How to Remove Cigarette Smoke From Upholstery

Remove cigarette smoke odor from upholstery using common household products.

Cigarette smoke and its smell aren't particular about what materials and surfaces they stick to; wood, fabric, leather, hair, carpet and upholstery are all fair game. Whether you need to clean your upholstery because you quit smoking or because you acquired a piece of furniture from a smoker, you can get rid of the unpleasant smell for good.

Things You'll Need

• Washer
• White vinegar
• Bucket
• Sponge or clean cloth
• Baking soda
• Vacuum cleaner and attachments

Instructions

1. Remove the cushions from the upholstered furniture, if applicable. Check to see if the cushions have covers that are removable. If so, wash them in your washer on cold, adding 1 cup of vinegar to the wash water. Allow the covers to air-dry.

2. Mix 2 cups white vinegar and 2 cups warm water in a bucket. Wet a sponge or clean cloth with the solution and wipe down the upholstery. Rinse the cloth or sponge with warm water frequently, then re-wet with the vinegar solution and scrub the upholstery until you have cleaned the whole area.

3. Wet a clean sponge or cloth in warm water, and wipe down the upholstery to rinse off the vinegar mixture. Allow the upholstery to air-dry.

4. Sprinkle baking soda over the upholstery, and let it sit overnight. Make sure the upholstery is completely dry before applying baking soda as it will make a paste if the upholstery is wet.

5. Vacuum up the baking soda using the vacuum cleaner and attachments.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are unable to eliminate the smell, consider calling a professional to clean your upholstery.

References

• Health Guidance: How to Get Rid of Cigarette Smell
• Home Ec 101: Removing Cigarette Smoke Odor From Couches
• ANOTEC Environmental Solutions: How to Get Rid of Cigarette Smoke Smell