Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda evenly over the entire couch surface. Allow the baking soda to sit for 15 to 30 minutes. This time frame allows the baking soda to absorb and neutralize odors effectively.
Create a Cleaning Solution - Mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar into a clear spray bottle or bowl. Wipe Down - Apply the solution to a white, microfiber cloth and wipe down the entire couch. Using a white towel ensures that no color or dyes will transfer to the couch.
Activated charcoal and baking soda are excellent for absorbing odors without masking them, providing a more lasting solution.
Most clothing smells can be removed with baking soda or vinegar applications, but some tough odors may require extra cleaning steps with heavy-duty liquid detergent or household ammonia. Choose a commercial odor remover like Downy Rinse & Refresh or remove odors from laundry using items straight from the pantry.
Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle, and lightly spritz the affected areas of your clothing. Allow it to air dry, and the vinegar smell will dissipate, taking the unwanted odors with it. This method works well for removing musty smells and is safe for most fabrics.
To maintain consistently fresh-smelling clothes, consider using a quality detergent, adding fabric conditioner, and incorporating scent boosters like Lenor Unstoppables. Ensure clothes are thoroughly dried, and your washing machine is clean.
If you're in the process of deep cleaning, reach for that baking soda in your pantry. Baking soda is a great non-toxic cleaner that does the job when it comes to busting bad odors.
Several common household items (most notably baking soda and white vinegar) contain powerful properties that eliminate smells without the use of chemicals. But less-commonly known products like coffee and vodka can do wonders when it comes to eliminating, not simply covering, bad smells.
Using Baking Soda: Baking soda is great for absorbing odors. Simply sprinkle it all over the couch and let it sit there for a few hours, or even overnight if the smell is really strong. This gives the baking soda time to soak up the unpleasant odors.
Mold or mildew growth: If your couch has been exposed to moisture or high humidity, it may develop mold or mildew, which can cause a musty smell. Pets: All pet owners know the odors that come with owning a furry friend. The unpleasant smell can infiltrate the fabric fibers down to the foam cushion.
Cleaning couches and upholstery with vinegar
But if you're looking for a quick refresh, vinegar can tackle that mild, stale sofa smell. As always, check the label on your couch first – some upholstery is not compatible with water-based cleaning solutions (steer clear if the label has a S or X on it).
Combine a tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of water and half a teaspoon of your favorite essential oil in a spray bottle. Gently dab away excess moisture from the sofa upholstery. Use a clean cloth. Use this mixture to give your couch a quick scented refresh.
Whether you have an unwanted smell lingering in your garbage can or your carpet or furnishings smell like pet hair, baking soda has been used to neutralize odors for generations.
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and a fine abrasive, which makes it excellent at scrubbing as well as absorbing odours. As a mild acid, vinegar is able to dissolve mineral deposits, dirt, grease, and grime.
Some of the hardest and worst smells to get rid of are pet odours, mold, and cigarette smells.
Hydrogen Peroxide Based Products
Products containing hydrogen peroxide can be effective on urine odors and stains.
For our best overall, we were most impressed with Lysol Disinfectant Laundry Sanitizer. During testing, we loved how it deodorizes garments and sanitizes them, too. Plus, the crisp linen scent lingers on your clothes post-wash, which is a bonus.
The cheapest way to make your house smell good is by using scented candles or wax melts. You can also use potpourri, scented sachets, diffusers, or plug-in air fresheners for a long-lasting scent.
Yes, scented dryer sheets do make laundry smell better, though they can't camouflage the odor of stinky, sweaty clothes or towels. That has to be tackled in the washing machine with detergent.