Firstly, congratulations on your new home! As you settle in, you might notice a lingering reminder of its previous inhabitants – the smell of nicotine. If you are a non-smoker moving into a previously owned home of a former smoker, here are some helpful tips to make your space fresh and inviting.
The first step is to open up the windows and let the fresh air flow through your home. Airing out your space is the simplest and most effective way to begin eliminating the odor.
Next give your walls, ceilings, floors, and any other affected surfaces a thorough cleaning. Don’t forget to wash curtains, blinds, and upholstery as well.
If the odor persists, consider repainting the walls and ceilings with a primer designed to seal in odors. Opt for low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paint to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals.
Another important step is to replace or clean the filters in your HVAC system to remove nicotine particles from the air circulating throughout your home.
Place bowls of activated charcoal, baking soda, or coffee grounds in areas where the odor is most noticeable. These natural odor absorbers can help neutralize and eliminate lingering smells.
Nicotine odor can easily become trapped in carpets and upholstery. Rent or purchase a steam cleaner to thoroughly clean and deodorize these surfaces. In some cases, you may even need to replace these items.
Consider investing in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter to continuously clean and refresh the air in your home.
Lastly, be patient. Removing nicotine odor from your home may take time and multiple attempts. Be patient and persistent in your efforts, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
