Old homes can be filled with unique features, beautiful molding, and so much charm. But they can also come with that “old home smell” that’s particularly challenging to get rid of.
According to Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly company, this scent could be due to a variety of factors. Eliminating the odor for good may require deep cleaning multiple areas of the home, and, in some cases, even bringing in professionals. However, there are some reliable methods you can use to start ridding the odor from your space and giving your old home a fresh, new scent. Here’s everything cleaning experts recommend.
Open the Windows
The easiest and fastest thing you can do when an old home doesn’t smell good is to open all the windows. “This will invite fresh air in and push stale air out,” says Katie Dills, president of The Cleaning Authority.
Inspect for Rodents and Insects
Mock tells me rodents and insects can be one cause of that old house smell. So, if you suspect a problem, it’s best to call in an exterminator to thoroughly check areas an untrained eye might miss. Dead rodents can produce a terrible stench, and a professional will know how to properly address the issue.
Dust the Baseboards
While dust might be visible on floors and furniture, it often hides in less obvious places, and it can contribute to that not-so-clean smell. “The buildup of dust and grime on baseboards can easily go unnoticed,” explains Dills. “Use a vacuum with a bristled brush hose attachment to remove dust. Then, use a sponge or microfiber cloth and clean the baseboards with a solution of ¾ warm water and ¼ dish soap. Be sure to wring the sponge out well to avoid getting too much water on the wood.”
Clean Inside Those Old Kitchen Cabinets
Vintage cabinets can be charming, but they may also harbor unwanted smells. “These can trap old food particles and grease, which contribute to the smell,” Dils notes. “To clean: Vacuum out any crumbs inside, then wipe down with a damp, soapy cloth. For the exterior, use a mixture of dish soap and warm water.” Avoid using any harsh cleaners, especially on aging finishes or vintage cabinets.
Deep Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Small particles of food can create a big stink. So, Dills suggests doing a thorough deep clean of your garbage disposal. “Start by cleaning the splash guard with baking soda and a sponge or scrubber—don’t forget to scrub both the top and underside of the rubber flaps,” she says. “Next, flush with cold water, then add ½ cup of baking soda. Let it sit for fifteen to thirty minutes, then pour in 1 cup of vinegar. When it starts to fizz, rinse with cold water.”
If the fragrance lingers, the pro cleaner recommends tossing in a handful of ice and a few citrus wedges, then running the disposal with cold water.
Clean the Carpet
If the carpet is old, stained, and dirty, the best option may be to tear it out and replace it. However, if you plan to keep it, Dills suggests hiring a professional cleaner. “This should be done every six months—or, at the very least, once a year,” she says. “Going forward, sprinkle baking soda on the carpet regularly, along with consistent vacuuming, to help deodorize it.”
Steam Your Upholstered Furniture
Like carpeting, upholstery—whether it’s a vintage loveseat or a cool modern bed with a velvet headboard—traps dirt, dust, and odors. Mock recommends having upholstery professionally steam cleaned to eliminate that strange stink. Many carpet-cleaning services also offer upholstery cleaning, so you may be able to tackle both problems at the same time.
Replace Old HVAC Filters
If you’re unsure when the HVAC filter was last replaced, it’s probably time to do it. Mock notes that old filters can be a source of odors and they also help spread dust and dirt throughout the house. This is usually a cheap and easy fix that can make a major impact. You’ll also end up saving money in the long run because your HVAC will run more efficiently with a fresh filter.
Redecorate Your Walls
If you’re planning to redecorate after addressing odors, know that fresh wallpaper or paint can help eliminate lingering smells—especially if the current wallpaper is old or musty. Consider buying odor-blocking paint and primer for extra coverage.
Invest in a Dehumidifier or Air Purifier
Keeping an older home odor-free requires regular maintenance. Mock says dehumidifiers can help reduce stale air, while air purifiers are a great option when humidity isn’t the main issue.
What If the Smell Doesn’t Go Away?
If cleaning doesn’t eliminate the smell, consider bringing in a professional for a deep clean of every nook and cranny of the home. However, if the odor persists, Dills advises considering another possibility: “A persistent or intense smell could be an indication that a professional mold inspection is needed.”
In addition to being smelly, mold can also negatively impact your family’s health. So, it’s crucial to take remediation very seriously.
