Permanently Eradicating Cigarette Smell in Your New Home
The unwanted presence of cigarette smell in your new home can be a persistent and frustrating issue. Whether you're moving into a space that has been previous lived in by a smoker or dealing with a renovation challenge, this guide will provide you with effective solutions to permanently get rid of cigarette odor.
Introduction to the Problem
One of the more unconventional solutions my aunt shared with me was burning down the house and rebuilding it from scratch – a drastic measure that she resorted to when her husband, who tragically passed away from lung cancer, left behind a lingering cigarette smell. While this method does not align with modern ethical standards or practical considerations, it highlights the severity and stubborn nature of cigarette smoke residue.
Effective Methods to Remove Cigarette Smell
Thankfully, there are practical methods available to tackle this problem without resorting to extreme measures. Here are some of the most effective approaches:
1. Ozone Generator
Insurance companies often use ozone generators after small house fires to eliminate smoke smell. Ozone generators work by producing ozone, which interacts with odors and contaminants in the air, breaking them down into harmless substances. For best results, remove all non-metallic items from the room and ensure the generator is run under controlled conditions. This method is particularly effective for spaces where the smoke has permeated the walls and porous materials.
2. Cleaning Walls with Vinegar and Sugar Soap
For thorough cleaning of walls, clean them with a mixture of white vinegar and warm water. Allow the walls to dry completely. For carpets and furniture, consider using a product like Febreeze. For a more thorough clean, you can also use sugar soap, which is highly effective at washing away nicotine deposits. It is important to use strong agents recommended by hardware stores, as they can break down the nicotine that has permeated the walls. Two applications may be necessary, depending on the extent of the odor.
3. Professional Cleaning and Renovation
For deep cleaning and renovation, start by removing all carpeting, curtains, drapes, and cloth-covered furniture. Painters often recommend stripping wallpaper and applying a fresh coat of paint, which can significantly reduce lingering odors. It's important to thoroughly clean painted, lacquered, and varnished walls and ceilings with sugar soap before repainting. Additionally, professional cleaning of carpets and hard floors is crucial. After cleaning, you may need to replace or refinish hardwood floors if the odor persists.
4. Time and Natural Aeration
While immediate measures are essential, it's also important to consider time and natural aeration. The smell of tobacco will naturally fade over time. Ensure that your home is well-ventilated, open windows regularly, and use air purifiers to help the process. Additionally, ongoing efforts in maintaining a smoke-free environment can prevent further odor buildup.
Real-Life Success Story
A personal and relatable example illustrates the effectiveness of these methods. My son and his wife faced this issue when they purchased a new home. They began by removing all carpeting to uncover beautiful hardwood floors. They then used a strong cleaning agent recommended by a hardware store to wash the walls, a process that required changing the water frequently due to the heavy amount of smoke and nicotine residue. After painting the walls and refinishing the hardwood floors, they were pleased to find that no lingering smoke odor remained in their home.
Conclusion
While cigarette smell can be a persistent problem in a new home, a combination of professional cleaning, renovation, and time can effectively eradicate it. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a fresh and healthy living space without resorting to extreme measures like burning down the house. Maintain a smoke-free environment for the future to prevent odor buildup and keep your home smelling fresh and inviting.