Secrets to a Clean and Fresh living space

Within every home, not only does a unique design style have a significant impact, but a distinctive scent also plays a direct role in mental well-being, enhancing feelings of happiness and creativity. According to a recent consumer survey by Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, most people express a desire to impress visitors with a pleasant aroma as soon as they step through the door.

However, despite your best efforts to keep your home clean, it’s often challenging to avoid unwanted odors that require considerable time to eliminate. These can include your beloved dog’s choice of your soft rug as a bathroom, food odors from the kitchen, or strong smells from dirty boots. Don’t worry; check out these effective tips for eliminating unpleasant smells.

1. Dealing with Residue

Notice a lingering bad smell from your kitchen? Check the drain in your sink as food residue is often the culprit. The trick to deodorizing here is to use a bit of lemon-scented cleaner in the garbage disposal and let the water run. You can also substitute with fresh lemon or lemon zest. If the smell persists, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the sink along with warm water.

2. Refreshing Carpets

Unlike tile or hardwood floors, luxurious carpets – and all other soft surfaces – easily absorb dirt and odors, even after you’ve tried to clean up food spills and pet waste. To clean effectively, sprinkle baking soda over the entire carpet and gently work it into the surface with a brush. Let it sit for 30 minutes to 1-2 hours before vacuuming. Make sure to clean the vacuum’s dust cup and filter before use or use a clean bag for optimal performance. This method can also be applied similarly to bedding and pet mattresses.

3. Cleaning Your Trash Can

It’s no surprise that with the mix of food scraps and other waste, your trash can emits an unpleasant odor. An easy way to eliminate the smell is to sprinkle baking soda into the trash can when replacing the liner, or place an industrial deodorizing packet inside. Don’t forget to clean both sides of the lid and around the rim where smelly debris can accumulate. Finish by using a disinfectant spray to kill lingering odor-causing bacteria.

4. Using Herbs and Fruits

“I learned this from my skillful and cleaning-obsessed mother,” says interior designer Rhobin DelaCruz. “Boil water in a small pot and add citrus slices and herbs like lavender or mint.” The steam carries the pleasant fragrance throughout your home, and this natural combo can easily be customized based on the ingredients you have.

5. Distributing Candles Throughout Your Home

Candles are an obvious choice to fill your home with your favorite scents, but positioning them strategically can enhance their effectiveness. Interior designer Dee Murphy suggests: “Place a few candles in unexpected spots, but don’t light them. Opt for cupboards and enclosed spaces – areas that absorb scents well. You’ll be surprised every time you open the door, and fabric items will carry the fragrance wherever you use them.”

6. Bringing Nature Into Your Living Space

Indoor plants not only help purify the air but also instantly beautify your home. Many plants, including jasmine, eucalyptus, and gardenia, also emit pleasant fragrances. Just ensure you’re prepared to care for them.

7. Freshening Up with Ventilation

DelaCruz shares: “Clip a car deodorizer to the metal bar of the air conditioner and the heating vents. As the air blows through, the fragrance will spread throughout the room.” This way, you can quickly bring a consistent scent to your space.

8. Deodorizing with Scented Dryer Sheets

Make use of them outside the laundry room! Place a few scented sheets in closets or other small spaces to keep clothes or fabric items smelling fresh – even after being stored for months.