How To Remove Smoke Smell From Home Naturally!

Nobody likes the smell of cigarettes; it is among the most annoying scents to have in and around your house. The smell of cigarettes is universally detested by many, and for good reason. It clings to fabrics, furniture, and walls, making it difficult to remove and creating an unpleasant atmosphere in a home. The distinct smell may permeate carpets, drapes, and upholstery, persisting even after the individual has departed.

Not only does it create an unpleasant environment for both guests and residents, but it may also pose potential health risks for those exposed to secondhand smoke. Families with children or individuals with respiratory sensitivities often find the presence of cigarette smoke particularly worrisome.

Furthermore, the lingering odor of cigarettes can reduce the appeal and marketability of a property, presenting challenges for homeowners who wish to sell.

In this article, we will discuss various natural ways to remove the smoke smell from your home!

• Why Is The Cigarette Smell Dangerous For Your Health?
• How To Remove Smoke Smell From Your Clothes
• Best Products To Get Rid of Smoke Smell [Natural, Without Chemicals]
• How To Remove Smoke Smell From Your Couch
• How Do Hotels Remove Smoke Smell From The Room

Why Is The Cigarette Smell Dangerous For Your Health?

The cigarette smell itself isn’t directly dangerous, but its presence signals the presence of thirdhand smoke, which is the toxic residue that settles on surfaces after a cigarette is extinguished.

In addition to soft surfaces, thirdhand smoke also settles onto hard surfaces, similar to how dust accumulates. This includes areas like walls, floors, countertops, and even within vehicles. Research indicates that thirdhand smoke can remain present for several months, continuing to pose a risk even after a smoker has ceased smoking in that area.

Moreover, any form of indoor smoking raises the risk of contact with harmful chemicals, not only from thirdhand smoke but also from secondhand smoke.

Secondhand smoke, which consists of the smoke exhaled by a smoker or emitted from the burning end of a tobacco product, is associated with numerous health issues, including various forms of cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses. However, the long-term effects of exposure to the toxins present in thirdhand smoke are still not fully understood, as there is ongoing research in this area.

This residue consists of harmful carcinogens and other toxic chemicals that can adversely affect human health, particularly damaging DNA, increasing the risk of cancer and heart disease, and causing respiratory problems.

This is especially concerning for children, as they are more susceptible to these risks even when visible smoke is no longer present.

What Is Thirdhand Smoke & Why Is It Dangerous:

Thirdhand smoke refers to the residual nicotine and other chemicals left on surfaces and in dust after a cigarette has been smoked. Unlike secondhand smoke, which is the smoke inhaled by non-smokers nearby, thirdhand smoke lingers long after the cigarette is extinguished.

It can settle on furniture, clothing, and even in cars, posing health risks, especially to children and pets. When someone touches these surfaces or inhales the dust, they can absorb harmful substances. Awareness of thirdhand smoke is crucial for creating healthier environments, particularly in homes where smoking occurs.

Toxic Chemicals: We all use toxic chemicals to clean our houses, whether it’s to remove the smoke odor or to remove pet stains. The toxic chemical stain remover residue causes indoor pollution.

This residue, often referred to as thirdhand smoke, can pose health risks long after the cigarette has been extinguished. These lingering chemicals can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled, or even ingested, especially by young children who frequently come into contact with contaminated surfaces. Over time, thirdhand smoke can accumulate, creating a persistent source of exposure that is difficult to eliminate, even with regular cleaning or ventilation.

Carcinogens: Among these chemicals, more than 50 are recognized as carcinogens, substances that can lead to cancer in living tissues through processes that interfere with cellular function, even at low exposure levels.

DNA Damage: Studies have also shown that thirdhand smoke can linger on surfaces and in dust for extended periods, making it a persistent health hazard, especially for children who are more likely to come into contact with contaminated areas.

Additionally, its harmful effects can be exacerbated when combined with other environmental toxins, further amplifying the risks of long-term exposure.

Avoid using heavily scented perfumes to get rid of smoke smell, these cleaners can impact your health & cause indoor pollution. Removing these perfume scents can be challenging.

Re-emission of Chemicals: The harmful chemicals present in thirdhand smoke do not remain static. They can re-emit into the air and, over time, they may recombine to generate new, harmful compounds that further enhance health risks.

Absorption and Inhalation: Exposure to the toxins in thirdhand smoke can occur through physical contact, when individuals touch contaminated surfaces, or via inhalation of smoke particles and gases that are released from these surfaces.

