Cigarette smoke is one of the most difficult odours to remove from furniture, especially if it has lingered for a long time. It can be hard to feel comfortable in a room with a smoky smell, but the good news is that there are various methods to try if you are worried about how to get cigarette smell out of furniture. Whether looking for natural home remedies or commercial products, this guide will cover all the steps to free your furniture from that cigarette odour.
What Causes Cigarette Smell on Furniture?
The cigarette smoke odour is caused by tiny particles of tar and nicotine deposited on furniture. The tar and nicotine cling to the furniture’s material and are difficult to remove without proper cleaning methods. Any porous materials such as wood, fabric, and upholstery trap the smoke further onto the surface.
The smell of smoking can linger for a long time, even after the smoker has left the room. This is because the particles of tar and nicotine are so small that they can remain in the air for a long time. Additionally, the particles can become embedded in the wood fibres, making it difficult to remove the smell completely.
Using Natural Home Remedies to Get Rid of Cigarette Smell
Home remedies are the most natural way to get the smoking smell out of furniture. The best way to do this is by boiling vinegar in a pot and adding a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender or lemon, to the mixture. Boil the mixture for 15-20 minutes, then turn off the stove. Let the mixture cool down, and then use a damp cloth to apply it to the affected area. How to get cigarette smell out of furniture? Alternatively, baking soda can be sprinkled on upholstery or carpets and let stand for a few hours before vacuuming up. Both vinegar and baking soda are effective at eliminating odours.
Using Commercial Products to Get Rid of Cigarette Smell
If natural home remedies do not work, plenty of commercial products can be used to eliminate cigarette smells. Odour-eliminating sprays such as Febreze, Ozium and Lysol can be used on upholstered furniture. Carpet and fabric deodorizers can also be used on carpets and upholstery. Plant-based products, such as Nature Clean, can be used for odour removal if you prefer chemical-free solutions.
Tips for Preventing Cigarette Smell from Returning
Once you have successfully removed the smoking smell from your furniture. You must take preventative measures to ensure the smell does not return. Start by airing out the area with open windows or air purifiers; this will help push out any lingering smoke particles. Regularly vacuum and dust your chairs or tables to remove any trapped particles. Be sure to also wash drapery and upholstery regularly with an appropriate cleaner.
DIY Cleaning Solutions for Removing Smoking Smell
Another great way to get rid of stubborn odours is to create your DIY cleaning solutions. For example, you can make an all-purpose cleaner by combining ¼ cup of white vinegar, one teaspoon of Borax, and 2 cups of warm water in a spray bottle. Shake well before use. You can also make a paste from baking soda and warm water, which can be rubbed onto furniture for deeper cleaning.
Common Household Items for Getting Rid of Cigarette Odors
In addition to commercial products and home remedies, several common household items can be used to eliminate smoking smell. Coffee grounds and activated charcoal are great solutions as they help absorb odour particles in the air. Odour-absorbing packs such as those found in shoes can also be placed in furniture drawers. You can also place them behind cabinets to help trap the scent of smoke.