Your no smoking policy is so clear … just don’t do it! It’s on the listing. It’s in the binder. You have a sign on the wall. Yet, here you are — wondering how to get rid of smoke smell in the house. Your inconsiderate guests lit up a pack of smokes in the living room or sparked a doobie in the bedroom. Cigarette and marijuana smoke odors are notorious for their persistence, with an uncanny ability to seep into every nook and cranny.
Now, you’ve got 3 hours before the next guest checks in and the house stinks! What do you do? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricate world of banishing cigarette and marijuana smoke odors from your vacation rental property.
Let’s explore a range of solutions that span from natural remedies, harnessing the power of common household items, to cutting-edge technology that can help you regain control of your property’s atmosphere. With the right tools and strategies at your disposal, you can ensure that your guests step into a fresh, clean, and inviting Airbnb, VRBO, or vacation rental business — free from the lingering specter of previous smoking guests.
Natural Cleaning Products to Remove Smoke Odor From the Home
When it comes to naturally eliminating the pervasive odors of cigarette and marijuana smoke from your vacation rental property, a holistic approach is essential. These odors can be particularly stubborn and intrusive, infiltrating everything from curtains to upholstery, making it crucial to employ effective natural cleaning methods. If you want to know how to get rid of smoke smell in the house, here are some effective strategies.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal isn’t just for skincare; it’s a powerful natural deodorizer. Place small bowls or sachets filled with activated charcoal strategically throughout the property, especially in areas where smoke odors are most prevalent. Activated charcoal works by absorbing and trapping odorous particles, helping to cleanse the air.
Citrus-Based Cleaners
Citrus, with its natural deodorizing properties, can be a game-changer when tackling smoke odors. Create a citrus-based cleaning solution by mixing freshly squeezed citrus juice (lemon or orange) with water. Use this mixture to wipe down surfaces, including walls, countertops, and furniture. The citrus not only helps remove smoke residues but also leaves a refreshing and pleasant aroma.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are versatile and effective when it comes to combating smoke odors. Add a few drops of essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil to a spray bottle filled with water. Shake well and use this mixture to spritz curtains, upholstery, and carpets. Essential oils not only help neutralize odors but also infuse the property with a pleasing and soothing scent.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds, aside from perking up your mornings, can also be employed to tackle smoke odors. Fill small bowls or sachets with dry coffee grounds and place them strategically in rooms with persistent odors. The coffee grounds will absorb and neutralize the smoky scent effectively.
Fresh Air and Ventilation
Never underestimate the power of fresh air. Open windows and doors to allow for proper ventilation, especially after using any of the above methods. Letting in fresh air helps flush out lingering odors and circulates clean, outdoor air throughout your rental property.
Charcoal-Based Air Purifiers
Charcoal-based air purifiers, often referred to as activated carbon air purifiers, are specifically designed to absorb and neutralize odors, including those from cigarettes and marijuana. These devices use activated charcoal filters to trap and remove odorous particles from the air, leaving your property smelling fresh.
When asking “how to get rid of smoke smell in the house,” the key is to combine these natural cleaning methods and remedies for the most effective results. Consistency is essential, as it may take several rounds of cleaning and refreshing to completely rid your rental property of these stubborn odors. However, with patience and persistence, you can ensure that your guests are welcomed into a space that not only looks clean but smells fresh and inviting, regardless of any previous smoking activities.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
For a DIY approach, consider using a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Mix one cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide with two tablespoons of baking soda and a few drops of dish soap. Apply this solution to affected surfaces and let it sit for several hours before rinsing or wiping clean. This combination can be particularly effective at breaking down and eliminating smoke odors.
Boiling Vinegar on the Stove
Boiling a mixture of water and vinegar on the stove can help neutralize and eliminate smoke odors. The acetic acid in vinegar acts as a natural deodorizer. Meanwhile, the steam will help disperse the vinegar’s odor-neutralizing properties throughout your vacation rental property. It’s super easy. Just follow these steps:
- Combine equal parts water and white vinegar in a pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Allow it to simmer for at least 30 minutes.
Chemical Products and Sprays
While natural cleaning methods are often effective at mitigating smoke odors, sometimes the situation calls for more potent solutions, especially when dealing with persistent cigarette and marijuana smoke odors. When using chemical products and sprays to combat smoke odors, always prioritize safety. Ensure adequate ventilation, wear protective gear as recommended on product labels, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely.