Lingering Presence: One of the more alarming aspects of thirdhand smoke is its lasting presence. This toxic residue can persist in various environments for years and does not dissipate simply through ventilation methods, such as opening windows or using air conditioning units. Traditional cleaning methods may not effectively remove it.

The Impact of Thirdhand Smoke

When individuals come into contact with these contaminated items or inhale gases that may be released from thirdhand smoke, they can inadvertently expose themselves to its harmful chemicals. This is notably concerning for babies and young children, who are often more exposed due to their behavior of crawling on floors and their tendency to explore their environment by putting non-food items into their mouths.

Children are particularly vulnerable to the dangers posed by thirdhand smoke. They often spend more time indoors, and their exposure increases because they frequently put non-food items in their mouths. This behavior heightens their risk of ingesting harmful toxins.

Pregnant Women: Thirdhand smoke poses significant risks to pregnant women and their developing babies. This residual smoke, which settles on surfaces and in dust after smoking, contains harmful chemicals such as nicotine, heavy metals, and carcinogens. Pregnant women exposed to thirdhand smoke may face increased risks of complications, including low birth weight, preterm birth, and stillbirth.

Moreover, the toxic substances can adversely affect fetal development, potentially leading to cognitive and behavioral issues as the child grows. Infants who are exposed to thirdhand smoke are also at a higher risk of respiratory problems, such as asthma and chronic lung conditions.

The vulnerability of both the mother and the unborn child makes it crucial to eliminate exposure to thirdhand smoke.

Creating a smoke-free environment not only protects the health of the mother but also ensures the well-being of the baby, reducing the likelihood of long-term health issues associated with exposure to these harmful substances.

Pets: It is not just humans who are affected; pets are also at significant risk from thirdhand smoke. Being lower to the ground, animals come into contact with contaminated surfaces more readily and may also ingest toxins through grooming themselves or by touching contaminated areas.

People often assume that increasing airflow in a space by opening windows, using fans, or setting air conditioners to circulate air can eliminate thirdhand smoke; however, this is not the case. Such methods do not adequately clear out thirdhand smoke from indoor environments. Cleaning typical household items is also challenging, as conventional cleaning techniques may not effectively remove the harmful residues left behind.

What health issues arise from tobacco smoke that lingers on indoor surfaces? Tobacco smoke is harmful because it contains thousands of chemicals, many of which are toxic, and at least 70 are known to cause cancer. When someone inhales cigarette smoke, substances like tar, carbon monoxide, and nicotine enter the lungs and bloodstream. Tar damages the lining of the lungs and airways, which increases the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. Carbon monoxide reduces the amount of oxygen your blood can carry, forcing the heart to work harder. Nicotine is addictive and keeps people hooked, making long-term exposure more likely. Adults who smoke have 12-13 years shorter survival between ages 40-79 compared with those who never smoked [Pubmed]

How To Remove Smoke Smell From Your Clothes [Naturally!]

Few odors cling to clothing as persistently as smoke. Whether you’ve enjoyed a cozy evening by a campfire or spent time in a smoky establishment, you may find yourself wondering how to remove the lingering scent from your cherished garments.

While eliminating smoke odors can be a bit challenging and time-consuming, there’s no need to worry. Regardless of where the smoky smell originates, these natural methods will help you understand why smoke adheres to fabrics and provide effective solutions to eliminate it.

To naturally remove the smoke smell from clothes, there are a couple of effective methods involving household items like white vinegar and baking soda. Both of these substances can help neutralize odors without the use of harsh chemicals.

White Vinegar Method

White vinegar, often found in kitchens and cleaning cupboards, is not just a food ingredient but also a powerful ally in combating unpleasant odors, particularly smoke smells that can cling to clothes and fabrics. Its active component, acetic acid, has remarkable properties that allow it to neutralize and eradicate offensive odors effectively.

To effectively use white vinegar for odor removal, you can follow a simple method. During the wash cycle of your smelly laundry load, add a cup of distilled white vinegar. This method not only helps to fight smoke odors but also works wonders for other stubborn smells that can linger in fabrics.

If you prefer a more targeted application, you can create a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water. Pour this mixture into a spray bottle, which allows for easy and convenient use.

This vinegar-based cleaning solution can be sprayed directly onto clothes or other fabrics that have absorbed unwanted odors. As you spray, the vinegar binds to smoke molecules, trapping and neutralizing them, ultimately eliminating their unpleasant scent.

