Every house has its own distinct aroma.
No matter how state-of-the-art your house is, odours normally develop, especially when you consider the unavoidable pet mess, full trash bin, kitchen and cooking aromas, plus pairs of stinky boots.
Although some odours require real elbow grease and patience to remove, there are many simple ways to regularly freshen the ambient air. Though you may be tempted to light a few fragrant candles or spray a bottle of room freshener for a quick fix, work your way down our list of other effective deodorising options to give your home that amazing scent:
1. Get rid off the garbage.
Have you noticed a stagnant odour in your kitchen? It’s possible that it’s the garbage disposal. Squeeze some lemon-scented dish soap into the garbage disposal, run the water, and then turn it on to remove the odour. You can also grind lemon or lime rind slivers in the bin followed by a large amount of water. If the odour persists, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the garbage disposal while it is running hot water.
2. Clean the carpets.
Plush carpets, unlike tile and hardwood floors, trap and retain odours, even after you’ve cleaned up food spills and pet messes. Sprinkle baking soda on the entire carpet to remove them. Gently work it into the pile in problem areas with a brush and leave it for 30 minutes to an hour before vacuuming. For the best suction and pickup, clean your vacuum’s dust cup and filter beforehand, or place it in a clean bag.
3. Clean the can.
It’s not surprising that the combination of food scraps, leftovers, and other garbage in your trash can produces an unpleasant odour. Sprinkle baking soda into it when you replace the liner or layer a little baking soda on top of the trash as it accumulates to help freshen it. Alternatively, place a deodorising pack or pod beneath the can’s liner. Wash both sides of the lid and around the rim, where stinky debris splashes and accumulates, and then use a disinfecting spray to kill any lingering odour-causing bacteria.
4. Simmer some zesty slices.
Slow cook water in a small saucepan with citrus slices and herbs, such as lavender or mint. The steam carries the sweet scent throughout your home, and the combination is easily customizable based on what ingredients you have on hand.
5. Candles in the corners.
Candles are an obvious choice for filling your home with a favourite aroma, but strategic placement is a simple way to increase their effectiveness. Place a few candles in places you wouldn’t expect to find them — but don’t light them. Try the linen closet or any other place where fabrics can absorb scents. Not only will you be greeted with a pleasant surprise every time you open the door, but your linens will carry the aroma with them wherever you use them.
6. Place some plants.
Indoor plants purify the air while instantly beautifying the environment. Many plants, such as jasmine, eucalyptus, and gardenias, have pleasant fragrances as well. Just make sure you’re ready to take care of them.
7. Hang a deodoriser on the heater.
Clip a car deodoriser to the metal slats of the air conditioning and heating vents. The scent will waft throughout the room as the air blows through. That way, you can scent your entire house in one fell swoop.
8. Clean your comfort room.
Mix 1/2 cup baking soda with 1/4 cup table salt to freshen (not unclog) drains and keep them flowing freely. Pour the mixture down the drain, then 1 cup of hot vinegar. There will be foam and bubbles. Allow it to stand for no more than 15 minutes. After that, run hot tap water for at least 15 to 30 seconds. This is especially useful for drains that are rarely used, such as those in guest bathrooms.
9. Deodorise with the dryer sheets.
Consider alternatives to the laundry room. Put a few dryer sheets in closets, dressers, and other small areas. Even after months of storage, it gives everything a fresh-from-the-laundry scent.
By following these simple DIY tips, you can now be more confident in welcoming visitors at your house. Keeping your home clean and fresh-smelling does not only help in uplifting your mood the moment you step inside. The most rewarding part is that it also does good for the whole family’s health and hygiene.