"HEPA filters… trap particles as small as 0.3 microns with 99 percent efficiency," says Podjasek. "Since smoke particles are typically within this size range, HEPA filters are excellent for removing smoke from the air, preventing it from entering the respiratory system and causing harm."
We recommend running an air purifier on high for an hour the first time you turn the machine on. That'll clear the air quickly by passing the entire volume of air in the room through the filter four to six times. Thereafter, keeping the machine on low or automatic will keep the air clear. Just run it continuously.
Peek suggested leaving bowls of baking soda around the house for several days for full effect. “Activated charcoal also is an option to help absorb odors. Use it like you would baking soda and place it in bowls around the house for several days.
To remove the particulate matter in cigarette smoke, we need a HEPA filter. A HEPA filter will remove over 95% of particulate matter within one pass of a filter. Below you can see our real-world HEPA filter tests for the Sqair air purifier.
Fortunately, air purifiers do help with cigarette smoke. The best air purifiers for smokers, and those around them, are those that remove particles and odors for both secondhand and thirdhand smoke.
Increase ventilation by opening windows and doors, and use fans or air purifiers to facilitate airflow. This helps remove airborne smoke particles and freshens the indoor environment.
Use air cleaners to help remove particles and odors
Consider purchasing portable air cleaners with both a HEPA filter and activated carbon filter. The carbon filter is important as it will remove the VOCs from the air. The HEPA filter will remove 99.97% of particles and VOCs that are bound to particles.
If air quality is a concern in your household due to health reasons, never attempt vacuuming unless your appliance is equipped with a HEPA filter. It's a simple way to safeguard respiratory health.
Levoit Core 300S Air Purifier
There are lots of options available on the market that can handle a few hundred square feet, but the Levoit Core 300s is the best air purifier for smoke in small spaces because it goes above and beyond some of the more affordable picks.
Particles. Most smoke is a mix of very small liquid droplets and solid particles that become suspended in the air and can remain airborne for up to a week.
Baking soda
This handy helper in your pantry also naturally absorbs odours. Sprinkle dry baking soda on your rugs and carpets (and other furniture) and use a brush with soft bristles to lightly scrub.
Febreze Air Freshener Spray, 2 count
It gets rid of strong smoke and cooking odors quickly, even in our large Good Housekeeping test kitchens.
Set out bowls of activated charcoal throughout your house, which will absorb the smoky odor. Alternatively, try setting out bowls of kitty litter, baking soda, or coffee grinds which may also help absorb lingering smells.
You'll look like a windmill, but a wet towel will suck in smoke particles.
While many people know that an air purifier can help with allergens such as mold and pollens, the good news is that using an air purifier can help to remove smoke from the air as well. Not only can an air purifier help to remove smoke odors, but it can capture many of the harmful chemical components as well.
The simplest thing you can do to purify air from smoke in your home is just opening windows. Letting in a cool breeze will help whisk away some of the smell and bring badly needed fresh air into the home. This can provide some immediate relief for rooms with a stronger presence of smoke in the air.
Ammonia solution: Cleaning with an ammonia-based solution and scrubbing may help minimize smoke stains on walls.
Filters labeled “MERV13” or higher are most effective for removing smoke particles. Having a portable HEPA air cleaner available will also help to create a room with filtered air. See https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/air-cleaners-and-air-filters-home. for additional guidance on home air filtration.
Installing a HEPA air filter with a charcoal odor filter will help eliminate smoke particles from the air. You can also invest in a whole-house air-purification system to work alongside your HVAC system to filter out smoke odors and other airborne contaminants.
Air out the home or business.
Open the doors and windows for ventilation. Consider removing the window screens to increase air flow. If it's cold outside, opening doors and windows just a crack will help. Use fans to push out the smoke smell.
Ventilation, Ventilation, Ventilation
A major problem for indoor air quality is high moisture levels, but regular ventilation can help lower these levels and clean up the air in your home. Trickle vents can purify and cycle the air you breathe, while exhaust fans can help carry pollutants outside.