If you’ve discovered a bad smell in your house, the first thing to check is your garbage disposal. Garbage disposals are notorious for bad odors because food often gets stuck around the blades, which then starts to rot. To eliminate bad odors in a garbage disposal, put a bit of lemon-scented dish soap or lemon rinds down the drain, turn on the water, and then run the disposal for a minute.
Along with the garbage disposal, humidity is another leading cause of bad indoor odors. If you live in a humid climate or notice a build-up of condensation on your windows, chances are you have far too much moisture in the air of your home. Damp rugs, furniture, sponges, and towels can start to mold and smell bad. To address the problem, try using a dehumidifier or fans in rooms prone to moisture build-up. Also, be sure to dry towels and rugs completely before storing or throwing in a hamper, and replace sponges every two weeks.
If you’ve faced both your garbage disposal and high humidity levels, but the smell persists, your next step is to clean a few of the most common sources of bad smells. Among the top culprits are litter boxes, garbage cans, and diaper pails. If you have one or more of these items in your home, be sure to deep clean it at least once a month, more often, if necessary. It’s also important to check your refrigerator for bad smells. Expired food and moldy leftovers can create an unbelievable stink. About once a month, clear out anything past its expiration date and then scrub out your fridge with hot, soapy water. If needed, wipe down the inside of your fridge with a mixture of water and white vinegar to kill any lingering bacteria. Avoid using bleach, however, as the fumes make it unsafe for use around food.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to refresh your soft surfaces. Fabrics can easily trap bad smells, making it hard to keep your house pleasant. Carpets and upholstery should be steam cleaned about once a year. For freshening carpets and rugs between cleanings, try sprinkling them with baking soda and then vacuuming thoroughly. If you find urine or other spots, clean them immediately with an enzyme cleaner to ensure that they don’t leave nasty odors behind. If possible, wash bed linens, pillows, and other soft surfaces regularly to keep unpleasant odors at bay.
If you’ve cleaned your house thoroughly and yet still notice unwanted smells, there are a few more things you can try. For example, simply opening your windows and airing out your house can have a big impact on trapped odors. This is particularly effective at preventing cooking odors and smoke from getting trapped indoors. To deodorize your house while also adding a pleasant scent, try scented candles or simmer herbs and fruit in a small saucepan on the stove. Citrus slices, lavender, and mint can all add a pleasant aroma to the air and help replace any other smells. During the same period, however, note that strong scents aren’t always the best option for interior spaces. Avoid overly sweet or pungent scents that can quickly become overpowering; opt instead for natural florals, citrus, or woods. These subtle scents can help give your rental house a slight but pleasant scent.
If you’re looking for a new rental home to try these tips and tricks in, Real Property Management Endeavor has your next home! Check out our listings or call us at 636-244-5959.