I’ve never encountered this before

Moving into a new place is a big deal! It’s exciting to think about all the fresh starts and new memories you’ll make. But sometimes, things aren’t perfect right away. Imagine finding out that the previous owner, an elderly woman, passed away in the house. That can be a little unsettling, and it might even leave behind an unpleasant smell. This article is here to help you understand what’s going on and give you some practical ways to get rid of the odor, so you can truly enjoy your new home.

Figuring Out Where the Smell is Coming From

The first thing to do is play detective and figure out what’s causing the smell. Sometimes, after someone passes away, especially if it wasn’t discovered right away, there can be lingering scents from natural processes. Also, if the house wasn’t cleaned really well afterward, there might be smells left behind from bodily fluids or other things. Knowing the reason for the smell is super important for choosing the best way to get rid of it.

First Steps: Fresh Air and Getting Rid of Smelly Stuff

The easiest thing to do first is to air out the house. Open all the windows and doors to let fresh air flow through. This will help get rid of some of the smell naturally. Next, if you can, take out anything that might have soaked up the smell, like carpets, curtains, or furniture. These things can be cleaned really well, or you might even need to replace them.

Deep Cleaning for Smells That Won’t Go Away

If the smell is still there, you’ll need to do some serious cleaning. Clean everything, including the walls, floors, and ceilings, with a mix of water and a strong cleaner that kills germs. Pay close attention to the spots where the smell is strongest. If you have carpets or furniture that can be steam cleaned, that can also help get rid of smells trapped inside. You could also think about using a machine that makes ozone. Ozone can change the smell at a very basic level.

Natural Ways to Make Things Smell Better

If you prefer to use natural things, there are a few options. Baking soda is great at soaking up smells. You can sprinkle it on carpets and furniture, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it up. White vinegar is another good natural deodorizer. You can use it to wipe down surfaces or put bowls of it around the house to absorb smells. Smelly oils, like lavender or tea tree oil, can also be used in a diffuser to make the house smell nicer.

Store-Bought Products for Getting Rid of Smells

There are lots of products you can buy that are made just for getting rid of smells. Cleaners with enzymes are really good for smells from organic things, because they break down the stuff that’s causing the smell. Air purifiers with special filters can also help get rid of smells in the air. Make sure you read the directions on any product you buy to make sure you use it safely and correctly.

When to Ask for Help from Professionals

If you’ve tried everything and the smell is still there, it’s a good idea to call in professionals. There are companies that specialize in getting rid of tough smells. They have special cleaning products and equipment that regular people don’t have. They can figure out what’s going on and come up with a plan to get rid of the smell completely.

Keeping Smells Away in the Future

To keep smells from coming back, make sure you clean regularly and keep your house well ventilated. You might want to use air purifiers or dehumidifiers to keep the air fresh and prevent mold or mildew, which can also cause bad smells. Check your house regularly for any signs of water or leaks, because these can also lead to smell problems.

Making Your New House Feel Like Home

Dealing with a bad smell in your new house can be tough, but you can definitely get rid of it if you do the right things. By figuring out what’s causing the smell and using a combination of cleaning, natural remedies, and store-bought products, you can make your house smell fresh and welcoming. And remember, if you need help, there are professionals who can take care of it for you. With a little effort, your new house will soon feel like home.