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Fresh solutions to banish bad smells from your kitchen

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Fresh solutions to banish bad smells from your kitchen

Does an unpleasant smell linger in your kitchen? Maybe it hits you when you open the fridge or lift the lid on the trash can. No one wants that! These easy tips will help keep your kitchen fresh and free from bad odors—even in those smell-prone spots.

Fridge and freezer

Old leftovers hiding in the back of the fridge can cause quite a smell. Make it a habit to clean your fridge at least once a month, and don’t forget to regularly defrost and clean your freezer as well. This prevents odors and helps your appliances run smoothly.

Extra tip: Place a small container of baking soda in the back of the fridge to absorb unwanted smells.

Trash can

A kitchen trash can can quickly become a source of unpleasant odors. Here are some quick fixes to keep it fresh:

  • Coffee grounds: Let used coffee grounds dry out and sprinkle them in the trash can to help neutralize odors.
  • Laundry powder or baking soda: Sprinkle a little on the bottom of the can and repeat when it’s about half full.
  • Cat litter: Add two handfuls of cat litter to the bottom to absorb moisture and smells.
  • Straw or newspaper: Line the bottom of the trash can with straw or newspaper to catch moisture and keep bad odors at bay.

Sink drain

If a foul smell is coming from your sink drain, it’s not something you want around food prep areas. Luckily, there’s a simple fix:

  • Baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water: Pour half a cup of baking soda, a cup of vinegar, and half a liter of boiling water down the drain. Cover the sink for an hour to let the mixture do its job.

To prevent blockages and bad smells, avoid washing food scraps down the sink; use the trash can instead.

Oven

Does a bad smell hit you when you turn on the oven? Citrus fruits can work wonders:

  • Citrus peels: Place some orange or lemon peels in the oven and bake them at 170°C (about 340°F). The fresh citrus scent will help eliminate unpleasant odors.
  • Lemon for cleaning: After cooking meat or fish, place a bowl of water with lemon slices in the warm oven. The steam will loosen grime and take away any lingering smells.

Range hood

If an unpleasant odor fills the kitchen when you turn on the range hood, it’s probably time to clean or replace the filters. For best results, replace the filters every two months to keep smells under control and the hood working efficiently.

Quick tip

Freshen up your kitchen by opening a window to let in fresh air, especially after cooking. It’s a simple way to keep bad odors from hanging around.

The green bin: fresh solutions for a clean and odor-free compost bin

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The green bin: fresh solutions for a clean and odor-free compost bin

Your green bin, or compost bin, is best kept outside—it’s simply more hygienic. But even outdoors, it needs a bit of care, especially in warm weather. No one wants a smelly bin that attracts bugs! Don’t worry, though—these practical tips will help keep your compost bin fresh and free of unwanted smells and pests.

How to keep your compost bin clean and odor-free

Regular cleaning
The golden rule for a fresh compost bin? Regular cleaning. Rinse it with water and a little baking soda, but avoid harsh chemicals like bleach.

Find a shady spot
Place your compost bin in a cool, shaded area. This helps keep strong odors and pests at bay.

Newspaper lining
Put a layer of old newspaper at the bottom of the bin. It absorbs moisture and prevents leftover bits from sticking. No old newspaper? Straw works just as well.

Vinegar as a repellent
Mix some cleaning vinegar with water and pour a thin layer in the bottom of the bin. Leave the lid slightly open with a clothespin to let odors escape. This also keeps maggots and insects away.

Mothballs in a pantyhose
Hang a few mothballs in an old pantyhose in the bin. A tried-and-true trick to deter pests!

Lavender for a natural freshener
Maggots hate lavender. Add a few sprigs to the bin, or use a few drops of lavender essential oil. Not only will it keep bugs at bay, but it’ll also help tackle unpleasant odors.

Coffee grounds as an odor absorber
Save your coffee grounds! Sprinkle them in the bin to help absorb any bad smells. Bonus tip: coffee grounds work well in the fridge, too.

