Freshen Up Your Living Space with These DIY Odor Eliminators
February 13, 2023
Your living space is your sanctuary and the place where you spend most of your time. But a stale or unpleasant odor can quickly ruin the mood. While there are many commercial odor eliminators available in the market, they often contain harmful chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment. The good news is that you can easily make your own DIY odor eliminators using natural ingredients that are safe and effective.
In this post, I will show you some simple and affordable ways to freshen up your living space using natural ingredients that are easy to find. Whether it’s your bathroom, kitchen, or bedroom, I have got you covered with these DIY odor eliminators that will leave your living space smelling fresh and clean.
1. Introduction to DIY odor eliminators
We all love the feeling of walking into a fresh and clean living space. However, unpleasant odors can sometimes linger and ruin the ambiance. Whether it’s the smell of pets, cooking, or just everyday life, getting rid of bad odors can be a big challenge. But before you reach for those store-bought air fresheners that are loaded with harmful chemicals, try making your own DIY odor eliminators. Not only are they effective, but they are also affordable and easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your home.
In this blog post, I have compiled a list of our favorite DIY odor eliminators that are sure to freshen up your living space and leave you with a clean and inviting atmosphere. Say goodbye to unpleasant odors and hello to a fresh and clean home with these simple and natural DIY odor eliminators.
2. Why use DIY odor eliminators?
DIY odor eliminators are a great way to ensure that your living space smells fresh and clean, without having to rely on store-bought products that often contain harsh chemicals. By creating your own odor eliminators, you have complete control over the ingredients that you use and can tailor them to suit your specific needs. Plus, many of the ingredients used in these DIY recipes are inexpensive and readily available, making them a cost-effective solution to keeping your home smelling great.
Another great advantage of DIY odor eliminators is that they are often more environmentally friendly. Store-bought products often come in plastic containers that end up in landfills, whereas many homemade recipes use natural ingredients that are biodegradable and can be easily composted. Additionally, many store-bought products can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air which can be harmful to both humans and pets. By using natural ingredients, you can eliminate the risk of VOC exposure, making your home safer and healthier for everyone. Overall, DIY odor eliminators provide a natural, cost-effective, and environmentally-friendly way to keep your home smelling fresh and clean.
3. Five common household odors and how to eliminate them
No one likes to live in a home that smells bad. Unpleasant odors can be a real problem, especially if you have guests coming over. But sometimes, no matter how much you clean, certain odors persist. Here are five common household odors and how to eliminate them:
1. Pet odors: If you have pets, you know that they can leave behind some pretty potent smells. To get rid of pet odors, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz the affected area. The vinegar will neutralize the odor and eliminate any bacteria.
2. Smoke: Whether it’s from cigarettes or a fireplace, smoke can leave a strong and lasting odor. To eliminate smoke odor, place bowls of white vinegar around the room and let them sit overnight. The vinegar will absorb the odor.
3. Cooking odors: Strong cooking smells can linger in your home for hours after you’ve finished eating. To get rid of cooking odors, simmer a pot of water on the stove with a few slices of lemon, some cinnamon sticks, and a handful of cloves. The fragrant steam will help neutralize the odors.
4. Mold and mildew: Not only do mold and mildew smell bad, but they can also be harmful to your health. To get rid of these odors, mix one cup of hydrogen peroxide with two cups of water and spray the affected area. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away.
5. Trash: Garbage can quickly start to smell, especially if you don’t take it out regularly. To eliminate trash odors, sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the can before you add the bag. You can also add a few drops of essential oils to a cotton ball and place it in the bottom of the can for a fresh scent.
4. DIY odor eliminator #1: Natural air fresheners
One of the easiest and most effective ways to freshen up your living space is by using natural air fresheners as odor eliminators. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also much healthier for you and the environment than store-bought air fresheners that often contain harmful chemicals.
One of the simplest air fresheners you can make is a citrus and herb spray. All you need to do is combine water, citrus peels, and fresh herbs like rosemary, mint, or thyme in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray around your home as needed.
Another great natural air freshener is baking soda. It’s a natural deodorizer that can absorb and neutralize odors in your home. Simply sprinkle baking soda on carpets, upholstery, or any area that needs to be freshened up. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes and then vacuum it up.
If you’re looking for a more decorative way to freshen up your home, you can make your own scented candles using essential oils. All you need is soy wax, a wick, and your favorite essential oil. Melt the soy wax, add the essential oil, and pour into a jar. Let the candle set and cool, and you’ll have a beautiful and natural air freshener that also provides a cozy ambiance in your living space.
5. DIY odor eliminator #2: Homemade carpet deodorizer
Carpeted floors are comfortable underfoot and can add to the cozy feeling of a room. However, over time, carpets can absorb unpleasant odors, especially if you have pets or kids in the house. Fortunately, you can make your very own carpet deodorizer using common household ingredients. All you need is baking soda, essential oils, and a jar with a lid.
