Compared to cleaning soot and burned furnishings, it can be more difficult to remove the smell of smoke. Although smoke has a pungent smell, it can be difficult to know which parts of the home to clean for a complete smoke odor removal.
One of the hardest places to clean is hard to reach areas and crevices where smoke have seeped through. Smoke will naturally be removed as time goes by through aeration. However, no homeowner will want the smoke of smell to linger for so long especially if it triggers lung disorders. A process that professional cleaners employ for this type of situation is usually using ozone generators. These machines also produce gas that removes the smell of smoke. Certain safety measures have to be observed however in this process.
Fabrics can be next on the list of hard to clean furnishings since these retain the smell of smoke even though they were stored or were located beyond the room where fire happened. At times, a homeowner will need to wash all clothes; used or unused. Curtains that have been hanging in all rooms during the fire will also need to be removed. After washing, it is best to store and seal fabrics in large plastics when the cleanup process has not been finishes yet so they do not get contaminated with smoke again.
Sofas, rugs and carpets also belong to the fabric categories, however unlike smaller pieces; these are not easy. Sofas have foam beneath so they cannot be completely washed while carpets may be too large to remove and wash. One thing a homeowner can do however is to sprinkle baking soda on these fabric items and leaving it to soak overnight. A good vacuum the next day will remove not only baking soda but the smell of smoke as well. Another option is to have professional cleaners remove the pungent smoke smell.
After cleaning and washing all furniture and furnishings inside the home, a homeowner can also use air fresheners to ensure a complete smoke odor removal. Check cleaning products however, so they do not work only to mask the smell of smoke. Natural deodorizers like charcoal, vinegar or orange peels may also be used.