Laundry powder for extra freshness
Sprinkle a handful of laundry powder at the bottom of the bin to fight odors. You can repeat this halfway if the bin fills up.

What can you put in the compost bin?

Not sure what goes in the compost bin? Here’s a handy list:

Allowed: vegetable and fruit peels, small cooked food scraps, coffee grounds, bread crusts, tea leaves and bags, nut shells, paper towels, wilted flowers, grass clippings, weeds, leaves, shredded prunings, hedge trimmings, manure from small pets (not dog waste!).

Not allowed: plastic, animal waste, tree stumps, thick branches, metal, sand, meat or fish waste, oil, eggshells, mussel shells, biodegradable bags, kitty litter.

Practical tip

If odors are still an issue, try emptying the bin more frequently, especially in warm weather. This way, your green bin stays clean and fresh with minimal effort!

How to clean your compost bin: A simple, eco-friendly guide

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How to clean your compost bin: A simple, eco-friendly guide

Keeping your compost bin (also known as the green waste bin) clean might not be the most exciting chore, but it’s essential to prevent unpleasant odors and mold. The good news? It’s simple and can be done in an environmentally friendly way! Here’s how to do it effectively:

Step-by-Step: Clean your compost bin

  1. Rinse with Water and Baking Soda
    Start by rinsing out the bin thoroughly with water. Add a bit of baking soda for an extra clean, as it neutralizes odors naturally. Skip the bleach—it’s harsh on the environment and unnecessary.
  2. Absorb Moisture with Newspapers
    Pro tip: lay a few sheets of old newspaper on the bottom of the bin. This absorbs moisture and prevents waste from sticking, making your next cleaning session even easier.
  3. Repeat Regularly
    Clean your compost bin every few weeks, especially during warmer months when odors can build up faster.

Extra Tip

Got a fruit fly problem or other insects around your compost bin? Sprinkle a little salt in the bottom after cleaning, or add a splash of vinegar to the rinse water. This keeps pests away without using harmful chemicals.

Say goodbye to odors in your fridge and freezer!

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Say goodbye to odors in your fridge and freezer!

We’ve all been there – a forgotten leftover in the fridge starts giving off an unpleasant smell. Time for action! With these simple steps, you can keep your fridge and freezer fresh and odor-free.

Step 1: Empty and deep clean

For a truly fresh start, aim to give your fridge a deep clean once a month. Here’s how:

  1. Turn Off the Power: Unplug your fridge, remove everything inside, and place perishable items in a cooler to keep them fresh.
  2. Toss Expired Leftovers: Get rid of any expired or questionable food items to prevent odors from returning.
  3. Remove Shelves and Drawers: Take out all removable parts and wash them in warm, soapy water.
  4. Wipe Down the Interior: Use a cleaning solution like water with dish soap, baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate. This will gently scrub away any buildup and neutralize odors.
  5. Replace Everything: Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble the shelves and drawers, put your food back, and plug the fridge back in.

Naturally fresh fridge

Want to keep odors away for good? Here are some natural, affordable odor-fighting options:

  • Activated Charcoal: Place a small bowl of activated charcoal or regular charcoal in the fridge to absorb odors effectively.
  • Lemon Power: Put a small bowl of fresh lemon juice or a halved lemon in the fridge, replacing it regularly.
  • Other Odor Absorbers: Try a halved apple, a small bowl of ground coffee, or a dry tea bag to keep things fresh.

How to prevent odors in your freezer

Just like your fridge, your freezer needs regular cleaning to stay odor-free. And here’s a bonus: Did you know that even a thin layer of ice (just 2 mm) can increase energy use by 10%? Regular defrosting not only keeps odors away but also saves energy.

Here’s How to Deep Clean Your Freezer:

  1. Turn Off and Unplug: Disconnect the freezer and turn the temperature dial to 0.
  2. Empty the Contents: Move frozen items to the fridge or, if it’s winter, outside.
  3. Defrost the Freezer: Let it defrost naturally or speed things up by placing a pot of hot water inside. A hair dryer can also help but avoid any dripping on the dryer.
  4. Clean Thoroughly: Wash the interior and drawers with an all-purpose cleaner, baking soda, or sodium carbonate solution.
  5. Rinse and Dry: Wipe down everything with clean water, dry it thoroughly, and plug the freezer back in.
  6. Reload at -10°C: Wait until the freezer temperature drops below -10°C before refilling with food.

