Smelly furniture can be a persistent and off-putting issue, often arising from various sources such as spills, pet odors, or even the passage of time. Whether you have a vintage sofa and need to know how to get musty smell out of furniture or need to know how to get smells out of wood furniture, it’s important to be able to identify the source of the odor and understand how to eliminate it. Ready to say goodbye to unpleasant odors and hello to a fresher, more enjoyable home environment? Here’s how to get smell out of furniture.
7 Ways to Remove Smells From Furniture
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a versatile odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount over the smelly area of your furniture, let it sit for several hours or overnight, and then vacuum it up. Baking soda effectively neutralizes odors by absorbing them.
2. Vinegar
White vinegar is another natural deodorizer. Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle, then lightly mist the affected area. Allow it to air dry. As the vinegar evaporates, it will help eliminate odors.
3. Sunlight
Sunlight can be a powerful ally in removing odors—especially for those wondering how to get musty smell out of furniture. Place the smelly furniture outdoors in direct sunlight for a few hours. UV rays from the sun can help break down odor-causing compounds and freshen up your furniture. Be cautious with this method for delicate or antique pieces to avoid sun damage.
4. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is highly effective at absorbing odors. Place activated charcoal pouches or briquettes in drawers, cabinets, or near the furniture. Leave them for a few days to absorb and neutralize odors. Remember to replace or reactivate the charcoal as needed.
5. Paint
Here’s how to remove musty smell from wood furniture. Consider sealing wood furniture with paint or a clear sealant. This can help trap lingering odors within the wood, preventing them from permeating your living space.
6. Essential Oils
Mix a few drops of your favorite essential oils with water in a spray bottle and lightly mist your furniture. Essential oils like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus can serve as a mold smell remover and add a pleasant fragrance.
7. Fabric Fresheners
For upholstered furniture, use fabric fresheners or upholstery sprays designed to eliminate odors, including acting as a mold smell remover. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe and effective use.
Remember to test any cleaning or deodorizing method on a small, inconspicuous area of your furniture first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.
How to Avoid Bad Smell In Furniture
Once your couch smells musty, it’s not something you’ll ever want to return to! Preventing bad odors from returning to furniture is essential for maintaining a fresh and pleasant living space. Here are some effective strategies to keep your furniture smelling good:
Regular Cleaning: Establish a routine cleaning schedule for your furniture. Dust and debris can accumulate over time, contributing to unpleasant odors. Vacuum upholstered furniture and wipe down wooden surfaces regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and dust that can trap odors. Don’t forget to clean the carpets to keep your whole space smelling fresh.
Upholstery Protection: Consider using fabric protectors or sprays designed to repel stains and odors on upholstered furniture. These products create a barrier that makes it easier to clean spills and accidents before they become odor issues.
Pet Maintenance: If you have pets, address accidents promptly. Clean up any spills or messes immediately, as lingering pet odors can be particularly stubborn. Invest in pet-friendly furniture with removable and washable covers to make cleanup easier.
Proper Ventilation: Ensure good airflow in your home to reduce the risk of musty odors developing in furniture. Open windows regularly to let in fresh air, use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms and consider using air purifiers to maintain clean indoor air.
Avoid Smoking Indoors: If you smoke, do so outside to prevent smoke odors from permeating your furniture and home. Smoking indoors can leave a persistent and unpleasant smell that is difficult to remove.
Humidity Control: Maintain optimal indoor humidity levels to prevent mold and mildew growth, which can lead to musty odors in furniture. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas and ensure proper ventilation in humid environments.
Storage Solutions: When storing furniture, especially for extended periods, use climate-controlled storage units to prevent moisture buildup and odors. Consider using furniture covers to protect against dust and odors during storage.
By implementing these preventive measures and being proactive in addressing spills and accidents, you can significantly reduce the chances of bad odors returning in your furniture, creating a more pleasant and inviting home environment.
Need a Hand With This Task?
If you need assistance tackling stubborn odors or maintaining the freshness of your furniture, Taskers are here to help! There are skilled and experienced local Taskers who specialize in cleaning and deodorizing furniture, so your home can remain a delightful and inviting space. Whether it’s a deep clean, upholstery care, or any other furniture-related task, always remember you can book a Tasker to help.
