Summer Sale

10
Days
13
Hours
31
Minutes
38
Seconds

Limited Summer Stock Event

Solutions for Smells That Linger in Furniture

How to Eliminate Bad Odors at Home: Solutions for Smells That Linger in Furniture

There’s nothing more frustrating than walking into your home and being met with a smell that just won’t go away. Whether it's pet odors, lingering food smells, smoke, or a musty scent that seems to be absorbed into your upholstery, bad odors can turn even the most beautifully decorated space into an uncomfortable environment. Fortunately, there are practical, effective ways to deal with these issues starting with your furniture.

1. Locate the Source First

Before you try to eliminate odors, it's important to figure out where they’re coming from. A smell might be coming from deep within a sofa cushion, behind a TV stand, or even from underneath a rug. Pets, spilled drinks, cooking fumes, or cigarette smoke are common culprits. Once you pinpoint the source, you can treat it properly rather than just covering it up.

2. Ventilation: The Most Natural Solution

Fresh air is your best friend. Open up windows and doors regularly, especially in rooms where you have upholstered furniture. Letting air circulate helps reduce trapped odors in fabrics, carpets, and cushions. If possible, take removable cushions outdoors and let them breathe in the sun—the UV rays can also help kill odor-causing bacteria.

3. Use Baking Soda to Absorb Odors

Baking soda is a gentle yet powerful odor neutralizer. Simply sprinkle a generous amount over your sofa, armchair, or even mattress, and let it sit for a few hours. Then vacuum it off thoroughly. It’s safe for most fabrics and works wonders on smells caused by moisture or food spills.

4. Try a Vinegar-Based Fabric Spray

White vinegar is another natural deodorizer that helps break down odor molecules instead of just masking them. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and lightly mist your furniture. Let it air dry. The initial vinegar scent will fade quickly—taking bad odors with it.

5. Steam Clean or Deep Clean

For tougher, embedded odors—especially in older furniture—consider using a steam cleaner or hiring a professional upholstery cleaner. Steam cleaning penetrates fabric layers and can remove years of trapped bacteria, moisture, and smells.

Monroe Accent Chair styled in a cozy reading nook with a throw blanket and lamp.

6. Choose Enzyme-Based Cleaners for Pet Odors

If you're a pet owner, enzyme-based cleaners are your go-to. They break down the proteins in pet urine and dander that traditional cleaners can't fully eliminate. Use them on any furniture your pets frequently lounge on.

7. Opt for Washable or Odor-Resistant Furniture

If persistent odors are a concern, consider choosing furniture with removable, washable covers. Many modern furniture pieces, like those offered by Bellona, are designed with easy-care fabrics that resist absorbing odors and are simple to maintain. Options with built-in storage can also help reduce clutter and mustiness in small spaces.

8. Prevent Future Odors with Regular Maintenance

Don't wait for smells to build up. Vacuum your furniture regularly, flip and air out cushions, and use fabric-safe fresheners weekly. You can also place charcoal bags or baking soda sachets inside furniture drawers or storage ottomans to keep them fresh over time.

9. Add Subtle Scent Enhancers

Once odors are gone, maintain a fresh-smelling home with essential oil diffusers or gentle room sprays. Lavender, eucalyptus, and citrus oils are great for creating a clean, inviting atmosphere. Just be cautious not to use overpowering scents—they should enhance, not mask.

A Fresh-Smelling Home Starts with Smart Furniture Choices

Your home should feel like a cozy, fresh sanctuary. And that starts with furniture that supports both your style and lifestyle. Bellona offers a variety of functional, fabric-conscious pieces that are made to withstand real-life moments—whether it's family movie night, dinner parties, or accidental spills.

By choosing the right furniture and using simple, effective cleaning habits, you can say goodbye to stubborn odors and hello to a home that smells as lovely as it looks.

 

Additional Resources

Bellona Top Sellers: Transform Your Home with the Piero Living Room Set

Bellona Living Room Sets: A Comprehensive Guide

Designed for Living: The Beauty and Benefits of Bellona Sectionals

Previous post
Next post
Back to Bellona Blog
How to Create a Minimalist Home: Warmth and Style with Less

How to Create a Minimalist Home: Warmth and Style with Less

By Bellona USA

Discover how to design a minimalist home that feels warm and welcoming not empty. From space-saving furniture to cozy textures and calming colors, explore simple yet powerful tips for turning...

Read more
Decorating with Houseplants: Which Plants Pair Well with Which Furniture?

Decorating with Houseplants: Which Plants Pair Well with Which Furniture?

By Bellona USA

Houseplants add beauty and life to any room, but pairing the right plant with the right furniture can elevate your decor. Whether you're looking for a minimalist touch or a...

Read more
Choosing the Right Sofa for Small Living Rooms: How to Make Your Space Feel Bigger

Choosing the Right Sofa for Small Living Rooms: How to Make Your Space Feel Bigger

By Bellona USA

Designing for small spaces? Discover how Bellona’s smart sofas help you maximize comfort, style, and functionality. From convertible sectionals to compact designs, this guide shows how to make your living...

Read more