Although spring symbolizes freshness, it is precisely then that many people notice that their home no longer smells right, and experts have explained why unpleasant odors appear more often.
One of the best things about spring, along with the abundance of sunlight, is the ability to open the windows without fear of the cold. In these cases, you may notice an unpleasant odor starting to spread throughout your home.
An expert explained to Real Simple what’s behind these unpleasant smells and how you can keep your home fresh.
“Odors are primarily affected by heat and humidity. During the winter, poor air circulation causes unpleasant odors from hardwood floors, walls, carpets, furniture, and heating and ventilation systems to linger in the space,” says cleaning expert Ed Quinlan.
Soft surfaces are a particular problem. Carpets and other fabrics trap particles in their fibers and provide a large surface area where odors can easily collect. In addition, pet hair, urine, and dirt brought in from outside can promote the growth of bacteria and intensify unpleasant odors. Although these odors may go unnoticed during the winter, with the arrival of warmer days and more frequent airing, they become more pronounced.
This is especially true in homes with dark, damp areas, such as basements or hard-to-reach areas under floors, where conditions are conducive to mold growth. To prevent these odors from building up, it’s recommended to vacuum at least twice a week with a vacuum cleaner with a microfilter.
“Replace the bag when it’s no more than two-thirds full to maintain optimal suction power,” advises Quinlan.
Also, depending on how much your home gets used, it’s recommended to have your carpets professionally cleaned once a year. Promptly removing pet accidents, spills, and other messes will prevent odors from penetrating soft surfaces.
Regardless of the season, you can also apply the German method of airing out a room by opening the windows briefly but intensively. The idea is to open the windows wide once or twice a day for five to ten minutes to quickly circulate fresh air and improve the air quality in the room.
“It’s a great way to get rid of polluted air and keep it fresh all year round,” says Quinlan.
When windows are closed for weeks or months, the air in a room doesn’t circulate enough, so odors can become stale.
Air purifiers can help improve indoor air quality and contribute to a fresher smell in the long run. Quinlan emphasizes that regular home maintenance is key to welcoming spring without unpleasant, stale odors./BuzPost/
