How to get rid of cooking smells in a small apartment, eliminate cooking odors, learn quick fixes, long-term strategies, and preventive measures for fresh-smelling living spaces.
The challenge of cooking odors in small living spaces is a common issue for many apartment dwellers. Maintaining fresh air in an apartment contributes to over all well being, comfort and health. Here are the best methods to combat persistent food smells and keep your small apartment smelling fresh.
Cooking Smells in Small Apartment
Let’s face it, we’ve all been there. You whip up a delicious caserole or fry some fish, and the next thing you know, your entire apartment smells like a restaurant kitchen. But why do these cooking smells linger so stubbornly in small apartments?
Well, it’s mostly due to the limited space and poor ventilation. In a tiny apartment, there’s simply nowhere for those odors to go. They cling to your curtains, seep into your couch, and even stick to your clothes. It’s like they’re playing hide and seek, but they never want to be found!
Common culprits of strong cooking odors include spices like cumin, garlic and onion, fried foods, and fish. These ingredients are fantastic for our taste buds but not so great for our noses in the long run.
Odor Eliminator for Cooking -Preventive Measures
Now, let’s talk about nipping this problem in the bud. Prevention is better than cure, right? One of the most effective preventive measures is proper ventilation. If your kitchen has an exhaust fan, use it! If not, consider investing in a portable one. It’s like giving those pesky odors a one-way ticket out of your apartment.
Another simple yet effective trick is using lids and covering pots while cooking. It’s like putting a lid on Pandora’s box of smells. Plus, it helps your food cook faster and more evenly. Win-win!
You might also want to rethink your cooking methods. Steaming and boiling produce fewer odors compared to frying or grilling. So, maybe save that pan-seared steak for special occasions and opt for a nice steamed fish more often.
Quick Fixes During Cooking
But what if you’re in the middle of cooking up a storm and suddenly realize you’re creating a smelly situation? Don’t panic! There are some quick fixes on How to get rid of cooking smells in a small apartment.
First, throw open those windows! Creating cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of your apartment can work wonders. It’s like creating a superhighway for odors to exit.
If you have an exhaust fan, now’s the time to crank it up to full power. Let it be your odor-fighting superhero!
And here’s a neat trick: while you’re cooking, try simmering some natural air fresheners. A pot of water with some lemon slices, vinegar, or herbs can help neutralize odors. It’s like fighting fire with fire, but in this case, it’s fighting smell with smell!
Post-Cooking Odor Elimination
Alright, so the cooking’s done, but the battle against odors isn’t over yet. This is where some post-cooking odor elimination strategies come in handy.
If you’re living in a small apartment, an air purifier can be a game-changer. It’s like having a 24/7 odor patrol in your home.
Activated charcoal odor absorbers are another great option. These little packets of wonder can suck up odors like a vacuum cleaner sucks up dust.
And let’s not forget about essential oil diffusers and natural sprays. They not only mask odors but can also create a pleasant atmosphere. Lavender, anyone?
I love using Febreze If I need to quickly remove odors after cooking. Decor tip **Keep your Febreze in a cute little plant mister so you can keep it on your kitchen counter!
DIY Deodorizing Air Freshener Spray
If you are against using products like Febreze, try using DIY deodorizing sprays.
- 2/3 cup of distilled water
- 2 tbsp of vodka
- 5 drops tea tree essential oil
- 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
DIY Laundry Detergent Room Spray
Here’s a simple recipe for a DIY room spray that uses laundry detergent to give your space that fresh, laundry-clean aroma.
- 1 tablespoon of your favorite liquid laundry detergent
- 1 tablespoon of your favorite fabric softener
- 1 cup distilled water
- 1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol or vodka
Other DIY Odor Eliminators
If you’re feeling crafty, there are plenty of other DIY odor eliminators you can whip up with items you probably already have in your kitchen.
How to get rid of cooking smells in a small apartment simply by baking soda… it is a superstar when it comes to absorbing odors. Sprinkle it on carpets before vacuuming, or leave an open box in your fridge.