Extra Tip: Set the temperature as cold as possible a few hours before you start cleaning. This will give your frozen goods an extra “cold reserve” while you clean.

How to remove bad odors from your freezer

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How to remove bad odors from your freezer

Dealing with an unpleasant smell each time you open the freezer? Regular cleaning can keep odors at bay and make your freezer a more pleasant space for food storage. Here’s a quick guide to removing freezer odors effectively.

Step 1: Unplug the Freezer and Empty It Out

Before you start, always unplug the freezer for safety. Then, take everything out of the freezer. This is a great opportunity to toss out any expired or freezer-burned items.

Step 2: Clean the Freezer with a Powerful Mixture

Prepare a cleaning solution to tackle stubborn smells. Here are a few effective options:

  • All-purpose cleaner with oxygen bleach: Great for a deep clean and removing odors.
  • Baking soda solution: Mix baking soda with water to create a gentle scrub that neutralizes odors.
  • Soda crystals or Biotex: These laundry agents work well to remove lingering smells.
  • Water with sodium bicarbonate: Dissolve some sodium bicarbonate in water for a natural odor-neutralizing solution.

Use a sponge or cloth to wipe down all surfaces, making sure to get into every corner and crevice.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

After cleaning, rinse the freezer’s interior with clean water to remove any cleaner residue, then dry everything thoroughly with a cloth. Moisture can lead to more odor, so make sure the freezer is completely dry before plugging it back in.

Extra Tip: Keep It Fresh!

To maintain a fresh-smelling freezer, place an open box of baking soda or a small bowl of coffee grounds inside. Both will absorb any odors and keep your freezer smelling neutral.

How to keep your bathroom fresh and odor-free

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How to keep your bathroom fresh and odor-free

There’s nothing worse than leaving an unpleasant smell behind in the bathroom. Luckily, there are simple and effective ways to eliminate bad odors and keep things fresh. Here are some easy tricks to keep your bathroom smelling great!

Lemon or Lavender for a Constant Fresh Scent

Want a subtle, pleasant smell in the bathroom all the time? Dab a few drops of lemon or lavender essential oil on the inside of the toilet paper roll. Each time the roll turns, it releases a fresh scent, keeping unwanted smells at bay!

Dealing with Drain Odor in the Bathroom

A sewer-like smell in the bathroom is both unpleasant and tough to tackle. The solution? Install a trap or odor blocker between the drain and the pipe. This type of trap keeps a bit of water in the pipe, which blocks foul odors from wafting up from the drain.

Tip: Clean the drain and trap regularly to keep everything smelling fresh.

Banishing Bacteria After Using the Toilet

We all know to wash our hands after using the toilet, but did you know that antibacterial soap can give you extra protection? It’s designed to target bacteria more effectively. Just pick up an antibacterial soap at the supermarket for that extra layer of hygiene.

Pro Tip: Which Way to Hang the Toilet Paper?

The classic debate: should toilet paper hang over or under? According to a patent from 1891, the end of a toilet roll is meant to hang over the top. But, of course, it’s up to you!

Have a little one who loves to unroll the entire roll in one go? Here’s a clever trick: gently squeeze the cardboard roll to make it oval-shaped. This makes it harder to spin quickly, keeping your paper in place and preventing messes!

How to get rid of that sour milk smell in your car

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How to get rid of that sour milk smell in your car

Is your car filled with a sour smell after a milk spill? No worries! Here’s a step-by-step guide to banish that odor for good.

Step 1: Clean Up Any Milk Residue

Start by thoroughly cleaning up any milk residue. Make sure no liquid is left behind, as lingering milk is a breeding ground for bacteria, which is what causes that sour smell.

