How to Keep the Appliances in Proper Condition around Children?

There is no doubt that appliances have reduced human efforts. These appliances help in cleaning the mess, saves your time, no matter whether it is a kitchen appliance or bathroom appliance or anything else. And, it’s a very common thing that whenever you choose an appliance, you do some research work, whether it is a reliable one or not etc. 

But, often, we forget to maintain them. After all, they are just machines, and years later, some parts might not work due to wear and tear. And, if you have children or pets, then appliances maintenance is a must. 

Any accident can happen, and that can take a very serious turn. It might also be possible that children playfully damage the appliances. And, once your appliance stops working, it really becomes very difficult to survive. 

Over here, we will discuss some of the ways to help the appliances run smoothly with children in the house. 

Ways to Keep the Appliances running Efficiently and Effectively

Only proper maintenance and regular care can make your appliances work smoothly. And, even if your children have done any damage, you can easily rectify it, replace the parts, and again your appliance will be back to normal. According to the top Electrician in Dubai, there are certain rules, and you need to follow them as discussed below. 

1.   Cleaning the Filter of the AC

Air conditioner becomes our top priority during summer as it is quite unbearable to tolerate the heat of the sun. But, what about the other seasons? As it is not used that much, it does not mean that it is not important or you will pay less attention to it. You need to clean the AC for proper functioning. Due to the accumulation of dirt and dust, the filter often stops working, leading to the AC’s malfunctioning. 

It needs regular cleaning, or if it is old enough, then you have to change the filters. You can also go through the manual for any extra information. The filter is used for collecting the warm air and releasing it outside. Thus, it is very important to keep it in proper condition so that your AC runs efficiently. You can also seek help from Handyman services in Dubai.

2.   Don’t Overload Appliances

Every machine does have its limits. Overloading won’t help you to do the work faster; rather, it will damage the appliance. And, for every appliance, a certain limit has been recommended; filling too much load will waste energy, and even the appliance might work abnormally. And, washing machines have a certain limit to fill clothes. Often the users might think that overfilling will save time. But, actually, it is not like that. This will damage your appliance, and your work will increase rather than decreasing.

3.   Replace Damaged Cord

It is very important to replace the damaged cords as soon as possible. It might be possible that your kids have damaged the cord playfully. This damaged cord, if not replaced, can also cause an accident that can turn out to be very serious. So, to prevent any kind of accident, make sure you change the cord. And, to get noticed about this thing, you need to check your appliance more often. After all, you can’t take any risk when you know that you have kids in your house. 

4.   Adult Assistance is a must

Make sure you always guide your children whenever they are using any appliances. It might be possible that they made a mistake while using the appliance and injured themselves as well as damage the appliance. These mistakes can lead to fire and bad injuries. For example, it is better if you guide them when they are using the kitchen appliances. 

Obviously, you can put restrictions on everything, but it’s better to guide them and help them realise to differentiate between right and wrong. You also need to make sure that the appliance they are using must be working properly. You can first take a trial with the appliance and let your kids use it. But, if you maintain the appliance on a regular basis, then you won’t be that stressed. 

5.   Remove the Limescale from the Appliances

Often it has been observed that people who are living in hard water areas are more prone to witness limescale. And, particularly for those appliances that heat water like washing machines, steam cleaners etc. This limescale will reduce the efficiency, and your appliance might even stop working. 

Thus, you need to remove the limescale. And, if kids by mistake use the limescale, then it might have a bad impact on their health. So, we recommend you clean it as soon as you observe this. This will make sure that your appliance is in the right condition and your children are also safe.

6.   Don’t Overcharge the Appliance

Overcharging will not help you rather make things worse. People have this misconception that overcharging the appliance makes it work longer. But, it is a completely false statement. If your appliance has rechargeable batteries, you must take it off once the charge is completed. If you overcharge, then it might lead to losing the ability to hold a charge any longer. 

People often make these mistakes, but it’s important that you make yourself aware of the right facts. For example, if your child has a phone, tell them not to overcharge it. As it might affect the battery and can lead to damaging the phone. Thus, all your important files and documents will be lost. 

7.   Turn Off the Appliance during the Night

In many cases, it has been seen that people turn on appliances during the night. This won’t help you to save electric bills. Some appliances like the refrigerator need to be turned on if food is stored. The appliance can also lead to safety issues if it is turned on during the night. The appliance can malfunction and can even catch fire — for example, the dishwasher. 

This will damage the appliance and it can even be harmful to children. If by mistake, they touch the wrong part, then they can get electric shock due to the appliance being On. You must have heard that prevention is better than cure. In such cases, maintaining the appliance and guiding your children can work as preventions. 

Conclusion 

So, this was all about some rules that you must follow to make sure that your appliance is running smoothly. This won’t just help you maintain the appliance but will make sure that your kid is safe. In most cases, it has been seen that kids are responsible for the malfunctioning of appliances. Now, you can’t really stop your kids, but you can guide them. These rules will be really helpful. 

