How to Lessen Stain Smell on Wood

Wood is a porous material that will absorb stains as well as their associated odors. This generally happens if the wood is exposed to the same smell for a long period of time or if the staining material has a very strong smell. Most smells will eventually dissipate naturally, but you can accelerate the process by using cleaning solutions. Completely removing the smell involves cleaning the staining material and then using solutions that will absorb and neutralize odors in the wood.

Liquid dish soap
Sponge
White vinegar
Baking soda
Dust pan
Broom

Instructions

- 1
  Add 2 tbsp. liquid dish soap to 1 gallon warm water. Mix until the water is sudsy.
- 2
  Dip a sponge in the solution and wring it out so that it is slightly damp.
- 3
  Scrub the wood with the soapy water to clean it completely. Rinse the sponge often and use as much soapy water as necessary to clean the floor.
- 4
  Rinse the wood with clear water to remove the soap residue and let it dry completely.
- 5
  Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar. White vinegar is completely natural and non-toxic and it will neutralize odors.
- 6
  Mist the wood with white vinegar and let it dry completely. Don't soak the wood as this could damage it. Repeat the process several times until the smell is gone.
- 7
  Sprinkle an even layer of baking soda over the wood and let it sit for several hours. The baking soda is completely natural and it will help absorb odors.
- 8
  Sweep the baking soda up and throw it away. Repeat the baking soda process if the smell is still apparent.

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