Even the cleanest homes can end up with some not-so-clean smells, so knowing how to get to the bottom of the mess is a necessity. The following tips will not only help to remove some common offensive smells, but they do is a natural way that's safe for you and your family.
1. Dog and Cat Urine
After you have blotted up the urine, saturate the spot with a mixture of three parts water to one part white vinegar. Blot the vinegar then let it air dry. Sprinkle the area with baking soda, then saturate it with water mixed with one drop of dish detergent. Work the mixture into the stain, especially if it is carpet, then allow it to air dry. Finally, vacuum up the left over baking soda.
2. Carpet Odors
A general formula to remove all kinds of odors from carpeting is 1/2 cup of baking soda, 1/2 cup of corn starch and several drops of essential oil (for fragrance). Sprinkle the mixture on your carpet, let it sit overnight, then vacuum it up the next day.
3. Cigarette Smoke
Set out bowls of ground coffee and let them site for a couple of days. The grounds will help to absorb the smell. White vinegar also works for this purpose.
4. Mildew and Mold
To get rid of musty smells and mildew, such as in the basement or in your bathroom, mix one part 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with two parts water, put in a spray bottle and spray the area (let it sit for an hour or more before rinsing).
5. Skunk Spray
If threatened, a skunk may spray a smelly sulfur compound called N- bulymercaptan, which is very hard to get rid of.
If you or a pet is sprayed by a skunk, you should wash immediately with carbolic soap and water, tomato juice or vinegar. You can also try this homemade skunk-spray remover:
· 1 quart 3% peroxide
· 1/4 cup baking soda
· 1 tablespoon liquid hand soap
· Mix ingredients together
· Wash area (avoiding eyes, ears and mouth) and let soak for five minutes
· Rinse well
(source: http://www.sixwise.com/Newsletters/2008/July/2/How-to-Get-Rid-of-Five-Bad-Smells-Including-Cat-Ur.htm)
