture buildup.
3. Combat Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are common causes of foul odors in basements. Here’s how to eliminate them:
Identify and Fix Leaks: Check for water leaks in plumbing and foundations. Fixing these can prevent mold growth.
Mold Removal: Use a mixture of vinegar and water or commercial mold removers to clean moldy surfaces. Ensure the area is well-ventilated while cleaning.
Hydrogen Peroxide: For tougher mold, use 3% hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Spray on the mold, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub and wipe clean.
Ozone Generator: In extreme cases, an ozone generator can be an option. Just beware takes approximately 1,000 milligrams of ozone per hour (mg/hr) to kill airborne mold spores and surface mold in a typical 100 sq. ft. That amount of ozone can be lethal for Humans, Pets and Plants, so caution is imperative.
Preventive Measures: Install a sump pump if your basement is prone to flooding. Consider using mold-resistant paint for walls and floors & place bowls of baking soda or activated charcoal in different areas of the basement.
4. Pest Control
Inspect for Pests: Regularly inspect the attic for signs of pests, such as droppings, nests, or gnaw marks.
Seal Entry Points: Seal any gaps, cracks, or holes that pests can use to enter the attic. Use metal mesh or caulk to block these entry points.
Pest Deterrents: Use natural pest deterrents like peppermint oil or commercial repellents to keep pests away.