Guest Contributor: Shruti Panjabi

Effective Ways to Secure Your Backyard

Due to the pandemic, many of us have fallen back in love with your backyards, since they were the only escape from the house. But if you take a good look at your beloved outdoor space, does it look secure to you? Is it protected from burglars and other intruders? Does it offer privacy that you crave? If one of these deserves a no as an answer, you need to boost security in your backyard. Luckily, that can be done quickly and effectively with these tips.

Light it up

First things first, make sure to illuminate your space properly, since burglars don’t like well-lit spaces. The more light you have, the easier you will catch the intruder, and everyone knows that. Get moderate-intensity floodlights with motion sensors to ensure proper security. When the sensors detect motion, they turn on and stay on for a few seconds (you can program your lights how you like it) and shut off unless they continue to detect movements. Aim your sensors at all doors, deck, patio and stairway and place them from 6 to 10 feet above the ground.

Stock up on chains and padlocks

Many burglars are only looking for a quick and easy loot from your backyard like ladders, power tools, bikes and such—they are not even interested in getting inside your house. If you often keep these things in your backyard in the open, it’s smart to get a few chains, padlocks and a ground anchor and secure these down. Pay special attention to your ladder, because they can be used to access other floors of the house, so they should always be secured or put away in the garage.

Invest in a fence

One of the best ways to boost security in your backyard is to get a sturdy fence. Burglars might be scared to jump over and realize they are trapped, so they will stay away from your space thanks to your fence. Make sure to find a fencing supplier with a good reputation and plenty of experience, so you know your fence will be sturdy and installed properly. With this simple move, you will add a ton of security, safety (your kids and pets will always stay safely inside), privacy and noise control to your backyard.

Install security cameras

Outdoor cameras are also a great security feature that will give you peace of mind during the night or when your kids are home alone. The best devices have motion sensors that capture any movement in your outdoor space. Also, some cameras can automatically alert authorities if they detect someone in your backyard. And most cameras today have phone apps, so you can monitor your outdoor space wherever you are and know exactly what’s going on there.

Be strategic with greenery

Your choice of backyard plants can make or break burglars’ plans, so make sure to be strategic when planting and pruning. If you know how, you can easily keep intruders away with your landscaping. Firstly, tall shrubbery is a perfect cover for sketchy characters, and they can use it to hide behind and watch your home or to pry open a window or door. So make sure all your foundation plants are low so no one can hind behind them.

Additionally, keeping tall trees near your fence or your house can provide a hiding spot and something to climb on, so it’s best to remove these to ensure optimal safety in your backyard. Instead, focus on thorny plants around the fence and under windows (unless you have small kids who could get hurt). If breaking in through the window means going through a cactus patch or a rose bush, many will give up.

Add a furry protector to your backyard

Did you know that one of the most effective deterrents for burglars is a guard dog? Big dogs are more successful in keeping intruders away, but even small ones can alert the owner and provide plenty of distraction for the bad guy. If you’re not ready to become a dog parent, buy a “Beware of Dog” sticker and put it on your gate, fence and doors—not many will stick around to check if you actually have a guard dog or not.

None of these ideas above are too big to be performed quickly, easily and with little investment, but the returns in security will be immeasurable. The safety of your family and property are worth every penny you spend!

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

How to Safeguard Your Plumbing from Tree Roots

The purpose of tree roots is to absorb and transport water and minerals from the soil to the rest of the tree. Therefore it is only natural that roots from trees and shrubs grow toward sewer lines. These pipes hold the water source that the plant needs, as well as oxygen and nutrients. Roots that find a way into a tube through a leak will grow fast and cause blockages resulting in damaged pipes. This instance is one of the reasons why regular plumbing inspections and maintenance are necessary. 

Sewage leaks are unhygienic and lead to health problems, and repairing the damage caused by the roots can be very costly. Prevent costly repair bills by taking a few precautionary measures when planting trees and maintaining pipes. 

But first, you must be aware of the signs that the tree roots are the primary culprit in causing damages to your pipes. Here are the symptoms:

• Bad Odor

• Sewer Flies

• Toilet Drainage

• Water Backups/ Overflow

If you ever noticed these signs, it's time to get your pipes checked and take precautionary measures to prevent this instance from happening again. 

1. Locate the Sewage Lines in Your Area

It is essential to know and locate where your underground pipes, lines, and cables run as an establishment owner. This information will help you in future potential planting or landscaping projects in your area. It is also best to limit the amount of plant present next to your sewer line to avoid problems with your pipes. 

2. Have Regular Maintenance and Inspection

When clog drains frequently occur, this can be difficult to clean and emit gurgling noises. Call a plumber to inspect the drain and sewer lines if you notice the signs. With the help of surface mount access panels, a plumber will have easy access to your drainpipes and can use a camera by running it through the pipes to locate injured areas. After the inspection is complete, the plumber will make the necessary recommendations. For regions with significant tree-root damage, you must replace the lines.