It’s essential to strike a balance between effectively eliminating odors and maintaining a safe and healthy environment for your guests. If you want to know how to get rid of smoke smell in the house, these chemical products and sprays are specially formulated to combat these stubborn odors and can be a valuable addition to your arsenal:
Ozone Generators
Ozone generators are powerful devices that produce ozone, a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms. Ozone is highly effective at neutralizing smoke odors by chemically reacting with the odor molecules and breaking them down. However, it’s essential to use ozone generators with caution, as they should only be operated in unoccupied spaces due to potential health risks. After treatment, allow the property to air out thoroughly.
Odor-Neutralizing Sprays
There are various commercial odor-neutralizing sprays available on the market designed specifically for smoke odors. These sprays contain enzymes or chemicals that break down and neutralize odor-causing molecules. They are easy to use and can be applied to fabrics, carpets, and surfaces to eliminate smoke odors quickly.
Febreze is a household name when it comes to eliminating smoke odors with a spray. It works by trapping odor molecules in a donut-shaped chemical compound called a cyclodextrin, which effectively neutralizes the odor. Febreze offers a range of products, including fabric refreshers, air fresheners, and sprays, all designed to combat smoke odors. Simply spray Febreze on curtains, upholstery, and carpets to eliminate smoke odors and leave a pleasant, fresh scent behind.
Professional Fogging Machines
Professional fogging machines are often used by cleaning and restoration companies to combat severe smoke odors. These machines disperse a fine mist of odor-neutralizing chemicals throughout the property. The mist can penetrate even hard-to-reach areas, effectively neutralizing odors. It’s advisable to hire professionals if you opt for this method.
Commercial Smoke Odor Removers
Several commercial products are specifically designed for smoke odor removal. Look for products that contain ingredients like activated charcoal, which can effectively absorb and neutralize odors. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for the best results.
Food-Based Ways to Remove the Smell of Smoke in Your Vacation Rental
How to get rid of smoke smell in the house? Try making it smell like a tasty treat! In addition to the natural ways to get rid of smoke smell we shared earlier, here are additional food-based remedies to consider. The best part is that making your house smell delicious can actually improve guest experience.
Baking Apple Pie
Baking a pie can be a clever way to not only add a comforting aroma to your property but also reward your cleaner with a sweet treat. It’s a thoughtful touch to ensure that a pleasant fragrance lingers long after the last guest has checked out.
Cinnamon Steam
Cinnamon is a powerful natural deodorizer. Boiling water with cinnamon spice creates a robust fragrance that can effectively mask and combat smoke odors in different rooms. Want to add an additional fragrance? Combine the warm and inviting scents of cinnamon and citrus to create a delightful aroma. Place cinnamon sticks and dried orange peels in a pot of simmering water on the stove.
Vanilla and Almond Extract
Harness the pleasant aroma of vanilla or almond extract to mask smoke odors. Soak cotton balls or pieces of cloth in vanilla or almond extract and place them strategically around the property. As the air circulates, it carries the delightful scent, effectively masking any lingering smoke odors.
Fresh Citrus Peels
Citrus peels, such as those from oranges or lemons, not only provide a fresh aroma but also contain natural oils that can help neutralize odors. Collect citrus peels and place them in a pot of simmering water on the stove. As the water evaporates, it releases a refreshing citrus scent that can help combat smoke odors.
Fresh Eucalyptus Bundles
Eucalyptus leaves contain natural oils known for their pleasant and refreshing scent. Create small bundles of fresh eucalyptus branches and place them in vases or jars around the property. When guests enter, they’ll be greeted with the invigorating fragrance of eucalyptus, effectively masking any smoke odors.
Lavender Sachets
Lavender is renowned for its soothing and aromatic qualities. Fill small sachets with dried lavender buds and place them in drawers, closets, and other enclosed spaces. Lavender not only masks odors but also imparts a relaxing ambiance to your property.
Fresh Herbs and Flowers
Consider incorporating fresh herbs and flowers into your property’s decor. A vase of freshly cut flowers or potted herbs like rosemary or basil not only adds visual appeal but also infuses the air with natural fragrances that can help counteract smoke odors.
Make Your Home Smell Like Autumn 🍁🍂
This stove-top simmer recipe is particularly effective for neutralizing smoke odors and adding a delightful aroma to your property. The combination of cranberries, citrus, and spices can help mask and replace the lingering smoky scent.
- 1 cup of cranberries (or apple slices)
- 1 sliced lemon
- 1 sliced orange
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 rosemary sprigs
- 2 Bay leaves
Rainbow® Cleaning System: Comprehensive Cleaning and Purification
There’s nothing worse than having the smell of smoke ruin someone’s stay at your luxury Airbnb. The Rainbow® Cleaning System stands as a comprehensive solution that goes beyond traditional cleaning methods. This innovative system combines advanced cleaning technology with water-based filtration to tackle smoke odors at their source, ensuring that your rental property not only looks clean but also smells fresh and inviting.
