Whether it’s lingering cooking smells, pet odors, or just a musty scent from lack of airflow, unpleasant odors can easily take over a small space like an apartment. Fortunately, there are plenty of practical methods to freshen up your space and keep it smelling clean and inviting. Here are several tried-and-true ways to deodorize your apartment naturally and effectively.
1. Open the Windows and Let Fresh Air In
The simplest and most effective first step is ventilation. Fresh air helps carry odors out and replace them with clean, outdoor air. Open windows in opposite directions to create cross-ventilation, even if it’s just for 10–15 minutes a day.
2. Use Baking Soda to Neutralize Odors
Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. You can:
- Sprinkle it on carpets or upholstery, let it sit for 15–30 minutes, then vacuum it up.
- Leave small open bowls of baking soda in smelly areas like the fridge, closets, or near trash cans.
3. Simmer Natural Fragrances on the Stove
Simmering water with ingredients like cinnamon sticks, citrus peels, cloves, or rosemary can quickly add a pleasant aroma to your space. It’s a cozy, chemical-free way to freshen the air, especially after cooking.
4. Vinegar as a Natural Deodorizer
White vinegar doesn’t mask odors—it eliminates them. Try:
- Mixing equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle to mist into the air or onto fabric.
- Leaving a bowl of vinegar in a room overnight to absorb lingering smells (don’t worry, the vinegar smell fades quickly).
5. Activated Charcoal for Strong Odors
Activated charcoal is a powerful odor absorber often used in air purifying bags. Place a few charcoal sachets in closets, shoe cabinets, bathrooms, or near trash bins to trap odors at the source.
6. Houseplants That Purify the Air
Certain houseplants can improve air quality and subtly freshen the air. Good options include:
- Peace Lily
- Spider Plant
- English Ivy
- Snake Plant
They also add a natural aesthetic touch to your space.
7. Clean Fabric Surfaces Regularly
Fabrics like curtains, carpets, rugs, and couches can trap odors. Vacuum them frequently and use a fabric refresher spray or steam clean them occasionally to remove embedded smells.
8. Use Essential Oils for a Pleasant Scent
Diffusers with essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, or citrus can fill your home with a clean and natural scent. You can also mix a few drops into your cleaning solution or make your own room spray.
9. Keep Trash and Drains Clean
Regularly empty trash bins and clean them with soap or vinegar. Also, pour baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water down the drain weekly to eliminate sink odors caused by food or bacteria buildup.
10. Laundry and Pet Maintenance
Dirty laundry and pet bedding are common odor culprits. Wash clothes and linens regularly and keep your pet’s area clean. Use enzymatic cleaners for pet accidents, which break down odor-causing bacteria.
Final Thought
Keeping your apartment smelling fresh doesn’t require heavy-duty chemical sprays. With a few natural and consistent habits, you can eliminate odors at the source and enjoy a space that always feels clean and comfortable.