Smell is often called humans’ most powerful sense, and good (and bad) smells tell us a lot about the world: what we should eat, even whom we should kiss. When it comes to our homes, if a space smells fresh, that’s a great sign. If the smell is bad? We feel uneasy.
Tackle the bad…
Deal with moisture.
It’s the number one cause of household odors, says Rachel Hoffman, the author of the (bluntly yet inspirationally named) book Unf*ck Your Habitat: Consider using a hygrometer to test the humidity level in each room—if you discover a room with humidity above 60 percent, you may want to use a dehumidifier. If needed, you can run more than one dehumidifier, but note that they can use a lot of energy: Start with one and see how it goes.
Out with the obvious.
Spots like litter boxes, garbage cans, pet beds, and diaper pails are all places that give off funky smells. Duh, you might say, but unfortunately, the more time we spend around these things, the less likely we are to realize that they stink.
Clean soft surfaces.
Carpets, throw pillows, upholstery, bed linens, and window covers are magnets for smells. Once a spill dries or dirt gets wiped away, odor-causing bacteria can still stay behind. In carpets, a missed stain can lead to mold or mildew. Maker recommends having a professional steam-clean your upholstery and carpets once a year. For throw pillows, bed linens, and window covers, check the fabric care labels to see if they can be machine-washed. “But remember there are certain items best left to a pro to ensure the job gets done right.
The easiest way to avoid smells in a carpet is to quickly attack any spill. Biological stains, like an accident from a pet or a child, should be treated with an enzyme cleaner
Bring in the good…
Open the window.
It’s the easiest way to bring freshness in, especially if you have leftover cooking smells or lingering odors from home improvement projects such as painting. Opening a window makes your entire space feel cleaner and helps lift the mood in your home. If possible, open windows on multiple sides of your home to get a cross breeze. Even if it’s freezing outside, cracking a window for a short while can make a difference.
Try a neutralizer.
If you love the idea of a home that smells perfectly like nothing, then look for odor neutralizers that don’t add a scent. Activated charcoal filters that come in small bags you can hang in stink-prone rooms or stash in a gym bag. “They’re good especially in areas like diaper pails, garbage, and litter boxes. In a pinch, fill your sink with hot water and a few drops of bleach, and drain it before company arrives. “Just the smell of cleaner will make people think your home is clean.
Find subtle ways to scent.
It’s a common misconception that in order for your home to smell “good,” the smell has to envelop you the second you walk through the door. The opposite is actually true. You’re after a general feeling of energy, relaxation, or whatever your intention for the space is. This also ensures you’re taking your guests into consideration. Some may have allergies or sensitivities to strong smells, and you don’t want to make them uncomfortable in your home.
For that reason, it’s a good idea to stay away from overly sweet, cloying smells when scenting your home. If you love your sugar apple cinnamon candle,save that for times when you’re home on your own. “I’m a fan of having a library of scents.Your sweet favorite can serve as your personal mood booster, which is exactly what a good smell should do.
For times when you’re sharing your space, however, steering clear of sugary scents and sticking to more natural ones, like woods, florals, and citrus. “You can still get a similar feeling as you do with the sugary-smelling scents,”But the result will be longer lasting and more impactful.” In other words, a home that smells as good as it looks.
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