Removing cigarette smell from a house can be challenging, as the odor can penetrate various surfaces and linger even after painting, changing carpets, and blinds. However, taking these steps can significantly improve the smell and air quality inside the house. Here's what you can do:
Cleaning and Surface Preparation: Before making any changes, thoroughly clean all surfaces, including walls, ceilings, floors, and windows. Use a mixture of vinegar and water or specialized cleaning products designed to eliminate smoke odors.
Painting: Repainting the walls and ceilings with a high-quality primer designed to seal odors and a fresh coat of paint can help trap the cigarette smell and prevent it from permeating the air.
Changing Carpets and Flooring: Cigarette odors can get trapped in carpets and other soft surfaces. Consider replacing carpets and, if possible, opt for hard flooring like hardwood, laminate, or tile, which are easier to clean and don't hold onto odors as much.
Blinds and Window Treatments: Smoke particles can settle on blinds and other window treatments. Replacing or thoroughly cleaning them can help eliminate some of the lingering smell.
Deep Cleaning Upholstery and Furniture: If the house comes furnished, deep clean all upholstery and furniture, as they can retain cigarette smells.
Air Purifiers: Invest in high-quality air purifiers with HEPA filters to help capture and remove airborne particles and odors.
Odor Absorbers: Place odor-absorbing products like baking soda, activated charcoal, or commercial odor absorbers strategically throughout the house to help neutralize the smell.
Proper Ventilation: Keep windows open whenever possible to allow fresh air to circulate and help disperse any remaining odors.
Despite taking these steps, it's essential to manage your expectations. Completely removing cigarette smell can be challenging, especially if the previous occupants were heavy smokers. Some odor may still linger, particularly in hidden or hard-to-reach places, but the combination of painting, changing carpets, and blinds will certainly help significantly reduce the smell.
Before finalizing the purchase, it's advisable to spend some time in the house during different times of the day to ensure you are comfortable with the odor level and that it doesn't trigger any sensitivities or health issues. If the smell is overwhelming or persistent, you may want to consider consulting with a professional cleaning service or an odor remediation specialist who can provide more targeted solutions.