In addition, you can also clean sewer lines regularly and inspect the structure of the pipes to avoid significant sewer repairs. Regular maintenance and clearing the lines prevent root growth inside the pipes. Sewer-line care involves threading a cable through the sewer pipe that cuts through tree roots or clogs and cleans the sewer pipe to the inner walls.

3. Safeguard Your Sewer Lines

One of the most helpful methods to keep pesky tree roots out of your sewer pipes is to build a barrier between the trees and the sewer lines. There are various options available for you to create a practical hurdle. One of the common examples is by purchasing slow-release chemical solutions designed for residential properties. These chemicals help stop the growth of roots within the sewer line area, minimizing the probability of tree roots uncovering their way into the water pipes through breaks or cracks. 

You can also use metal barriers and wood by burying them about 6 inches to a foot deeper than your pipes and running them vertically along the sewer line to prevent the roots from getting into the sewer pipes.

4. Plant Wisely 

Planning your landscaping project smartly and thoroughly is the best way to avoid problems that can lead to expensive repair bills. To prevent this instance, you can limit the number of plants you place close to sewer lines. Plant more giant trees far enough away from sewer lines, so the roots are not within reach of the pipes. If you do plant near sewer lines, select slow-growing trees with a small root ball.

Your plumbing pipes are the nutrient source for tree roots. It is why it is vital to be aware of the signs and symptoms if your pipes are damaged from tree roots, for it can impose some potential health risks for your occupants. Be sure to seek help from your local plumbers if ever you notice any damages.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Lousy Shower Habits That Ruin Your Plumbing

Having daily showers is part of most people’s routine. A good shower can do wonders for your mind and body. Cold showers can increase alertness, help with muscle recovery, and even improve our immune system, while hot showers can aid in detoxing your body, repair cells, and ease anxiety. 

The typical shower habits that cause damage to our plumbing are probably not the first thing that comes to your mind when you turn the knob to get the water going. Still, the way we get ready every morning can significantly affect our plumbing system. These ordinary shower routines might be beneficial, but they might also affect your plumbing. Here are some of the lousy shower habits that you should avoid. 

1. Ignoring Small Plumbing Issues

Many plumbing problems come with different warning signs before accurate disaster strikes. It is especially the case in the bathroom, where your shower is likely to give you a fair bit of prior warning if all is not well. The constantly dripping faucets or showers may not seem like a significant problem, but it could be a hint that you need to adjust water pressure before you ruin the plumbing. 

Similarly, hot water not lasting as long as you hoped is not only annoying, but it may also be a sign of a severe problem with your water heater. It’s always better to call a plumber as soon as you notice the minor problems than to ignore and risk them escalating. You can consider installing louvered access doors and panels for you to have easy access to your plumbings during minor check-ups. 

2. Leaving Puddles on the Bathroom Floor

We might often forget to drain up small water puddles in our bathroom, especially if we’re in a rush. Leaving water on the floor of your bathroom is a recipe for disaster. That water could cause mold growth, ruin your base, and can potentially cause much more widespread problems. Investing in a bath mat and cleaning up water spills after a shower will help to prevent severe water damage. 

3. Not Removing Falling Hairs From The Drain

Obstruction in your pipes is one of the most dangerous things for your plumbing system. As time goes by, hair that accumulates in your drain can slow and eventually block the drain completely. Use a drain cover or another hair-catching device like filters, then remove the hair after every shower, so it doesn’t create potential problems in the future. 

4. Not Removing Calcium Deposits 

You might not notice it, but it can leave deposits overtime when hard water dries, blocking the showerhead nozzle and reducing water flow. But you don’t have to worry; this common issue has a straightforward solution! You can add a little white vinegar, and it can easily remove calcium deposits, improving the function and appearance of your shower head in less than minutes. 

5. Staying in the Shower for Too Long

If you enjoy taking long showers, you might want to rethink that habit because it is one of the main reasons your bathroom may be a perfect place for mold growth. The steam that builds up in your bathroom during long showers can result in mold, which is unsuitable for your family’s health. Mold can quickly spread to every edge of your bathroom if good ventilation is not present. Shower curtains and loofahs are also breeding grounds for mold and bacteria and may need regular cleaning if you’ve noticed signs of decay. 

One way to eliminate mold growth is by reducing the temperature and length of your shower. You can also increase ventilation and reduce mold by opening a window or installing an exhaust fan. Cold showers and ice baths can increase alertness, help with muscle recovery, and even improve our immune system, while hot showers can aid in detoxing your body, repair cells, and ease anxiety.

6. Using Chemical Drain Cleaners 

If you’ve noticed a clog in your drain, whether from hair or other debris, using a chemical cleaner is the worst thing you could do for your health and your bathroom. Chemical cleaners may eliminate the clog, but they could leave you with a more severe problem. Not only are chemical cleaners bad for the environment, but they’re also harmful to your plumbing. These harsh chemicals can corrode your pipes, which can cost more than cleaning a simple clog. 

