If you’ve gone noseblind to certain odors in your home, be sure to check these four problem areas so you can quell smells.
Your Front-Load Washer
Any appliance that comes in constant contact with water can be susceptible to harboring mold, which can produce odorous bacteria. Moisture from your loads of laundry can become trapped in the seal of your front loader each time you open the door.
A simple solution is to leave your washer’s door and detergent drawer open for 2 to 3 hours after your last load. If you do discover mold, clean the affected area with an even mixture of baking soda and white vinegar.
Your Dishwasher
Mold and horrible odors can develop inside of your dishwasher. Mold thrives in damp, warm, conditions—and particularly so when there are food particles lingering in your dishwasher from its last cycle.
You can help prevent mold and odors by routinely running your empty dishwasher on a dry-heat cycle to flush the interior, which includes the silverware basket, panels, filter, and door gasket. Sometimes the silverware basket can become moldy. Just soak it in your sink using a mix of warm water and diluted bleach for 30 minutes. Rinse it well before placing it back into the dishwasher.
Your Garbage Disposal
When grime from food particles builds inside the drain of your garbage disposal, odors are sure to follow. To help prevent this, wipe the inside of the drain clean. You can also invest in a garbage disposal deodorizer. A cheaper solution is to place a few strips of orange, lemon, or lime peel into the disposal, and turn it on. Not only will the ground peels help clean your drain by dislodging food particles, they will help deodorize it and freshen your kitchen.
Your New Furniture
Much like a new car, new furniture has a distinctive “new” smell, which you might find somewhat pleasing. If the intensity of the smell persists after a month, however, you may want to think about getting a refund. Why? Because the “new” smell is likely caused by volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, which can be toxic. Prolonged exposure can cause headaches, nose, eye and throat irritation, and even kidney and liver damage. The solution? Invest in an air purifier that has a carbon filter.
