How To Get Rid Of Cigarette Smell

Cigarette smoke has a strong, lingering odour that can infiltrate every corner of a home or vehicle. Whether you’re a property manager trying to refresh a rental unit, a homeowner aiming to sell, or someone who simply wants a fresher living environment, it’s essential to tackle this stubborn smell effectively. As experts in crime and trauma scene biohazard cleaning, we have ample experience in addressing pervasive odours and ensuring environments are clean and safe. Here’s how you can eliminate the tenacious cigarette smell for good.

1. Air Out The Space

The very first step in removing cigarette odour is to allow fresh air in. Open all windows and doors. If you’re dealing with a vehicle, leave all the car doors open for several hours. Fresh air circulation is vital in pushing out the stale, smoky air.

2. Wash Fabric Surfaces

Cigarette smoke clings to fabrics. Wash all removable fabrics like curtains, bedding, cushion covers, and clothing. Consider adding a cup of distilled white vinegar to the wash, as vinegar is known for its odour-neutralising properties.

3. Clean Hard Surfaces

The tar and residue from cigarette smoke can settle on walls, ceilings, and floors. Use a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap to scrub these surfaces thoroughly. For more stubborn stains, you might consider using a dedicated wall cleaner or degreaser.

4. Neutralise Carpets And Upholstery

Carpets and upholstery are notorious for trapping cigarette odour. Use baking soda by sprinkling it generously over these surfaces. Let it sit for several hours (or overnight) and then vacuum thoroughly. For deeper cleaning, consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring professionals.

5. Use Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is excellent for absorbing odours. Place bowls filled with activated charcoal around the affected areas and let them sit for a few days. This method is especially effective in closed spaces like closets and cars.

6. Clean The Air With An Air Purifier

Investing in a quality air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove tiny particles and smells from the air. It’s especially effective if combined with other methods on this list.

7. Paint Over Persistent Odours

If, after deep cleaning, there’s still a residual odour, painting can be a final measure. Use an odour-sealing primer before applying your chosen paint colour. This will lock in any remaining odours and give the room a fresh start.

8. Regular Maintenance

Even after the initial cleaning, you might find that the smell tends to come back, especially during humid conditions. Regularly air out the space, use air purifiers, and consider repeating some of the above steps as maintenance.

9. Natural Odour Absorbers

Apart from activated charcoal, there are other natural odour absorbers you can use. Fresh coffee grounds, for example, can be placed in bowls and set in rooms to help absorb odours. Similarly, white vinegar can also be placed in shallow bowls around the affected area.

10. Tackle Wooden Surfaces

Wooden furniture and surfaces can absorb and retain the smell of smoke. Clean them using a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Wipe down the surfaces thoroughly and then let them air dry.

Why Removing Cigarette Smell is Essential

Eliminating cigarette odours is not just about aesthetics or personal preferences. Lingering smoke can pose health risks, especially to children, elderly individuals, or those with respiratory conditions. Smoke residue, often referred to as third-hand smoke, can remain on surfaces and release toxins. For landlords and homeowners, a smoke-free environment can also significantly enhance the property’s value and appeal to potential buyers or renters.

Removing cigarette odours can be a challenge, but with persistence and the right techniques, you can reclaim your space’s freshness. As professionals in biohazard cleaning, we understand the importance of thorough cleaning and ensuring environments are free from potential hazards. By following this guide, you’re on your way to a cleaner, fresher, and healthier living or working environment.

Need A Hand With Cigarette Smell Odour Removal?

When it comes to professional odour removal, you can count on the team at National Trauma (NTCSC). We’ve been Australia’s trusted odour removal and biohazard cleaning specialists for over 30 years and are ready to help whenever you need us 24/7.

Speak to our team to find out more about our cigarette smell odour removal and biohazard services and ask for a free no obligation quote today.