To make your DIY carpet deodorizer, start by pouring one cup of baking soda into a jar. Next, add 10-20 drops of your favorite essential oil. Lavender, peppermint, and lemon are all great choices for their pleasant scents and natural deodorizing properties. Close the lid and give the jar a good shake to mix the ingredients.
To use your carpet deodorizer, simply sprinkle the mixture evenly over your carpets and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Then, vacuum up the powder and enjoy the fresh, clean scent of your carpets. You can repeat this process as often as needed to keep your carpets smelling great.
Making your own carpet deodorizer is not only a great way to eliminate odors, but it’s also a budget-friendly alternative to store-bought products. Plus, you can customize the scent to your liking and avoid harsh chemicals that may be present in commercial deodorizers. Give it a try and see how easy it is to freshen up your living space with this DIY solution.
6. DIY odor eliminator #3: Refrigerator deodorizer
Refrigerators are a major source of unpleasant smells in most homes. Even the most spotless and well-organized refrigerator can start to smell bad over time due to the accumulation of food, spills, and general use. Fortunately, there is a simple and effective DIY solution to this problem.
To create your own refrigerator deodorizer, start by gathering some baking soda, an empty container, and a few drops of essential oil. Mix the baking soda and essential oil together in the container until well combined. The baking soda will absorb any unwanted odors, while the essential oil will give your fridge a fresh and pleasant scent.
Place the container in the back of your refrigerator and let it work its magic. You should notice a significant improvement in the smell of your fridge within a few hours. To keep your refrigerator smelling fresh and clean, simply replace the deodorizer every 2-3 months. This is a simple and affordable solution that will make a big difference in your home’s overall freshness.
7. DIY odor eliminator #4: DIY garbage disposal fresheners
Garbage disposals are a great way to keep your kitchen clean and tidy, but they can also produce unpleasant odors. One way to combat these odors is to use store-bought garbage disposal fresheners, but these can be expensive and full of chemicals. That’s why making your own DIY garbage disposal fresheners is a great alternative.
To make your own garbage disposal fresheners, start by cutting up lemon or lime peels into small pieces. Next, fill an ice cube tray with the peels and pour distilled white vinegar over the top until the tray is full. Freeze the tray for several hours until the cubes are solid.
To use the fresheners, simply drop one or two cubes into the garbage disposal and turn it on. The ice will help clean the blades, while the citrus and vinegar will help eliminate any unpleasant odors. Plus, the fresh scent of lemon or lime will leave your kitchen smelling great.
This DIY solution is not only easy and affordable, but it’s also eco-friendly. By using natural ingredients and avoiding harsh chemicals, you’re not only freshening up your living space but also contributing to a healthier environment. Give it a try and see how much of a difference it can make in your home.
8. DIY odor eliminator #5: Homemade laundry detergent
If you’re looking for a way to freshen up your living space while also saving money, then making your own laundry detergent could be a great option for you. Not only is it all-natural and chemical-free, but it’s also a great way to eliminate odors from your clothes and linens.
Most store-bought laundry detergents contain harsh chemicals that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. By making your own, you can control the ingredients and ensure that it’s safe for your family and the environment.
To make your own laundry detergent, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients: washing soda, borax, and a bar of soap. You can add essential oils to give it a fresh scent or even vinegar to help eliminate odors.
Simply grate the bar of soap and mix it with the washing soda and borax. Store it in an airtight container and use as you would any other laundry detergent. Not only will it clean your clothes, but it will also leave them smelling fresh and clean.
By using this homemade laundry detergent, you can eliminate the need for store-bought fabric softeners and dryer sheets, which can also contain harmful chemicals. It’s a great way to save money and keep your home smelling fresh and clean.
9. Tips for keeping your living space smelling fresh
No one wants their living space to smell unpleasant. Luckily, there are several easy and inexpensive tricks to keep your home smelling fresh and clean.
First, make sure to regularly open windows and doors to allow for proper ventilation. This is especially important when cooking or cleaning, as these activities can often create strong odors.
Another great way to keep your living space smelling fresh is by using natural odor eliminators, such as baking soda, vinegar, or essential oils. Baking soda is great for absorbing odors in carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Simply sprinkle it on, let it sit for a few minutes, then vacuum it up.
For tough odors, vinegar can be used to neutralize and eliminate the smell. Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and use it to clean surfaces like countertops, floors, and walls. Not only will it eliminate odors, but it will also disinfect surfaces.
Essential oils are another great natural odor eliminator. Add a few drops of your favorite scent to a diffuser or mix with water in a spray bottle to freshen up any room. Some popular scents for eliminating odors include lavender, lemon, and peppermint.
Finally, don’t forget about the power of cleaning! Regularly cleaning surfaces, floors, and fabrics in your home is crucial for keeping odors at bay. Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean fabrics, and be sure to clean all surfaces thoroughly with disinfectant cleaners.
By using these tips and tricks, you can easily keep your living space smelling fresh and clean without breaking the bank or using harsh chemicals.