There are many simple and inexpensive ways to eliminate nasty odours around the home. From smelly fridges to wet dogs, there are eco-friendly ways to conquer odours and keep the whole house smelling clean.
Eliminating Bad Odours
If last night’s supper is still wafting through the kitchen there are a few different methods that can be used to cut the smell.
- For overpowering odours that simply will not go away, burn a few pieces of bread in the toaster. Be careful hat they do not catch on fire in the process. Burnt toast is known to absorb odours and dissipate quickly.
- For weaker smells add orange or lemon peels to a few inches of water in an uncovered pot. Toss in cinnamon or nutmeg and let simmer until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Turn the heat off and the wonderful citrus scent will spread throughout the house.
Cleaning the Fridge
Even a fridge that has been cleaned of any nasty produce or leftovers can still smell. After ensuring that there is nothing left in the appliance that can be causing ongoing smells, try the following.
- Pour baking soda into a bowl and set it on a shelf for a day or two.
- Stronger smells may require tougher deodorizers. Place a dish of dry unused coffee grounds into the fridge for a few days to absorb scents. For best results use freshly ground beans.
- Another option is to place two or three barbeque briquettes on a plate and let them sit for at least 24 hours.
Tips for Freshening the Whole Home
- Fill a clean spray bottle with water and add 10 to 12 drops of a favourite essential oil. Use the same way as a commercially prepared air freshener.
- Get rid of lingering odours in the microwave by heating up a bowl containing water and a wedge of lemon or orange
- If large appliances such as fridges and freezers are not being used, clean them thoroughly and place a dish of clean cat litter inside to absorb smells.
- Disperse general kitchen odours by filling a glass or cup with white vinegar and letting it sit on the counter.
- Eliminate fish and other strong scents from cutting boards and wooden utensils by rubbing them with a piece of lemon.
- After cleaning garbage cans, tuck a piece of paper dabbed with essential oil underneath the garbage bag
- Make homemade scented sachets from fresh or dried lavender. Cut the buds off and let them dry thoroughly before placing in small bags of thin material such as cotton or muslin. Tie with a pretty ribbon and they are nice enough to use as housewarming gifts.
- Choose a relaxing essential oil and add a few drops to bathwater for a warm scent filled experience that will leave the bathroom smelling great.
- Add a few drops of essential oil to the dust bag on the vacuum; the scent will be distributed as the house is cleaned.
- Spray or drizzle some perfume or essential oil (check for colourfastness first) on lampshades, as they warm up they will spread the scent.
These easy and inexpensive methods work just as well as commercially bought fresheners and are healthier for families and household pets as they are natural and do not contain any harmful chemicals.
Amanda Jacobs - Amanda is an experienced writer and trainer and is happy to be able to combine both passions here at Suite101.
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