• Soak: Start by mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water in a tub or sink. This solution will help to break down the smoke particles embedded in the fabric.
• Submerge: Place the smoky clothes into the vinegar solution, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least an hour. For stronger odors, soaking overnight is recommended as it allows the vinegar to work deeper into the fibers.
• Wash: After soaking, wash the garments as you normally would in your washing machine using your regular detergent. This will help to lift any remaining smoke particles from the fabric.
• Rinse: To enhance the deodorizing effect, add 1/2 to 1 cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle. The vinegar will work to neutralize any lingering odors.
• Dry: The final step is to air-dry the clothes. If possible, hang them out in direct sunlight, as the UV rays can help break down remaining odor molecules more effectively, leaving the clothes smelling fresh.

Baking Soda Method

Baking soda, scientifically known as sodium bicarbonate, is one of the most versatile and all-purpose materials commonly found in most households. It has a wide range of uses that extend beyond baking, such as cleaning, deodorizing, and even personal care.

One of its remarkable properties is its ability to act as a pH neutralizer. Since most smells are acidic in nature, this natural quality makes baking soda perfect for combatting even the toughest odors that can linger in your environment.

When odors, such as those from smoke, food, or pets, become trapped in fabrics or various surfaces, baking soda can effectively neutralize them. It works by interacting with the acidic particles that cause these unpleasant smells, neutralizing the acid, and thus removing the odor. For best results in laundry, it is recommended to add a cup of baking soda to your regular wash cycle.

This will not only help to trap and neutralize smoke odors but also enhance the cleansing action of your laundry detergent, leaving your clothes fresher and smelling clean.

• Pre-Soak: For this method, fill a large basin or bathtub with warm water and dissolve 1 cup of baking soda into it. The baking soda works as a natural deodorizer that effectively neutralizes smoke smells.
• Soak: Let the smoky clothes soak in the baking soda solution overnight. This extended soaking period allows the baking soda to penetrate the fibers and absorb the odors.
• Machine Wash: Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can add 1 cup of baking soda directly to the washing machine drum along with your usual detergent when washing the clothes.
• Wash: Use warm water since the heat will help open up fabric fibers and release trapped odors more effectively.
• Air-Dry: After washing, hang the clothes to dry outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Allowing sunlight and fresh air to circulate can further eliminate any remaining smells.

Quick, No-Wash Solutions:

To get rid of a smoky odor from clothing without washing, combine equal parts distilled white vinegar and water, then transfer the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the affected clothing item and let it air dry. If the smell continues, repeat the process. When possible, wash the garment as usual to completely remove any lingering smoky smells.

One of the best and most readily available odor fighters when it comes to combating persistent smoke odors is baking soda. This versatile substance is not only inexpensive but also exceptionally effective due to its natural ability to neutralize odors.

Simply adding a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle of your washing machine can significantly aid in removing the unpleasant smells associated with cigarette smoke, campfires, or even the aftermath of a house fire. The baking soda works by chemically reacting with odor-causing particles, thereby rendering them less potent or completely neutralizing them.

• Vinegar Spray: If you need a quick fix, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the affected areas on the garment, then hang it to air dry.
• Baking Soda Bag: Another rapid solution is to place the smoky clothes in a large sealable bag with about 1/2 cup of baking soda. Seal the bag and leave it overnight. The baking soda will absorb the odors while the garment is contained.
• Steam: Using a handheld steamer can also be beneficial. The steam penetrates the fabric fibers and helps release odor molecules, providing a quick refresh without the need for washing.

Best Products To Get Rid of Smoke Smell [Natural, Without Chemicals]

Natural Odor Absorbers (Must-Haves)

These common household items are highly effective because they pull odor molecules out of the air and fabrics.

Product	How to Use It for Smoke Smell
Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)	For Carpets/Upholstery: Sprinkle liberally on carpets, rugs, and furniture. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, then vacuum it up. You can also mix a few drops of an essential oil (like Lemon or Eucalyptus) into the baking soda before sprinkling.
White Vinegar (Acetic Acid)	Air Neutralizer: Pour a cup of plain white vinegar into a small bowl and leave it out in the affected room for 24 hours. The vinegar will absorb the smoke smell; its own smell will dissipate once it dries. For Hard Surfaces: Use a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water to wipe down walls, floors, and hard furniture.
Activated Charcoal	Air & Closet Purifier: Place small, open containers or breathable bags of activated charcoal (not briquettes) in rooms, closets, or any enclosed space. Its highly porous structure traps and neutralizes odors from the air. Replace or ‘recharge’ it in direct sunlight every few weeks.
Coffee Grounds	Small Area Deodorizer: Place dry, used coffee grounds in an open container and leave it in the affected area (like a cabinet or closet) to absorb the smell.