These bathroom habits may be simple, but you sure don’t want to ignore them, for it can open to more severe issues that can cause you a lot more repairs. Always remember to have your plumbings regularly checked by trained professionals. 

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Looking For Something to do This Fall?

The summer heat is finally gone and now we’re officially in Fall! Crisp cool air and the smell of pumpkin spice is every where! Are you a Fall lover like we are? There are so many things to do during the fall season, the ideas are infinite. What better way to show your spirit than getting festive? Check out our best ideas of activities to do this fall!

1. Go Apple Picking!

The best time of the year to go apple picking is in September, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go after then. Different types of apples are ripe during different times, but ideally the best time to go apple picking is very early Fall to get the most ripe and delicious apples.

2. Buy a Pumpkin Spice Latte!

There are many different variations of a pumpkin spice latte, you should get out and try one! There are lattes, macchiatos, cold brew, regular iced coffee, hot coffee, iced vanilla chai with pumpkin spice… tons of options! If you’ve never tried one, you should explore and try one. If you like them, make sure to get them as much as you can, you’ll miss it when it’s gone!!

3. Bake a Pumpkin Pie

Everyone loves pumpkin pie! They’re so simple and easy to make, even if you’re a beginner you can make one! Don’t forget the whip cream for the top, it’s a necessity! Here’s our favorite recipe.

4. Host a Halloween Party with Friends!

This is a great way to get all your friends together and celebrate Halloween! If you’re too old to trick or treat, you can still buy a costume and celebrate party wise!

5. Go for a Hayride!

Nothing says Fall like a hayride at a pumpkin patch! Instead of walking around the entire patch looking for a pumpkin, take the ride and enjoy the crisp air and the views of the field!

6. Have a Bonfire!

Nothing is better than a crispy cool evening with a fire and some friends. Grab some drinks and snacks, marshmallows and crackers for s’mores, and have a great time with friends around a fire!

7. Paint a Pumpkin!

Are you looking to get more creative with a pumpkin and don’t want to have to carve all of the guts out? Just paint it instead! Painting pumpkins is a great alternative for those who don’t want to get messy.

8. Carve a Pumpkin!

Don’t mind getting a little dirty? Cut the top open, and scrape out all of the guts to carve a design on your pumpkin to display outside! Sometimes it’s a little tricky, so use a stencil if you need to. There are stencils you can tape on, or you can draw on it with marker before you start cutting to eliminate mistakes.

9. Visit a Pumpkin Patch!

Nothing is more festive than walking around a pumpkin patch and enjoying the beautiful weather. Looking for a patch to visit? Check out our article on the best Pumpkin Patches in the South Suburbs to make your find a little easier!

10. Try Apple Cider!

Lots of people can’t wait for fall to come around for a cup of nice Apple Cider. Most people like it hot, but there’s cold options too!

11. Visit a Corn Maze!

Most of the time, corn mazes are located inside of pumpkin patches, it’s a two for one deal! Check out a corn maze and see if you have what it takes to get out and not get tricked!

12. Haunted Hay Ride

Are you a fan of spooky things? Some haunted houses offer haunted hay rides where instead of you walking around, you are pulled through their spooky site and look at all the scary things while staying seated.

13. Visit a Haunted House!

There are many haunted houses that open around Halloween, are you ready to be scared?

14. Watch Fall Shows/Movies!

There are tons of classical movies and shows you can watch to set the fall vibes!

• The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown

• Halloweentown

• Hocus Pocus

• Casper the Friendly Ghost

• Beetlejuice

• Dead Poets Society

• Good Will Hunting

• Harry Potter Trilogy

15. Check out a Farmers Market!

This is the best time to visit a farmers market, there will be tons of fresh apples, pumpkins, mums, sunflowers, anything fall related you can think of!

16. Roast Pumpkin Seeds!

Did you carve a pumpkin and now you don’t know what to do with the seeds? Roast them! You can season them with whatever you’d like to get whatever flavor you’re trying to achieve! The possibilities are endless.

There are so many things to do to celebrate the season of fall and halloween. Remember to get festive and get outdoors and try things out!

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell

Amazing Outdoor Fire Place Ideas

Fall is finally here! Nothing is better than a nice warm and cozy fire in your own backyard during a chilly fall day. There are so many ways to make your fireplace look warm and inviting, it just takes some imagination! Whether you’re on a strict budget, or no budget at all, anyone can spice up their fire place to make it warm and inviting.

Tips for Fixer-Uppers Who Can’t Decide Whether to Sell or Rent

Fixing up a home can be a challenging and rewarding experience, but many homeowners are faced with a multitude of questions once the project is finished. Do you stay or make a profit on a house with a refreshed value? Sell to one buyer, or rent to various tenants? Depending on the location, you might even consider turning it into a vacation rental and create ongoing income. 