Traditional Cleaning vs. The Rainbow® Cleaning System
Traditional cleaning methods often involve surface cleaning and the use of chemical sprays, which may mask smoke odors temporarily but do not address the root of the problem. Smoke particles can penetrate deep into fabrics, carpets, and even walls, making them challenging to eliminate.
The Rainbow® Cleaning System takes a different approach:
- Water-Based Filtration: At the heart of the Rainbow® system is its unique water-based filtration technology. Unlike traditional vacuum cleaners that rely on bags or filters to capture dirt and odors, the Rainbow® uses water to trap and neutralize particles, including smoke odors. The water filtration system ensures that captured odors are not released back into the air.
- Effective Smoke Odor Removal: When you use the Rainbow® system for cleaning, it doesn’t just remove visible dirt and dust; it also captures and eliminates smoke particles and odors. The water in the system acts as a natural filter, trapping smoke residues and preventing them from escaping. That’s how to get rid of smoke smell in the house!
- Allergy-Friendly: Additionally, the Rainbow® system is known for its effectiveness in reducing allergens in the air. This can be particularly beneficial for guests who may have allergies or sensitivities to smoke odors.
Comprehensive Cleaning Process
The Rainbow® Cleaning System offers a comprehensive cleaning process that involves several steps:
- Vacuuming: The system starts with a thorough vacuuming of carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces to remove loose dirt and debris.
- Water Filtration: The vacuumed air is then passed through a water-based filtration system, where smoke particles and odors are captured and neutralized.
- Purified Air: The cleaned and purified air is released back into the room, leaving it fresh and free from smoke odors.
Maintaining a Fresh and Smoke-Free Environment
By incorporating the Rainbow® Cleaning System into your cleaning routine, you can effectively combat smoke odors in your vacation rental property. It not only removes visible dirt and dust but also targets the root cause of smoke odors, ensuring that your property maintains a fresh and inviting atmosphere for all your guests. Whether you’re preparing the property for new arrivals or addressing smoke odors from previous guests, the Rainbow® Cleaning System is a powerful tool in your arsenal to uphold a high standard of cleanliness and air quality.
If you’re wondering how to get rid of smoke smell in the house, the Rainbow® Cleaning System stands as a comprehensive solution that goes beyond traditional cleaning methods. This innovative system combines advanced cleaning technology with water-based filtration to tackle smoke odors at their source, ensuring that your rental property not only looks clean but also smells fresh and inviting.
Smoke Detection Devices That Alert the Owner
While there are numerous methods and devices designed to eliminate the lingering odors of cigarette and marijuana smoke, some innovative technologies take a different approach. Instead of focusing on smoke removal, devices like Wynd and Minut are engineered to sense when smoking occurs, immediately alerting property owners or managers and even setting off alarms.
This proactive approach to smoke detection empowers property owners to address smoking incidents as they occur, even when they’re not physically present on the premises.
The immediate notification allows for swift action, such as contacting guests to remind them of the no-smoking policy or dispatching staff to investigate and intervene if necessary. In some cases, the mere knowledge that smoking incidents are being actively monitored can serve as a powerful deterrent, discouraging guests from violating the policy in the first place.
Minut: The Smart Way to Monitor Air Quality
Minut is a smart monitoring system designed to address these challenges proactively. It’s a compact and unobtrusive device that can be discreetly placed in your vacation rental property. Here’s how Minut can assist you in maintaining a smoke-free environment:
- Real-Time Monitoring: Minut continuously monitors various aspects of air quality, including temperature, humidity, noise levels, and specific events like smoke or fire alarms. It provides real-time data, allowing you to stay informed about what is happening in your property, even when you’re not on-site.
- Smoke Detection: Minut’s advanced sensors can detect smoke or sudden changes in air quality, alerting you instantly via a smartphone app. This rapid notification enables you to address any potential smoking incidents promptly, preventing the odors from spreading and becoming deeply ingrained.
- Noise Control: Beyond smoke detection, Minut can also monitor noise levels. Excessive noise can be a sign of parties or gatherings that might involve smoking indoors. With Minut, you can detect and address these issues promptly.
- Guest Privacy: Minut respects guest privacy and does not record audio or video. It focuses solely on data related to air quality and noise levels, ensuring that your guests’ privacy is maintained.
