Chemicals can often come with a wide range of harmful and allergic consequences. Once an odor develops within the home, people seeking to live a chemical free life style can question whether there are any viable deodorizing solutions available.
Fortunately, their exist a handful of household remedies that can eliminate odors without such exposure for those who would prefer to minimize the use of chemicals. The following tips and tricks can help wipeout nearly any odor without the use of any chemicals.
Smell Removal Solutions Without Chemicals
1 Sunlight
The use of sunlight is arguably the most effective solution for reducing and removing odors from household items. To apply this solution, you will need to find a location within the yard where the smelly item is likely to receive a minimum of eight hours of direct sunlight. Additionally, if any odor exists within the item after the first day, you may need to consider placing it within the sun for a second or third day until it has been completely deodorized.
2 Fresh Air + Open Space
Fresh air and open space also work to diffuse and lift away odors. Placing the item outdoors for several days will naturally lift away much of the odors within the vast openness. Additionally, the fresh breeze coming into contact with smelly fabric has been known to carry away residual smells found within the fiber.
3 Clean Water
Though usually combined with a deodorizing compound, water by itself can have a powerful effect on breaking down odorous residues found within household surfaces, items and textiles. For best results, always place the item or hang textiles outdoors within the sun after rinsing away any odorous residues.
4 Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal possesses wonderful odor absorbent capabilities. This material works best for smaller items and textiles that can fit within a cardboard box. To use activated charcoal for your deodorizing efforts, you will need to place these briquettes within an old pair of nylon stocking. Next, place the smelly item and the nylon enclosed charcoal briquettes within an enclosed box for 5-7 days. During this time, the activated charcoal will absorb much of the item’s stench to deliver effective deodorizing results.
5 Lava Rocks
similar to activated charcoal, lava rocks can work well at absorbing difficult odors. Place enough lava rocks with within storage box to line the flooring. Next, place the smelly item inside the box and proceed to seal it. Allow the item to deodorize for the next 5-7 days before removing the freshened item.
6 Open Windows & Doors
This solution is fantastic for difficult home and automotive odors that are confined within these spaces. As a general principle, you will need to open all windows and doors within close proximity to a source of the odor. This will allow fresh air to pass freely through the space and carry the odor away.
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Photo credit: Horia Varlan