If you’re unsure of what to do with your newly renovated home, take a few things into consideration first, such as how much competition you have, the average sale price for homes in your area, and the cost of upkeep on a rental, including funds for emergency services. Fortunately, Kevin Szabo Jr. offers reliable plumbing services for kitchens and baths in the South Suburbs area, giving you peace of mind should a problem arise in this department. For further tips on how to make the right choice for your needs, read on.

Look for help

 There are several things to think about when it comes to turning a home into a vacation rental. Location is the most important factor. If the property is located close to the central business district or popular tourist haunts of Chicago like the famous Millenium Park, Magnificent Mile, etc., it can be very lucrative for short-term leases. 

It’s also important to note that there are some resources available to help you create a safe, easy experience for renters. Listing your home with a property management company will lend some legitimacy to your rental and can even bring in more revenue than if you were to try to handle everything yourself. You can even take advantage of housekeeping services so your home will always be clean and ready for guests. 

Consider the benefits of steady income

Vacation rentals are a great way to earn extra income, but some seasons are slower than others. If you want to ensure a steadier flow of cash, consider renting out your home to a tenant. This process requires some careful preparation, including acquiring specific insurance, learning landlord and tenant laws in your area, and creating a lease agreement. You’ll also need to come up with a set of rental policies to ensure that your tenants understand the rules. Common guidelines include no painting without permission, no smoking, and no unauthorized pets.

Do some research

If renting comes with too much responsibility, you might consider simply selling your newly renovated home. Do some research to find out the average sale price of similar homes in your area, and to find out what buyers are looking for in the current market. If you spent a lot of time and money on the kitchen or bathroom, tout those renovations to potential buyers, as they are some of the biggest selling points universally. 

Stage it

 Whether you’re renting, selling, or making your home available for vacationers, it’s essential to stage each area beautifully to create a comfortable, safe environment. Eliminate clutter, clean every space, and make a list of things to provide to temporary renters, like towels, kitchen items, paper products, and linens. 

If you’re selling, make a list of items you might be willing to include in the sale, as well as those you definitely don’t want to give up. Use natural lighting, add plants, and put away personal items and photos. When it’s time to list the home, take professional photographs that accurately show each space, both indoor and outdoor.  

It can be difficult to think about giving up a home that you put so much hard work into, but there are several benefits that come with renting or selling. Use all the resources at your disposal to ensure you’re making the right choice for your needs, both now and down the road.

Need to book plumbing services? Contact Kevin today and get some peace of mind.

How To Find a Fabulous Office Furniture Table on a Limited Budget

A gorgeous, classy office furniture table is a must for any work area. But buying one can be pretty expensive! What if you are on a limited budget? Is it not possible to buy one without breaking the bank?

Fortunately, you can find an office furniture table that will help you improve your work productivity and won't cost you a lot. Here are some tips to help you buy one for your office space.

5 Tips to Find a Fabulous Office Furniture Table on a Limited Budget

Tip #1: Consider the type of desk needed

There are various types of desks available in the market today. If you plan to set up a home office, it's best to consider one with drawers so essential documents and records can be stored properly. You'll also need to choose whether or not it should come with filing cabinets attached or if you should purchase separate ones instead. It would be to purchase with the table. If you're setting up an office area at home for work and personal use, then the best option would be to buy a computer desk with ample space underneath to store papers or other items. You can also have this in combination with storage cabinets, so not only are you maximizing your workspace but that of your office furniture table as well. You can also check out some great office cubicles for sale. 

Tip #2: Look for used office furniture tables

A great way to find high-quality yet affordable pieces is by looking for second-hand furniture. Sites like Craigslist or even eBay have many options where individuals or companies sell pre-owned items at discounted prices. It's best to look through multiple listings, so it's easier to compare prices and brands. The advantage of buying used is that if you opt for a good manufacturer, they'll most likely still be available even years after purchase through their authorized resellers. It means the brands will continue to service and sell spare parts such as replacement glass tops, drawers, or locks. 

Tip #3: Look for open box items

Another way you can save money is by looking out for open box items. These products have been returned and opened before but are still in excellent condition and perfect for office furniture tables. The advantage of buying them is that their prices usually cost less than those new ones despite only being once before. But make sure to examine the product before actually buying it carefully. Check for any damages or problems that the seller may have missed and establish if there's a warranty before you commit to the purchase.

Tip #4: Shop during sales

Sale time is one of the best times to find a fabulous office furniture table on a limited budget. During this period, shops usually give away significant discounts to clear up their inventory, especially end-of-season sales. A great strategy is to shop online from home during sale time then use coupons when making your order. Some stores offer free shipping deals whenever they hold such promotional events, which adds to savings for consumers like you.

Tip #5 Shop online

A good number of online stores will let you rent their tables at low prices. If you do not want to keep it for long, consider renting the table only until your project gets over. Or else, lease with an option to buy later or return. You could go in for co-sharing, too, where others who need tables could share the space and costs instead of having individual rentals. Now you have several options to choose from when looking to rent an office furniture table.

