Unwanted smells turn many buyers off during a home showing, but for some, the dream of owning the right property outweighs the temporary inconvenience of lingering odours. If you’ve bought a new home and are now dealing with stubborn smells, don’t worry – it’s possible to get rid of them. With these simple cleaning methods, you can breathe new life into your living space.
Here are a few common household odours that might be haunting your home (and how to eliminate them):
Musty or mouldy smells
These smells often come from high humidity, water damage, or hidden mould growth. Start by inspecting your home for leaks or damp areas, especially in basements, bathrooms, and under sinks. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage. Cleaning visible mould with a vinegar solution or a mould-specific cleaner can help, while a dehumidifier can reduce moisture levels in the affected area.
If the smell persists or mould is widespread, it’s best to call in a professional to assess the situation. Mould can cause various health issues, from sneezing and coughing to shortness of breath and rash breakouts, so it’s best to let the professionals step in if the mould area is large.
Cigarette smoke
Cigarette smoke residue can cling to walls, ceilings, and carpets, leaving a persistent odour. To combat this, wash surfaces with a mixture of vinegar and water, or a baking soda solution. Repainting walls with an odour-sealing primer is a great next step. Deep clean or replace carpets and upholstery to fully remove the smell.
Pet odours
Dander, fur, drool and oils trapped in carpets and furniture are common sources of pet odours. Deodorizing with baking soda and vinegar, followed by steam-cleaning carpets and upholstery, are a great place to start. Don’t forget to clean or replace air filters to ensure that the air circulating in your home is fresh. For stubborn pet odours, a professional cleaning service may be the most effective solution.
For urine smells, enzyme-based cleaners are highly effective for breaking down the proteins in urine and neutralizing the odour. Older or particularly stubborn stains that may have seeped into the padding beneath your flooring may require replacing the affected area in order to fully resolve the issue.
Steam cleaners should not be used to clean urine stains on carpets or upholstery. The heat can cause the stain and odour to set permanently. Similarly, avoid using cleaning agents like ammonia or vinegar, as their strong smells may prompt your pet (if you have one) to re-mark the area.
Sewer or rotten egg smell
This unpleasant odour is often caused by dry plumbing traps, blocked vents, or sulphur in your water supply. Running the tap in seldom-used sinks or showers can refill dry traps, while cleaning drains with baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water may also help. If the smell persists, it’s a good idea to contact a plumber to investigate further.
In some cases, this smell could indicate a gas leak. Natural gas, which is odourless, is often treated with a sulphur-like chemical called mercaptan to help people detect a leak. If you suspect a gas leak, leave your home immediately and avoid using electrical switches or open flames. Once you’re safely outside, contact your gas provider or emergency services to investigate and resolve the issue.
From a house to a home
If the cleaning methods listed above aren’t quite enough to get rid of stubborn smells, don’t hesitate to call in professional help. Getting rid of lingering odours in a new place isn’t just about the smell – it’s about reclaiming the space as your own. Once the smells have been properly dealt with, you can truly feel comfortable in a house that is now your home.