That delicious aroma of garlic sauteing in olive oil? Wonderful while you’re cooking, not so much the next morning. Lingering food smells can be a real nuisance. If you’re wondering How To Get Food Smells Out Of The House, especially those stubborn odors like fish, fried food, or burnt popcorn, you’re in the right place. This guide provides proven methods to eliminate cooking odors and keep your home smelling fresh.
1. Simmer Citrus Power: Lemon or Orange Boil
One of the easiest and most effective ways to neutralize pungent odors is with citrus. Cut a lemon or orange in half (or use leftover peels!) and add it to a pot of boiling water. Let it simmer on low for 15-30 minutes. The citrus steam will naturally absorb and eliminate odors, leaving a fresh, clean scent. For an extra boost, add a tablespoon of baking soda to the water. The baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer.
2. Baking Soda or Vinegar: The Overnight Odor Absorbers
For persistent smells, baking soda and vinegar are your best friends. Place a bowl or two of either baking soda or white vinegar on your kitchen counter overnight. Both are excellent natural odor absorbers. Baking soda is alkaline and neutralizes acidic odors, while vinegar’s acidity can neutralize alkaline odors. You can even keep a small open container of baking soda near the stove while cooking to absorb odors as they arise.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ArmHammerbakingsoda-a705cc4ff43344afa43bbacd964bfdf5.jpg)
3. Ventilation is Key: Open Windows and Use Your Range Hood
This may seem obvious, but proper ventilation is crucial. When cooking, especially foods with strong odors, open windows to create airflow. More importantly, use your range hood (also known as a vent hood or exhaust fan) above your stove. Turn it on before you start cooking to draw odors, smoke, and steam outside, preventing them from spreading throughout your home. Cleaning your range hood filters regularly will also keep it working effectively.
4. Sink Solutions: Refresh Your Drain
Sometimes, the source of the odor isn’t the cooking itself, but the sink. Food particles trapped in the drain can create unpleasant smells. Run hot water down the drain for a few minutes. You can also pour a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it fizz for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water. If the smell persists, consider using a drain cleaner or enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for kitchen sinks.
5. Stovetop Potpourri: A Natural Air Freshener
Create your own natural air freshener by simmering a stovetop potpourri. Combine citrus peels (orange, lemon, grapefruit), apple peels, cloves, cinnamon sticks, rosemary sprigs, and other aromatic ingredients in a pot of water. Simmer on low heat while cooking or after to release a pleasant fragrance that will mask and absorb cooking smells. This also adds moisture to the air, which is beneficial during dry seasons.
6. Charcoal Filter Splatter Screen: Prevent Grease and Odors
If you frequently fry foods, consider investing in a charcoal filter splatter screen. This handy kitchen tool sits on top of your frying pan, preventing grease splatters and absorbing odors as you cook. The charcoal filter traps airborne particles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to unpleasant cooking smells. Remember to replace the charcoal filter regularly for optimal performance.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/kitchenaid-odor-absorbing-splatter-screen-07759cc9a24546e08f97065321fab16e.jpg)
7. Air Purifier: Invest in Clean Air
An air purifier with a HEPA filter and activated carbon filter can be a game-changer in removing cooking smells. HEPA filters capture airborne particles like smoke and grease, while activated carbon filters absorb odors and gases. Place the air purifier in your kitchen or nearby living area to effectively remove cooking smells and improve air quality.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/levoit-air-purifier-79ff3ae4b5d646f79e95fa1627e4fc64.jpg)
8. Coffee Grounds: More Than Just a Morning Brew
Coffee grounds are excellent at absorbing odors. After brewing your morning coffee, don’t throw away the grounds! Place the used coffee grounds in shallow bowls around your kitchen to absorb cooking smells. You can also gently heat the coffee grounds in a pan on the stove to release a more intense coffee aroma that will overpower unwanted odors.
9. Vinegar Steam: A Potent Odor Neutralizer
Similar to simmering lemons, vinegar steam is a powerful odor neutralizer. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a pot and bring to a simmer. Let it simmer for 30-60 minutes. The vinegar steam will effectively absorb and neutralize even the most stubborn cooking smells. Don’t worry, the vinegar smell will dissipate quickly.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/AmazonBrand-HappyBellyDistilledVinegar-2bb0330096f044dc8c71364faf6a930b.jpg)
10. Compost Bin Management: Freezer Freshness
If you compost food scraps, your compost bin can be a source of unpleasant odors. To minimize smells, use a compost bin with a tight-fitting lid and a built-in odor filter. You can also store your compost bin in the freezer. The cold temperature will slow down decomposition and prevent odors from escaping.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/JosephJoseph30016IntelligentWasteCompostBin-94e97e692abe430eaf2a76ce991334c4.jpg)
By implementing these simple yet effective strategies, you can easily get food smells out of the house and maintain a fresh, inviting home environment. Remember, prevention is key! Good ventilation, regular cleaning, and prompt disposal of food waste will go a long way in minimizing cooking odors.