As a bonus, you will be able to choose from several types of tables such as glass, metal, or wooden, depending upon the aesthetic appeal and comfort level. For example, the glass table reflects the light beautifully and provides a bright feel while it is cold to touch during hot summer months. The wood color fits perfectly with your décor and brings in warmth and sophistication. The metallic type is solid and sturdy for use every day without any problems.

When you buy a good office furniture table, not only will it help improve your work productivity, it can also add to the overall look of your home. And since the prices are usually much lower than regular items, finding one won't break the bank at all. However, when buying one for commercial purposes, make sure to identify potential risks involved before committing to its purchase. You should be aware of safety hazards such as sharp edges and other dangers that could harm customers or even employees when used carelessly. Other considerations include durability and maintenance costs which you should carefully consider before actually making any purchases.

Guest Contributor: Adeendren Iyan

How to Deodorize a Room: 11 Natural Remedies to Beat Funky Smells

Are you getting hit with bad smells as soon as you walk through your door? Whether you’re a landlord getting your unit ready for new tenants or a renter looking to freshen up your space, learn how to deodorize a room naturally to stop unpleasant odors in their tracks. If your former renters were messy, smoked, or had pets, there’s a chance they’ve left behind some unappealing smells.

Natural deodorizers are perfect for freshening up your space, plus they’re a perfect eco-friendly apartment hack. Ensure that future tenants won’t turn up their nose at your listing and try out these natural remedies.

Table of Contents:

• Essential Oils for Your Home and Mood

• 11 Natural Recipes to Deodorize a Room

• Benefits of Using Natural Remedies

• How to Prevent Odors from Occurring

• Download Natural Odor Remedy Guide

Essential Oils for Your Home and Mood

Essential oils are biodegradable and all-natural. Many also can contain antibacterial, antiseptic, antifungal, and antiviral properties that can help freshen your rentals. Plus, various scents can help boost your mood.

Several studies have indicated that smells can have a positive effect on humans and can even encourage certain emotions — this is where essential oils come into play. Here are some of our favorite essential oils with both cleaning and mood-boosting properties:

• Lavender: Lavender essential oils can help fight bacteria, viruses, and fungus. The scent can also help promote relaxation and sleep, which makes it the perfect deodorizer for bedding or clothing.

• Peppermint: Essential oils containing peppermint have antiseptic properties which makes it a great cleaning agent. Plus, peppermint is known to revitalize and stimulate your mood — perfect motivation when preparing and cleaning an apartment for new tenants.

• Orange: Orange essential oil has both antiseptic and antibacterial properties and is also a great degreaser for any stains previous tenants might have left behind on stubborn surfaces like countertops and stoves. Orange also has a very uplifting and refreshing scent — great for relaxing.

• Tea tree: Tea tree essential oil is an all-around great cleaner and contains a number of antibiotic compounds, including terpinen-4-ol, that have been shown to kill certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Its herbaceous scent is also said to curb depressed thoughts and boost mental clarity.

Essential oils are great to have in your home and are a non-toxic alternative to traditional chemical cleaners. They also work well to deodorize your home when combined with other ingredients, like baking soda. As a landlord, you’re responsible for making sure your rental is safe and welcoming for future tenants. Using all-natural essential oil cleaners can help send the message that you care about your property.

11 Natural Recipes to Deodorize a Room

We all deal with home odors from time to time, and luckily there are simple and easy recipes you can make with ingredients that are probably already in your pantry. As a landlord, freshening up a unit space is equally important in attracting potential renters. Use the following recipes, tips, and tricks below to ensure your unit is ready for new tenants.

1. DIY Basic Room Spray 

Instead of purchasing an air freshener, create your own DIY room spray using your favorite essential oils. With this recipe, you’ll have an easy way to quickly freshen up any room:

Room spray recipe:

• 2 to 3 drops essential oils: for a seasonal twist, choose cinnamon or peppermint

• 1 tablespoon baking soda

• Distilled water

Mix the essential oils, water, and baking soda. Add mixture to a spray bottle and shake well to create the perfect freshening spray for your space. You can even get into the holiday spirit by using cinnamon or peppermint essential oils.

To help the smell linger, feel free to add some witch hazel — this ingredient helps the oil and water combine better! This remedy is also great for cleaning units before a new tenant moves in. 

2. Easy Carpet Refresher 

Is the carpet in your rental smelling a little less than fresh? If you’re in the process of deep cleaning and getting your unit ready to rent out, reach for that baking soda in your pantry. Baking soda is a great non-toxic cleaner that does the job when it comes to busting bad odors. Here’s a simple and cheap recipe for an easy carpet refresher:

Carpet refresher recipe: 

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• 1 cup baking soda

• 1 shaker container

Mix these ingredients and throw in a shaker container — a clean parmesan cheese container is ideal. Sprinkle into the carpet and let sit for about an hour or so. Then, vacuum it up. To make the space smell as if you just baked a batch of snickerdoodles, add some ground cinnamon to your mixture — with the holidays right around the corner, this is the perfect scent to welcome guests to an open house!

