How To Remove Household Odors

Place open boxes of baking soda in the fridge to absorb stinky food odors. To absorb cigarette smoke and other smells throughout the house, place a few drops of lemon, orange, or peppermint essential oil on a cotton ball, and place in a container with a perforated lid.

Scour wooden chopping blocks with a paste of lemon juice and baking soda or salt. Season with mineral oil.

Sanitize countertops and other surfaces by sponging them down with a mixture of one part 35 percent food-grade hydrogen peroxide to 11 parts water.

To deodorize your microwave, mix 2 tablespoons baking soda and 1 cup water in a large microwave-safe bowl. Run the microwave on high for two to three minutes. Wipe the inside.

Rid your home of cat smells. Empty the litter box, pour in an inch of white vinegar, and add baking soda and water. Let it soak for a few minutes, give it a good scrub, and rinse and dry. Soak, scrub, and add baking soda on the bottom before refilling.

Scrub the toilet bowl with vinegar. Pour a ½ cup of bleach and a ½ cup of water down drains to prevent unwanted odors.

Fill containers with activated charcoal and place in areas affected by mold and mildew. Take a deep breath, and enjoy the clean-smelling air!