How to Remove the Smoke Smell From Your House After a Fire

A house fire is a life-altering event. Not only can it cause loss of life, but it can also destroy precious keepsakes and valuables. After the flames have been doused and the ashes have settled, you will be left to pick up the pieces and rebuild. Even a little smoke damage can greatly reduce the value of your home. The smell that smoke leaves behind attaches itself to everything around it and can still linger on long after the incident.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Baking soda
• Carpet shampooer

Instructions

1. Wipe down walls, floors and furniture with white vinegar. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that has been used for ages to diminish offensive odors. You can dilute vinegar with warm water or, for harsher odors, use pure vinegar.

2. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and upholstery. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Once you have sprinkled the baking soda, let set for at least a half hour, but preferably overnight. Then vacuum the baking soda up. You can also leave bowls of baking soda around your home to absorb the odors.

3. Shampoo the carpets. Carpet shampooers can be rented at your local hardware, home improvement or grocery stores. They are relatively inexpensive to rent and easy to use.

4. Air out your home. If the weather is warm, leave your windows and doors open for as long as possible. With the help of fresh air, the smell of smoke will eventually dissipate.

References

• University of Missouri: Cleaning Household Textiles and Clothing
• Good Housekeeping: Eliminate Household Odor
• Apartment Therapy: Pesky Home Odors