3. Pet Odor Buster

If a past tenant’s pet left behind stinky odors in your rental, make this recipe to spray on surfaces:

Fresh pet recipe:

• 3 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol

• 12 drops of lavender or spearmint essential oil

• 2 cups of water

• 1 spray bottle

Mix these ingredients and spritz liberally on areas of your house that need some freshening up! Consider choosing essential oils from lavender or spearmint — these are safe for pets, however, it’s always a good idea to check with your veterinarian before using. 

Additionally, if your pet’s bedding requires some TLC, sprinkle it with some baking soda. Let this sit for a while and then vacuum.  

4. Fridge Smell Eliminator 

Did past tenants leave behind some odors in the fridge? If you get a funky whiff when you open the fridge, say goodbye with this natural remedy: 

Fridge deodorizer recipe: 

• 1 cup baking soda

• 12 drops of essential oils

• 1 jar

Place a cup of baking soda in a jar. Mix in 12 drops of your favorite essential oil fragrance — for the fridge we recommend using a citrus like lemon. Set the open jar of baking soda on a shelf and let the magic happen — baking soda is great for absorbing those bad fridge smells. Be careful not to add too much essential oil, though, you don’t want it to affect the taste of your fresh food. 

5. De-Mildew the Washing Machine

If previous renters have let gunk build-up in the washing machine, you might be looking for a solution to get rid of that mildew smell. Washers are a humid environment prone to a build-up of dirt, hair, and soap. To get rid of this problem, a simple mixture of common household products and essential oils should do the trick:

Washing machine cleaner recipe:

• 3 to 4 cups of white vinegar

• ½ cup of baking soda

• 20 drops of essential oils

First, using vinegar, wipe down any debris that may be present, like in the rubber liner or gasket. Then, pour this mixture into the detergent tray and run a cycle on the hottest setting — without clothes! When the cycle is done, wipe down any remaining moisture with a cloth to prevent new mildew growth. To further prevent any funky smells, encourage the next tenant to leave the washer door open when they’re done to avoid trapping any moisture in the machine. 

6. Microwave Oven Deodorizer

Bad smells from old soup stains, burnt popcorn, and other greasy foods aren’t ideal in the microwave. However, you can deodorize it just as fast as you can heat up today’s lunch: 

Microwave cleaner recipe: 

• 2 tablespoons baking soda

• 1 cup of water

• 1 microwave-safe bowl

All you need to do is fill a microwave-safe bowl with baking soda and mix with a cup of water. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat for three minutes. The hot baking soda steam will loosen up any grime stuck to the side or ceiling of the microwave. Carefully remove the hot bowl from the microwave and wipe down the steamy oven with a paper towel. To leave a fresh scent, wipe the microwave down with a drop or two of lemon-scented essential oil.

7. Seasonal Simmer Pot Air Freshener

As the holidays get closer and the weather gets colder, try a seasonal simmer pot air freshener. This long-lasting aroma will instantly create a homey and warm ambiance that you and any touring potential tenants will love. Try out this easy recipe, but feel free to mix and match your favorite seasonal ingredients for a unique scent:

Simmer pot recipe:

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4 whole cloves

• 1 orange, sliced

• 1 lemon, sliced

• 1 bay leaf

Add all these items to a medium pot or a small slow cooker. Add water to fill about halfway. Turn the burner on to low and let this simmer all day. If you’re using a slow cooker, set on low and let it freshen the air. Periodically check the water level and add more as needed.

8. Keep Your Closet Crisp

Closets are common culprits of stale smells as they’re often stuffed with piles of clothes, dirty laundry, and shoes. If you need to air out a closet from a previous tenant or you just want to keep the small space smelling fresh, use this simple scented sachets hack:

Scented sachet recipe:

• Dried herbs or flowers of your choice

• Small fabric sachets

• Ribbon

• Optional: essential oils

To make these DIY sachets, first, pick out your choice of dried herbs or flowers. For a more floral scent, choose lavender or rose petals. If you prefer something more earthy, go for rosemary. Fill up your fabric sachets with your dried herbs or flowers and tie off the bag with ribbon. To intensify the smell, add a few drops of essential oils of your choice. Also, feel free to stick these sachets in your dresser drawers to keep those socks smelling fresh.

9. Freshen Up Your Bathroom

A small bowl of baking soda on an upper shelf will absorb odors without adding any chemical smell. You can also put a few drops of essential oil on cotton balls and place inside a roll of toilet paper which will release the scent every time the roll is turned. Fresh eucalyptus leaves are also very effective at deodorizing — place these in a vase above the toilet or in your shower for some added aromatherapy. 

