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How to Eliminate Odors in the Home: Expert Tips, Natural Solutions & Best Air Fresheners

A fresh-smelling home isn’t just inviting—it’s essential for comfort and well-being. Yet, stubborn odors can linger in every room, from musty closets to smoky kitchens and pet-friendly corners. Whether you’re looking for natural ways to get rid of household odors or the best air fresheners for home, this guide covers proven odor removal tips for kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and more.

Table of Contents:

  1. Identifying & Removing the Source of Bad Smells
  2. Natural Ways to Get Rid of Household Odors
  3. Room-by-Room Odor Removal Tips
    • Kitchen
    • Bathroom
    • Bedroom & Bedding  
    • Closets & Laundry 
    • Fabric Furniture & Carpet
  4. How to Neutralize Pet Odors (Dogs, Cats)
  5. How to Get Rid of Cigarette Smoke Smell in House
  6. Removing Musty Smells from Closets and Basements
  7. Best Products for Eliminating Mildew and Mold Odors
  8. DIY Air Freshener Solutions & Store-Bought Options
  9. Tips to Keep Your House Smelling Fresh Naturally
  10. FAQs: Preventing Recurring Home Odors

1. Identifying & Removing the Source of Bad Smells

Before you reach for an air freshener, always identify and remove the source of the odor. Common culprits include:

  • Kitchen: Refrigerator, garbage cans, sinks, and disposals
  • Bathroom: Drains, toilets, laundry hampers
  • Living Spaces: Fabric furniture, carpet, closets, bedding, and pet areas

Pro Tip: Start by decluttering and ventilating. Open windows for fresh air while you hunt down the cause.

 

2. Natural Ways to Get Rid of Household Odors

Looking for natural odor removers that are safe, effective, and easy to use? Try these:

Baking Soda Odor Absorber

  • Place open bowls or boxes of baking soda in problem areas (fridge, closets, carpets).
  • Sprinkle on soft surfaces, let sit, and vacuum after a few hours for best results.

White or Apple Cider Vinegar

  • Mix with water to spray on fabrics or surfaces.
  • Simmer a pot of vinegar on the stove to neutralize kitchen odors.

Coffee Grounds

  • Set out used coffee grounds in a bowl to absorb smells—great for the fridge or shoe cabinets.

Incense & Essential Oils

  • Burn incense or diffuse oils for a quick burst of fragrance. Remember: these mask rather than remove odors.

3. Room-by-Room Odor Removal Tips

Odor Removal Tips for Kitchen  

  • Trash Cans: Clean regularly with vinegar or baking soda. Use liners and deodorizing sprays.
  • Cooking Smells: Ventilate while cooking. Simmer citrus peels or cinnamon for a pleasant scent.
  • Refrigerator: Toss expired food. Place an open box of baking soda odor absorber inside or specialized product fridge eliminator.

Odor Removal Tips for Bathroom  

  • Drains: Unclog and clean with mild solutions, avoiding harsh chemicals.
  • Mildew & Mold: Use vinegar or a specialized mildew odor eliminator. Ensure the space is well-ventilated.

Odor Removal Tips for Bedroom & Bedding

  • Bedding: Bedding: Wash sheets and covers weekly. Use fabric odor eliminator for freshening between washes. 
  • Mattresses: Sprinkle baking soda, mist with vinegar solution, let air dry in sunlight.

Remove Musty Smells from Closets and Laundry

  • Clear out and clean closets with vinegar and water.
  • Use fabric fresheners for clothes and shoes.

Best Fabric and Carpet Odor Eliminators

  • Vacuum fabric furniture and carpets often.
  • Use carpet odor eliminators for spills and persistent smells.

4. How to Neutralize Pet Odors (Dogs, Cats)

Pets are lovable, but their odors aren’t! Here’s how to keep your house fresh:

  • Dog Odors: Sweep/vacuum floors and wash pet bedding weekly. Use dog odor eliminators for spot cleaning.
  • Cat Odors: Scoop litter daily, change regularly, and use enzymatic cleaners for accidents. Try a cat odor eliminator.
  • Cages & Habitats: Replace bedding in small pet cages twice a week. Scrub cages with mild soap and water.

5. How to Get Rid of Cigarette Smoke Smell in House

Cigarette smoke is one of the toughest odors to remove. Try these steps:

  • Remove and wash all washable items (curtains, cushions, covers).
  • Clean walls, ceilings, and hard surfaces with a vinegar solution.
  • Use a smoke odor absorber specifically designed for tobacco smells.
  • Ventilate the space thoroughly and consider professional deep cleaning for persistent smoke odors.

6. Removing Musty Smells from Closets and Basements

Musty odors often signal excess humidity or hidden mold. To get rid of musty smells:

  • Open windows and doors for ventilation.
  • Place bowls of baking soda or activated charcoal in closets and basements.
  • Spray with a vinegar and water solution and leave to air dry.
  • For recurring issues, check for leaks or consult a mold remediation expert.

7. Best Products for Eliminating Mildew and Mold Odors

Mildew and mold not only smell bad but can also be hazardous. Use:

  • White vinegar or specialized mildew odor eliminators for mild cases.
  • For fabrics, fabric odor eliminators are effective.
  • Always address the moisture source to prevent recurring home odors.

8. DIY Air Freshener Solutions & Store-Bought Options

DIY Air Freshener Solutions

  • Simmer citrus peels, cinnamon, or cloves for a natural scent.
  • Mix essential oils with water in a spray bottle for a quick room refresher.

Best Air Fresheners for Home

For long-lasting results, consider ELIX home odor eliminators designed for every room and surface. Our collection includes:

Explore our full range for the best air fresheners for home.

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9. Tips to Keep Your House Smelling Fresh Naturally

  • Clean up spills and stains immediately.
  • Wash bedding, curtains, and soft furnishings regularly.
  • Use odor absorber in hidden areas.
  • Ventilate your home daily, even in winter.
  • Use natural air fresheners for a gentle, continuous scent.

10. FAQs: Preventing Recurring Home Odors

Q: How can I prevent recurring home odors?

A: Regular cleaning, moisture control, and proper ventilation are key. Use odor-absorbing products in trouble spots.

Q: Which is better—DIY or commercial odor eliminators?

A: DIY solutions like baking soda and vinegar work great for minor odors. For stubborn or recurring issues, try specialized home odor eliminators.

Q: What’s the best way to keep my house smelling fresh naturally?

A: Consistent cleaning, open windows, and the use of natural air fresheners will help keep your space inviting.

Conclusion

Eliminating odors in the home isn’t just about masking smells—it’s about finding and fixing the source, using the right natural or commercial products, and maintaining a routine that keeps every room fresh. Whether you’re battling pet odors, musty closets, or lingering smoke, these odor removal tips for kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and beyond will make your home a more pleasant place to be.

Ready for a fresher home?

Explore our full range of best air fresheners for home and discover the perfect solution for your needs!

Looking for more expert advice?

Check out our World of Fragrances blog for the latest tips, tricks, and product recommendations.