Step 2: Use an Enzyme-Based Odor Neutralizer

Spray an enzyme-based odor neutralizer on the affected area. These enzymes work to break down the odor-causing molecules.

Once applied, close the car doors to let the enzymes work their magic. Enzymatic cleaners are most effective between 5°C and 55°C.

Step 3: Maximize Air Circulation

After letting the neutralizer sit, start the car and set the ventilation system to maximum with recirculation mode on (without air conditioning or heat) for about 10 minutes. This helps spread the neutralizer through the air ducts. Repeat the process the next day if the smell lingers.

Step 4: Use Coffee Beans to Absorb the Odor

For a final touch, take a small pan and add a handful of coffee beans. Heat the beans until they start to smoke slightly, then carefully place the pan in your car and leave it overnight. The coffee will absorb any remaining odor and leave a pleasant, mild scent.

By morning, your car should be free of that unpleasant sour milk smell!

Tip: Act quickly after spills to prevent odors from setting in, and use the coffee trick for other tough odors too!

How to get rid of bad odors in your car

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How to get rid of bad odors in your car

We’ve all been there: you open the car door and get hit with a nasty smell. Whether it’s from spilled drinks, smoke, or just a musty buildup, a bad odor makes any car feel less inviting. Here’s a step-by-step guide to banishing those smells for good.

Step 1: Clear Out the Source of the Smell

Start with a deep clean. Remove any trash, check for damp spots, and clean the upholstery. Odors tend to stick when molecules settle into the fabric, so a good clean is key.

Step 2: Use Enzymes for Deep Odor Removal

For stubborn smells, enzymes are the trick. They break down the smell-causing molecules, removing the problem at the source. You can find enzyme cleaners in laundry products like Biotex or buy pure enzyme products at outdoor shops.

  1. Prepare an enzyme solution by following the instructions on your product.
  2. Spray the car interior with the enzyme solution, focusing on the seats, carpets, and any fabric areas.
  3. Close all windows and doors and turn on the ventilation at full blast with the setting on “recirculate.” Turn off the heating. This helps the enzyme solution circulate throughout the car.
  4. Let it sit for 10 minutes before opening the doors to air out the car.

Pro Tip: If the smell is especially strong, repeat the process until the odor is completely gone.

Step 3: Keep It Fresh Naturally

Once the odor is gone, use natural deodorizers to maintain a fresh scent:

  • Baking soda: Sprinkle some on the floor mats and vacuum it up after a few hours to absorb any lingering odors.
  • Coffee beans or charcoal: Put a small bag of coffee beans or charcoal under the seat to naturally absorb odors over time.

With these steps, you’ll have your car smelling fresh in no time—without relying on strong chemical sprays.

A simple trick to keep your ashtray smelling fresh

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A simple trick to keep your ashtray smelling fresh

Is that lingering ashtray smell taking over your space, even hours after the last smoke? No worries! Whether you smoke yourself or occasionally have smokers over, there’s an easy way to keep that stale odor under control.

The Quick Fix for a Fresher-Smelling Ashtray: Sand and Baking Soda

Why does this work? A little bit of sand mixed with baking soda works wonders. This natural combo helps cigarettes extinguish faster and absorbs those strong smells at the same time.

Here’s what to do:

  1. Fill the ashtray halfway with sand. The sand cools the cigarette quickly, helping it go out faster and reducing smoke.
  2. Sprinkle a little baking soda on top. Baking soda neutralizes odors and keeps that ashtray smell from spreading.

Not only does this reduce the smell, but it also prevents ash from sticking to your fingers when you put out a cigarette. It’s an easy fix that’s nicer for smokers and keeps your place smelling fresher for everyone!

Extra Tips to Keep the Air Fresh

  • Empty and Clean Regularly: Empty the ashtray often and wash it with soapy water and a splash of vinegar to clear any lingering smells.
  • Ventilate the Room: Open a window or use a fan to help keep the air fresh.

With this simple tip, your home stays fresher, and that ashtray smell becomes a thing of the past. It’s a win-win for smokers and non-smokers alike!

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