Reddit users recommend a combination of intense cleaning, specific cleaning products, and professional tools to effectively eliminate smoke odors, especially from long-term cigarette smoke or fire damage.

The consensus is that for deep-set smoke smell, simply masking the odor is ineffective; you need to remove the tar and nicotine residue that is clinging to every surface.

Ozone Generator (Ozone Machine)

This is by far the most frequently and highly recommended solution on Reddit for deep-set smoke smell, often described as the “nuclear bomb” method.

How it works: It produces O3 (ozone) gas, which is a powerful oxidizer that breaks down the odor-causing molecules.

The Caveat: Ozone is dangerous. You MUST vacate the area, including all people, pets, and plants, while the machine is running and for several hours afterward until the space is fully ventilated. Many users suggest running it after the initial heavy cleaning is complete.

Heavy-Duty Cleaners & Degreasers

These products are recommended for scrubbing down all hard surfaces (walls, ceilings, cabinets, trim) to physically remove the sticky, yellow-brown nicotine/tar residue.

TSP (Trisodium Phosphate): A powerful cleaner and degreaser for walls and ceilings. Reddit users stress the need to use a clean sponge or rag and wash until the rinse water comes off clear.

Ammonia-Based Cleaners: Ammonia is an effective degreaser to cut through the tar. Users often mix it with hot water and dish soap.

OdoBan: A popular concentrated odor eliminator, disinfectant, and cleaner, often recommended for cleaning walls, baseboards, and as a treatment before installing new flooring.

Odor-Blocking Primers & Paint

Once the surfaces are clean, painting is essential to seal off any residue trapped in the materials.

Zinsser BIN Shellac Primer: A shellac-based primer is consistently recommended as the absolute best product for blocking and sealing smoke and nicotine stains/odors on walls and ceilings before applying a final coat of paint.

Kilz Primer (Oil-Based/Red Can): Another popular option, particularly the oil-based version, for blocking severe odors and stains.

How To Remove Smoke Smell From Your Couch

Fresh air is a simple yet effective remedy for a variety of problems, one of the most common being the removal of cigarette odors from furniture and upholstery.

When possible, try to leave your smoke-affected furniture outside for several days, ensuring that it is covered to protect it from the elements. This method allows for ample air circulation, which can work wonders in dissipating the stale smoke smell, especially from your couch.

If outdoor space is limited or moving your couch or furniture isn’t an option, a practical alternative is to open your windows and use a fan to help ventilate the area, promoting a flow of fresh air that can help clear out lingering odors.

Baking soda is a well-known household staple that serves a dual purpose as a cleaning agent and odor absorber. To tackle cigarette smells, simply sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected areas of your furniture and allow it to work its magic for at least 30 minutes. After this time, vacuum the baking soda away to reveal fresh-smelling upholstery. Baking soda helps keep your couch clean by neutralizing odors and absorbing stains. Simply sprinkle it over the surface, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and then vacuum thoroughly to refresh your couch and eliminate unwanted smells.

If the stubborn odor persists, don’t hesitate to apply a second layer of baking soda and extend the treatment duration up to two hours. Its remarkable ability to neutralize odors, including musty smells, makes baking soda an excellent choice for rejuvenating old and smoky furniture.

For a more potent homemade solution, consider crafting your own DIY odor remover using common household ingredients. By mixing one part white wine vinegar with two parts water in a clean spray bottle, you create a natural alternative to commercial air fresheners.

Before applying it to more obvious areas, test the concoction on a discreet portion of your furniture to ensure it will not adversely affect the upholstery. If the test spot shows no adverse effects, lightly spray the mixture over the entire surface and allow it to air out with your windows open. White wine vinegar is highly regarded for its air-purifying properties and its ability to act as an antibacterial agent, effectively combating germs and unpleasant odors.

Lastly, you can create a homemade fabric refresher spray that further enhances freshness. Mix two cups of witch hazel with 20 drops of lemon essential oil in a spray bottle and shake vigorously to combine.

The lemon essential oil is known for its refreshing scent and is effective in breaking down oily residues that contribute to the smoke smell. Generously spray this mixture over your smoky furniture, allowing the fragrant blend to penetrate the fibers of the upholstery. This approach not only helps neutralize odors but also leaves behind a pleasant citrus scent, making your furniture feel revitalized and welcoming once again.

How Do Hotels Remove Smoke Smell From The Room

Have you ever thought about how hotels get rid of smoke odors and freshen up their rooms, particularly after someone has smoked? It’s almost like a trick. Hotels employ different methods and techniques to eradicate smoke smells, whether they come from clothing or the entire room.

