How to Neutralize a Burnt Smell in the Home

Burnt smells, whether from cooking mishaps or minor fires, can linger inside the home for hours or even days after the fact. The scorched odor permeates carpeting and walls, so even after the offending items are removed the smell may remain. Systematically cleaning all the surfaces exposed to the burnt smell, while absorbing as much of the offending odor from the air as possible, neutralizes it and helps your home smell fresh again.

Glass bowls
White vinegar
Mild detergent
Baking soda

Instructions

- 1
  Open windows or doors to provide ventilation and air circulation. If possible, open a window on either side of the room to provide cross ventilation.
- 2
  Pour a ½ cup of white vinegar into several glass bowls. Place a bowl of vinegar in each corner of the room. The vinegar absorbs the burnt smell. Replace the vinegar every two days until the odor is gone.
- 3
  Wash the walls to remove lingering odor if the burnt smell is severe and not fading. Use a mild detergent and water. Use the same detergent solution to clean the interior of the oven or microwave if the burnt odor originates from these appliances.
- 4
  Sprinkle baking soda on carpeted areas in the affected room. Leave the baking soda in place for at least one hour, but preferably overnight, then vacuum it up. The baking soda absorbs burnt smell residue in the carpet.

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