Kathy’s Home & Garden Tips – Natural Odor Fixes
Even a very clean home can have odor problems. Check out these natural ways to get rid of odors and leave your house smelling wonderful.
A smelly dishwasher is often a result of mold and mildew. Pour three cups of white vinegar in the bottom of the machine. Let sit for several hours then run a full cycle. If you don’t plan on using the dishwasher for a couple of days, sprinkle a few tablespoons of baking soda in the bottom.
For garbage disposals, vinegar works well here too. First, pour one-half cup of baking soda down the drain. Follow that with one cup vinegar, slightly warmed in the microwave. It will foam up, that’s normal. Leave for 15-20 minutes. Stopper the sink and fill to the top with cold water. Pull the plug and the cold water will rinse out the old food that caused your odor problems.
To clean microwaves, citrus is your best bet. Quarter 2-3 lemons, oranges or limes. Place in a wide glass bowl with a lot of surface area. Fill with water and heat in the microwave till the water boils. Let sit for an additional 15 minutes. Wipe out the microwave with paper towel, leave the door open, and air dry completely.
Citrus also works well in the refrigerator. Save squeezed out citrus, place in a bowl. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of salt on top. Place in the bottom rear of the fridge. Baking soda works too but take it out of the box and place in a wide shallow bowl. Maximum surface area is more effective. Simmer cut citrus on the stove for an all over fresh scent.
Trash cans can get smelly quickly. Emptying more frequently will take care of most problems but if you are throwing out something especially odorous, take a paper towel and add a few drops of vanilla extract. Lay on top of the garbage; that should take care of the smell till you can take it out.
Essential oils are wonderful for many odor problems. Put a few drops of citrus oil on the furnace filter. Enjoy the fruity smell every time the furnace goes on. This will last for several days. Use lavender oil in the bedroom, as it has calming properties. Put a few drops on your pillows and throw them in the dryer on fluff.
Bathroom sinks and tub drains can become odorous from soap residue that mixes with oils from our skin and hair. Hydrogen peroxide works best here. Try to find the highest concentration you can, usually available at the drug store. Pour ½ cup down the drain and let sit for as long as you can. It’s safe and will not harm pipes.
If you have a closed-up space, like a spare room or closet, coffee is the trick here. Place fresh coffee in a shallow bowl and place it in the room. Coffee gives off a nice aroma and the grounds absorb odors like baking soda does.
KATHY WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO
