Q Reader’s Odor Question
“Help! My Christmas tree smells exactly like cat urine. The smell has overcome the entire living room and I don’t know what to do to get rid of the odor. I have tried spraying the tree with lysol and sprinkling baking soda on the tree. Although the baking soda looks fantastic as a replacement for snow, it has done absolutely nothing to remove the tree stench. Please get back to me soon! Thank you!”
A Smell Removal Answers
1 Change the Water in Christmas Tree Stand
Stagnant water within the Christmas tree stand is usually the source of the odor. It can take as little as 5-7 days for a smell to develop within this water, so it is especially important that it gets poured out and replaced on a weekly basis. Though the stench may smell of cat urine, this similar sharp aroma is normally the cause.
2 Hose Christmas Tree Down
Often, the smell of cat urine is the direct result of cat or other tree dwelling animal’s urine. In such cases, the Christmas tree can be taken outside and given a heavy spray with the garden hose to wash the ammonia-based odor away. Once complete, place the erect tree within a location of the yard where it will receive a minimum of 8 hours of direct sunlight. Once the Christmas tree has completely dried off, it can be taken back within the home and placed within the stand.
3 Spray Tree with Vodka
The high level of alcohol within this solution can help to immediately cut through the ammonia stench. Pour a small portion of vodka within a generic spray bottle and proceed to mist down the entire tree. As a final step, windows can be opened to expedite the drying process.
4 Place Tree Outside in Direct Sunlight
As a final solution, the Christmas tree can be placed erect outside within direct sunlight until the odor dissipates. Similarly, you will want the tree to be in a location within the yard where it will be sure to receive a minimum of 8 hours of direct sunlight. The ultraviolet rays, open space and fresh air will all work to naturally lift away any unwelcome odors. If this solution has not been effective after one day, try leaving the tree outside for two or even three days until the smell is gone.
[contact]
Photo credit: Jon Ross