Wynd’s Cutting-Edge Technology
Wynd is a portable air purifier that combines state-of-the-art filtration technology with smart features to combat smoke odors effectively:
- Advanced Filtration: Wynd employs a multi-stage filtration system that includes a HEPA filter and an electrostatic filter. This combination ensures that even the tiniest smoke particles and odors are captured and removed from the air.
- Active Monitoring: Wynd’s built-in sensors continuously monitor air quality, detecting any changes that may indicate the presence of smoke. When elevated levels of particulate matter are detected, Wynd adjusts its filtration speed to rapidly address the issue.
- Smartphone App: Wynd’s companion smartphone app allows property owners or managers to monitor air quality remotely in real-time. This means that even if you’re not on-site, you can stay informed about the air quality in your rental property.
- Alerts and Notifications: Wynd can send instant alerts and notifications to your smartphone when it detects a spike in particulate matter, suggesting a potential smoking incident. This feature empowers you to take immediate action to address the situation.
What is the Difference Between Wynd and Minut?
Minut and Wynd are two distinct technologies designed to address different aspects of maintaining a clean and safe environment in your vacation rental property. When you use either of them, you’ll never have to ask “how to get rid of smoke smell in the house.” Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between Minut and Wynd:
Function and Focus:
- Minut is primarily a smart monitoring system that focuses on real-time monitoring of various factors, including air quality, noise levels, and specific events such as smoke or fire alarms. Its primary function is to detect and alert property owners or managers to potential issues in the property, allowing them to take action promptly.
- Wynd, on the other hand, is a portable air purifier with smart features. Its primary function is to actively filter the air, removing particulate matter, including smoke particles and odors, to ensure that the air in the rental property remains clean and fresh.
Monitoring Capabilities:
- Minut uses sensors to monitor air quality, including smoke detection, as well as noise levels and temperature. It provides real-time data to property owners, allowing them to stay informed about what is happening in the property.
- Wynd uses sensors to monitor air quality as well, with a strong focus on particulate matter and odor removal. It actively adjusts its filtration speed based on real-time data to address air quality issues.
Alerts and Notifications:
- Minut sends alerts and notifications to property owners or managers when it detects specific events or anomalies, such as increased noise levels, smoke, or alarms.
- Wynd does not send alerts on its own but can be integrated with smart home systems or used in conjunction with Minut to provide a comprehensive monitoring and alerting solution.
Smoke Odor Management:
- Minut is primarily concerned with detecting and alerting property owners to potential smoke incidents. It does not directly address the removal of smoke odors from the air.
- Wynd actively filters the air to remove smoke particles and odors, effectively combating smoke odors in real-time.
Portability:
- Minut is a stationary device that is typically installed in a fixed location within the property.
- Wynd is a portable air purifier that can be moved to different areas of the property as needed to address specific air quality issues.
How to Get Rid of Smoke Smell in the House: A Summary
At the end of the day, it comes down to how stinky the smell is, how you feel about chemicals, and how long you have before the next guest checks in. Throughout this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored an array of solutions that span from natural remedies and innovative technologies to creative food-based methods. Each option plays a unique role in addressing the persistent challenge of smoke odors.
Summary of Options:
- Natural Cleaning Products: Employ natural remedies like vinegar, activated charcoal, citrus-based cleaners, essential oils, coffee grounds, and fresh air to effectively eliminate smoke odors.
- Chemical Products and Sprays: Utilize ozone generators, odor-neutralizing sprays like Febreze, professional fogging machines, hydrogen peroxide and baking soda mixtures, and commercial smoke odor removers to combat smoke odors.
- Natural Methods Involving Food: Get creative with food-based remedies like vanilla and almond extract, citrus peels, coffee beans, eucalyptus bundles, lavender sachets, cinnamon sticks, and fresh herbs and flowers to mask smoke odors naturally.
- The Rainbow® Cleaning System: Embrace the Rainbow® Cleaning System’s water-based filtration technology for comprehensive cleaning and odor elimination.
- Minut: Implement Minut’s smart monitoring system to detect and alert property owners to smoke incidents and maintain a smoke-free environment.
- Wynd: Deploy Wynd’s portable air purifier with smart features to actively filter the air, removing smoke particles and odors in real-time.
By combining these options or tailoring them to your specific needs, you can ensure that your vacation rental property remains a fresh and welcoming space for all guests. Whether it’s the proactive monitoring of Minut, the active purification of Wynd, the thorough cleaning with the Rainbow® system, or the aromatic charm of food-based remedies, these tools and methods offer a diverse toolkit to combat smoke odors effectively.
Ultimately, the choice of approach depends on your preferences and property’s unique requirements, allowing you to create an environment where guests can truly relax and enjoy their stay, free from the reminders of past smoking activities.