10. Garbage Disposal Debris Cleaner

Are there bad smells creeping out of the sink? The source may be the garbage disposal. Little bits of food that got washed off past tenants’ dishes can get caught in the garbage disposal, creating a smelly odor that lingers long after they’ve moved out. Here’s a get hack to get rid of this problem: 

• To clean the blades: Put a large cup of ice cubes down into your disposal, turn it on, and then add about half a cup of salt. The ice and salt will combine to scrub the built-up off the inside of your disposal.

• To freshen up the disposal: To get rid of any odors, turn on the faucet and drop sliced citrus peels down into the disposal. As you run the disposal, the citrus peels will leave a refreshing scent behind as they get ground up.

11. Cigarette Smoke Removal

Removing cigarette odors from an apartment can cause a headache for landlords or new tenants. Cigarette smells seem to cling on to any surface they come in contact with, like carpet, your new drapes, or a precious armchair. Instead of masking the smell with commercial air fresheners, try a DIY method to absorb or neutralize it:

• To absorb: Sprinkle baking soda on surfaces that smell like cigarette smoke, or fill several small bowls with baking soda and place around your space to absorb the smoke particles. If you have it on hand, activated charcoal is also very effective at absorbing these stubborn odors.

• To neutralize: White vinegar is a common nontoxic household staple that works to neutralize odors. Its low pH content targets the high pH content of smoke particles and alters them slightly to reduce the smell. For a quick fix, boil a pot of vinegar on the stove — the steam will waft through the air and work to remove the smell. You can also use vinegar as a wash: simply wash clothes with it or scrub it on upholstery and walls.

If the methods above don’t work, try washing your windows, window coverings, and carpets. To get your unit ready for new tenants, consider also repainting your walls with odor-blocking primers or replacing fixtures such as cabinets. Also, to help prevent this in the future, encourage renters to keep things fresh by implementing a no smoking policy. 

Benefits of Using Natural Remedies 

In addition to these natural remedies being super easy to make, as well as effective, they’re also much less harmful than using chemical deodorizers. Over 20 percent of the general U.S. population has reported having adverse health effects from air fresheners. 

Common household products like air fresheners can contribute significantly to indoor air pollution and can also stick to and be absorbed by furniture, walls and surfaces, carpets, and more. They can then be released and re-enter indoor air, even long after you’ve used the air freshener.

Although they may smell nice, cutting out chemical air fresheners from your cleaning routine will leave your home not only more pleasant for friends and family, but also safer for your health. As a landlord, using these natural remedies are great in case a future tenant may be sensitive to these chemical cleaners and can attract those that are eco-conscious. 

How Tenants Can Prevent Odors 

Even though there are plenty of natural remedies you can create to deodorize your home, there are a few precautions to help you avoid these bad smells in the first place:

• Do laundry often: Letting piles of dirty clothes sit in your laundry bins can quickly contribute to bad odors. Don’t let laundry linger for extended periods — it might be the cause of the smells like must and mildew. Get those washed ASAP!

• Toss expired food: It may be time to check out those expiration dates. Old food like meat and dairy products can give off bad odors that seem to stick to your fridge forever. Go through and toss any expired goods to make sure nothing stinks as you open the doors.

• Wash your bedsheets: While we’re all getting our beauty sleep, our beds are collecting fungus, bacteria, and dead skin cells which won’t smell good after some time. To avoid this, wash all your linens at least once a week. According to Joshua Zeichner, M.D., microorganisms like bacteria and fungi tend to thrive in moist environments — including your dirty pillowcase. Get rid of funky smells in your bedding by adding a few cups of white vinegar to your washer.

• No shoes allowed: If you can, enforce a no-shoes allowed policy in your home so bad odors can’t get dragged onto your sparkling clean floors or fresh carpet.

• Keep the sink clean: Do those dishes! Keeping the kitchen clean right after you cook and eat will help avoid scary sink and garbage disposal smells.

• Clean vents & replace air filters: If you’ve cleaned every room and have tried these natural remedies and things still smell a little stale, try wiping down air vents and replacing your HVAC filter — be sure to check with your landlord before making this change. This quick-fix can quickly ventilate your room and filter out those bad smells.

• Open your windows: Nothing can get more natural than simply opening up your windows. On days with good outdoor air quality, open up the windows to bring in new air to freshen up your space.

  From essential oils and baking soda to citrus peels and cinnamon sticks, these natural remedies will be the first things that come to mind the next time you’re wondering how to deodorize your rental — they’ll come in handy if you’re getting ready to list your apartmentor looking to create a more environmentally friendly rental. 

  If you’re a landlord looking to fill an apartment, visit our rental application and tenant screening services to help find the perfect tenants. 

Guest Contributor: Sarah Stinson

Sarah is the Director of Content and SEO at TurboTenant where she leads a team of experts to provide valuable resources to help landlords and renters. With over 10 years of experience writing in various industries, she has been featured in many top tier publications and is an expert in the real estate tech space as well as the property management industry.

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