Understanding the methods used by hotels to remove the smell can provide valuable insights for anyone looking to maintain a clean and pleasant environment in their own space. Here are some detailed strategies that hotels typically implement:

Open Those Windows: One of the first measures hotel staff take to combat cigarette odors is to open windows. This basic yet effective step allows fresh air to circulate and helps displace any lingering smoke particles.

Fresh air is essential in neutralizing the smell, and this simple act can significantly improve the atmosphere in the room. It is especially important in rooms with poor ventilation where smoke can become trapped.

Use of Air Purifiers: Many hotels invest in air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters, which are designed to capture smoke particles, allergens, and other pollutants from the air. These devices not only improve air quality but also help to reduce odors effectively.

Depending on the severity of the smoke smell, hotels may run these purifiers for extended periods to ensure thorough air cleaning.

Odor Neutralizing Sprays: Another common method utilized by hotel staff is the application of specialized odor-neutralizing sprays. Unlike typical air fresheners, these products chemically neutralize the odor rather than just masking it.

Many hotels choose commercial-grade products that are particularly effective against smoke odors and are safe for use in various settings.

Deep Cleaning Fabrics and Carpets: Fabrics in hotel rooms, such as curtains, upholstery, and carpets, can absorb smoke odors over time. To combat this, hotel staff often employ deep cleaning techniques, including steam cleaning or using enzyme-based cleaners that break down the smoke particles trapped in fibers. Regularly washing and refreshing textiles can greatly enhance the overall smell of the room.

Enzyme-based odor remover work really well to eliminate smell of cigarette and other scents!

Replacement of HVAC Filters: Since heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can recirculate stale air, hotels ensure that filters are regularly replaced. Clean filters are essential for maintaining fresh air quality and preventing the recirculation of smoke odors throughout the premises.

Aromatherapy and Scenting Techniques: Many establishments enhance guest experiences by utilizing aromatherapy. The use of essential oil diffusers or scent marketing techniques can create a pleasant atmosphere in the room. Complimentary scents, like citrus or floral aromas, can help mask any residual smoke smell while providing a welcoming ambiance.

Regular Inspections: Hotel staff are trained to conduct regular inspections of rooms to ensure that any residual smoke odors are identified and addressed promptly. By being proactive, hotel management can mitigate potential issues before they affect the guest experience.

Utilize Baking Soda

Baking soda effectively eliminates smoke odors, and every staff member at the hotel is aware of this.

It’s common knowledge that hotel cleaning staff are well-trained professionals, and many of them are familiar with effective ways to eliminate smoke odors, with baking soda being the top cleaning agent. Not only does it help in getting rid of smoke smells, but if a room has been shut for some time and unwanted odors develop, baking soda can work wonders by neutralizing even the most persistent scents, making it the go-to solution for “how do hotels eliminate smoke odors.”

Can Hotel Staff Detect If You Smoke In Your Room? Yes, hotels are increasingly using advanced security systems and detection methods to determine if a guest has smoked in a non-smoking room. These systems can include smoke detectors specifically designed to sense tobacco smoke, as well as specialized equipment that can detect residual odors and the presence of nicotine. Additionally, hotel management often conducts inspections and uses trained staff to identify signs of smoking, such as burns on furnishings or lingering smells. Some hotels even have policies in place where they can charge a cleaning fee to guests who violate the no-smoking rule, as it can require extensive cleaning and air purification to restore the room for future guests. Ultimately, hotels prioritize guest satisfaction and safety, so they take the issue of smoking very seriously.

Opt For Natural Ways To Eliminate The Smoke Smell

If you’ve ever wondered how long the smell lingers in the house, the answer is: it depends. Smoke particles can stick to carpets, furniture, curtains, and even walls for weeks or months if untreated. Artificial air fresheners may give temporary relief, but the smoke smell often creeps back because the particles are still there.

Natural solutions like baking soda, vinegar, and activated charcoal work differently. Baking soda absorbs odors from fabrics and carpets. Vinegar, when placed in bowls around the house or used in cleaning, helps break down smoke particles. Activated charcoal traps and neutralizes odors in the air, making rooms feel fresher over time. Even simple steps like opening windows, running fans, or using houseplants can speed up the process by improving ventilation and naturally filtering the air.

The best part about natural methods is that they’re safe, affordable, and sustainable. You don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals or overpowering scents. Instead, you’re tackling the smoke smell in a healthier way for both your home and the people living in it.

So if you’re tired of wondering how long the smoke smell will linger in the house, choosing natural ways to eliminate it is the most effective and lasting solution.