The short answer
Start with Fresh Air
Open every window and exterior door to create a cross breeze. Use box fans placed in windows to push stale air out and pull fresh air in. In a semi-arid climate with cold winters and hot dry summers, you can air out the house during mild weather windows.
Run exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms to help move air. If you have a whole-house fan or attic fan, turn it on. The goal is to reduce the concentration of smoke particles in the air before you start cleaning surfaces.
Wash Fabrics and Soft Goods
Curtains, upholstery, bedding, and clothing absorb smoke odor quickly. Wash everything you can in a washing machine using hot water and a heavy-duty detergent. Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to help neutralize odors.
For items that cannot be washed, like large drapes or upholstered furniture, sprinkle baking soda on the surface, let it sit for several hours, then vacuum with a HEPA-filter vacuum. You may need to repeat this process a few times for stubborn smells.
- Wash all removable fabric items
- Use vinegar in the rinse cycle
- Sprinkle baking soda on upholstery
- Vacuum with a HEPA filter
- Air out pillows and cushions outside
Wipe Down Hard Surfaces
Smoke residue settles on walls, ceilings, and floors. Wipe these surfaces with a solution of warm water and a mild degreaser. Start from the top and work your way down so you do not re-deposit residue on already cleaned areas.
Do not forget less obvious spots like window frames, door trim, and light fixtures. Clean or replace HVAC filters, as they can hold smoke particles and recirculate the odor. If the residue is heavy, you may need to wash with a TSP substitute.
- Wipe walls and ceilings from top down
- Clean window frames and trim
- Replace HVAC filters
- Use a degreaser for oily residue
- Wash light fixtures and covers
Neutralize Odors at the Source
Baking soda and activated charcoal can absorb odors in small spaces. Place open boxes of baking soda in each room, or use charcoal bags designed for odor removal. Leave them for several days, then replace as needed.
For persistent smells, consider using an ozone generator or thermal fogging. These methods are right for the pros, because they require safety precautions. The pros can also treat ductwork and insulation where smoke odor hides.
When to Call in the Pros
If the smoke smell remains after your cleaning efforts, the odor may be embedded in drywall, insulation, or framing. The pros have commercial-grade equipment and techniques to remove deep-set odors. They can also handle content pack-out services to clean your belongings off-site.
Before you spend time on extensive cleaning, check with your insurance company about coverage for smoke damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Ask a qualified attorney if you have questions about your policy.
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Call (208) 729-2441 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (208) 729-2441Frequently asked questions
Will smoke smell ever go away on its own?
It can fade over time, but it usually will not disappear completely. Smoke particles cling to surfaces and materials. Without active cleaning, the odor can linger for months. You need to wash, wipe, and ventilate to remove it.
Can I use vinegar to remove smoke smell?
Yes, white vinegar is a natural odor neutralizer. Add it to laundry rinse cycles or mix it with water for wiping hard surfaces. The vinegar smell fades as it dries, taking smoke odors with it. Test on a small area first.
How long does it take to get smoke smell out?
It depends on how much smoke and what materials are affected. Light odors may clear in a few days with washing and airing. Deep-set odors can take weeks. For severe cases, the pros may need to seal or replace affected materials.