9 ways to get rid of cigarette smell from home and furniture

4. Clean hard surfaces, such as walls and countertops, with a mixture of water and vinegar.
Vinegar, a natural deodorizer, helps to neutralize and eliminate odors, while water acts as a solvent to clean the surface. A study conducted by the Journal of Environmental and Public Health found that vinegar is highly effective in eliminating volatile organic compounds (VOCs) commonly found in cigarette smoke. Additionally, vinegar is a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to commercial cleaning products that may contain harsh chemicals. By using this mixture, homeowners can effectively freshen up their living spaces and eliminate the lingering smell of cigarettes.
5. Use an odor-neutralizing spray or air freshener specifically designed to eliminate tobacco odors.
These products are formulated with ingredients that help eliminate the smell of tobacco smoke rather than just masking it. For instance, some sprays contain enzymes that break down the odor-causing molecules of tobacco smoke. Research has shown that using such products can significantly reduce lingering tobacco smells in your home. Additionally, these sprays often come in a variety of pleasant scents, helping to create a more pleasant and fresh environment.
6. Remove and clean any removable furniture covers or cushions that may have absorbed the smell.
These covers and cushions can act as reservoirs for the smell, and cleaning them is essential to achieve a fresh-smelling environment. For instance, washing removable sofa covers with a mixture of vinegar and water can help neutralize the odor. Additionally, using baking soda on cushions and allowing it to sit before vacuuming can help absorb the smell. By taking the time to remove and clean these items, one can significantly reduce the lingering cigarette smell and create a more pleasant living space.
7. Invest in an air purifier with a HEPA filter to help remove and clean the air of cigarette odor particles.
HEPA filters are designed to trap tiny particles as small as 0.3 microns, including the odorous particles from cigarette smoke. By regularly running the air purifier, it continuously filters and cleans the air, significantly reducing the lingering smell of cigarettes. This is especially useful in areas where smoking frequently occurs or where the odor is deeply embedded, such as living rooms, bedrooms, or upholstery. Additionally, using an air purifier with a HEPA filter can also help improve indoor air quality by removing other airborne pollutants along with the cigarette smell.
8. Consider using odor-absorbing charcoal or activated charcoal to help eliminate the cigarette smell.
These charcoal products have the ability to absorb and neutralize strong odors, including cigarette smoke. This is due to their porous structure, which helps to trap and eliminate the odor molecules from the air. For instance, placing a bowl of activated charcoal in the affected area or using charcoal-based air purifiers can significantly reduce the smell of smoke. Additionally, research has shown that activated charcoal is a proven deodorizing agent, making it an ideal choice for combating cigarette odors effectively.
9. Deep clean carpets and upholstery using a carpet cleaner or hire professionals to remove the lingering cigarette odor.
This is because the smoke particles can easily get trapped in the fibers of these materials, making them retain the smell for a long time. Using a carpet cleaner or hiring professionals can effectively remove the odor-causing particles and freshen up the entire space. Research shows that deep cleaning not only removes the smell but also improves the indoor air quality by getting rid of other pollutants. Additionally, hiring professionals ensures a thorough and specialized cleaning process, maximizing the chances of completely eliminating the cigarette odor.