Coffee grounds aren’t just for your morning brew; they’re great odor neutralizers too. Try putting some in a bowl in your kitchen.
And don’t underestimate the power of vinegar. A spray bottle filled with equal parts water and white vinegar can be your go-to odor fighter.
Deep Cleaning Solutions: The Power of Steam Cleaning
Sometimes, those stubborn odors need more than just a quick fix. That’s when it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get into some deep cleaning.
Start with fabrics and upholstery. These are like sponges for odors. Wash what you can, and consider steam cleaning for the rest. Steam cleaning has the power to eliminate fabric orders – by investing a steam cleaner you can tackle all tough odors.
And let’s not overlook carpets and rugs. These floor coverings can be major odor traps. A thorough vacuuming followed by deodorizing can freshen them up nicely.
Green Machine Cleaning Mixture to Fight Odors
Here’s a powerful and fresh-smelling DIY “Green Machine” cleaning mixture that’s perfect for keeping your home spotless and inviting. This all-purpose cleaner combines the cleaning power of laundry detergent, the softness and fragrance of fabric softener, and the stain-fighting abilities of Folex to tackle even the toughest grime. It’s not just about making surfaces clean—it’s also about infusing your living space with that unmistakable “fresh laundry” scent that instantly makes your home feel comfortable and welcoming. Whether you’re dealing with everyday messes or stubborn spots, this mixture will leave your surfaces sparkling and your rooms smelling incredible, creating an environment that’s both clean and cozy.
- Fill water up to water line on furniture steam cleaner
- 1/4 tablespoon liquid laundry detergent: Choose a detergent with a fresh scent you love.
- 3 tablespoon fabric softener: This adds a nice lingering scent and makes fabrics feel soft.
- 1/4 cup Folex Instant Carpet Spot Remover: Folex is excellent for tackling stubborn spots and stains.
- 1/3 cups white Vinegar: Helps dilute the mixture to make it safe for most surfaces.
Long-Term Cleaning Strategies
Now, let’s think long-term. How can we prevent this from being a recurring issue?
Investing in quality cookware and appliances can make a big difference. Non-stick pans, for instance, require less oil, which means less odor.
Regular maintenance of your kitchen exhaust system is crucial. It’s like giving your odor-fighting superhero a regular power boost.
And here’s an idea: why not bring nature indoors? Certain plants like peace lilies and snake plants are natural air purifiers. It’s like having your own mini forest working to keep your air fresh!
Professional Solutions
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we need to call in the pros. If you’re dealing with persistent odors that just won’t quit, it might be time to consider professional cleaning services.
For really stubborn smells, ozone treatments can be effective. But remember, these should always be done by professionals.
And if you’re renting, don’t hesitate to consult with your property management about major ventilation issues. After all, proper ventilation is part of maintaining a habitable living space.
If you want more tips and tricks check out our:
Maintaining a Fresh-Smelling Apartment
Lastly, let’s talk about maintenance. Keeping your apartment smelling fresh is an ongoing process, not a one-time thing.
Develop daily habits like taking out the trash regularly, wiping down kitchen surfaces after cooking, and keeping windows open for a bit each day.
Implement weekly and monthly cleaning routines. This might include things like washing your kitchen curtains, cleaning out your fridge, or deep cleaning your stovetop.
And finally, try to strike a balance between your love for cooking and apartment living. Maybe save those really pungent dishes for when you’re dining out, or plan them for times when you can air out your apartment thoroughly afterward.
Remember, a fresh-smelling home is a happy home. Happy cooking, and even happier breathing!
Conclusion
How to get rid of cooking smells in a small apartment – By implementing a combination of preventive measures, quick fixes, and long-term strategies, you can effectively combat cooking smells in your small apartment. Remember to maintain good ventilation, use odor-absorbing materials, and practice regular cleaning routines. With these methods, you can enjoy cooking in your small space without worrying about lingering odors.
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