This padded insulation material can acquire an unpleasant stench from built-up of chemicals and residues. The foul aroma can bury itself deep within the foam and create a serious obstacle during the deodorizing process.
Fortunately, there exist a range of household solutions for eliminating the odorous residues and lifting the unpleasant aromas from the foam. In using the methods outline below, you can be sure that your foam insulation will be fresh and free of any foul smelling fumes.
Foam Smell Removal Solutions
1 White Vinegar Spray
This common acid can work wonders in cutting though difficult foam odors. To utilize, mix a solution of one part white vinegar with four parts water inside a generic spray bottle. Proceed to spray down the the piece of foam ensuring that all areas have become sufficiently moistened. Once completed, hang the piece of foam outside to allow the piece of foam to naturally dry off. During this process, the vinegar will have the effect of eliminating the odor while the open space lifts it away.
2 Sprinkle Baking Soda
The use of baking soda can be highly effective in cases where the foam has been affected only on one side. Sprinkle heavy amounts of baking soda over the affected locations and allow it to settle in for 3-5 days. Upon completion, the baking soda can be shuck off outside and the freshened foam can be placed back within use. The use of baking soda can also be used in cases where the foam is insulated within a cover. In such cases, the baking soda can simply be sprinkled within the case, zip closed and forgotten as it slowly works to freshen the foam within.
3 Lemon Juice Spray
The citric acid within lemon spray can work well with many odors found within foam. Mix a solution of one part lemon juice with eight parts water inside a generic spray bottle. Move forward with spraying down the entire surface area of the foam, ensuring that no affected area is missed. Similar to the white vinegar spray, you will want to proceed with hanging the recently treated foam outside to properly deodorize within open space. Once the foam has completely dried, the freshened foam can be brought inside and placed back within use.
4 Vodka Spritz
Many may be surprised that this party drink has been used by many for generation to deodorize household items. The high levels of alcohol help to wipe out odorous residues on contact and dry away without imparting a sharp alcohol stench. Pour a small portion of vodka within a generic spray bottle and move forward with spraying down all smelly areas of the foam. Again, proceed to hang the foam outside and put back into use once the alcohol has quickly evaporated away.
5 Solar Rays
This incredibly simple solution can take days, but work well in eliminating foam odors without the use of any chemicals. Find a location within the yard where the foam is sure to receive a minimum of eight hour of direct sunlight to place the foam. The natural forces of the open space, fresh air and direct UV rays will help to eliminate all odors found within the foam. Place the foam outside for a second or third day if any odor remains after the first day.
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Photo credit: Melissa Gray