Exposure to secondhand smoke has immediate harmful effects on the heart and blood vessels and can cause coronary heart disease and stroke. Among adults who do not smoke, secondhand smoke causes nearly 34,000 premature deaths from heart disease each year in the U.S. Adults who do not smoke and are exposed to secondhand smoke increase their risk of developing coronary heart disease by 25–30%. Exposure to secondhand smoke interferes with the normal functioning of the heart, blood, and vascular systems in ways that increase the risk of having a heart attack.
Other fascinating yet terrifying stats:
If you’re dealing with stubborn smoke odor, you’ll need more than just air fresheners to get rid of it for good. Whether the smell is from cigarettes, a fireplace, or a recent kitchen mishap, eliminating it requires a combination of deep cleaning, odor-absorbing materials, and proper ventilation. Here are 9 effective ways to banish smoke odor and freshen up your space.
Improving airflow is a crucial first step in eliminating smoke odors. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate, and use fans to facilitate air movement. This process helps dissipate lingering smoke particles and introduces clean air into your home.
Smoke residues can settle on walls, ceilings, and other hard surfaces. To remove these residues:
Fabrics and upholstery can absorb smoke odors deeply. Here's how to treat them:
Carpets can trap smoke particles, contributing to lingering odors. To clean them:
Natural substances can effectively absorb and neutralize smoke odors:
Smoke particles can infiltrate heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems:
Air purifiers with HEPA and activated carbon are highly effective against smoke. HEPA captures fine particles down to 0.3 microns while activated carbon adsorbs smoke odors, chemicals, and VOCs. For everyday home use, choose portable air purifiers for odors and VOCs. For persistent, heavy smoke loads (cigars, hookah, or busy smoking areas), step up to a commercial smoke eater to clear the air quickly.
Smoke odors can cling to fabrics. Wash clothing, bedding, and other washable fabrics with a cup of white vinegar added to the wash cycle to neutralize odors.
Consider hiring professional cleaning services specializing in smoke odor removal for severe smoke damage. They have the expertise and equipment to address extensive smoke contamination.
To prevent future smoke odors:
Maintaining a smoke-free home is essential for your health and comfort. Many of our customers have experienced significant improvements in their living environments after incorporating these solutions.
For related articles for commercial settings, see How to Choose the Right Smoke Eater for Your Cigar Bar and for facilities or shops that need sizing guidance, check CFM Math for Welding Bays: A Quick Calculator to Size Smoke Eaters.
If your goal is to eliminate lingering smoke odor—not just mask it—you need a smoke eater sized to your space and smoking load. Match the unit’s airflow (CFM) and carbon capacity to your room volume so odors are captured and neutralized continuously. First, use our CFM Calculator to determine how many cubic feet per minute of clean air your room requires. Then pick the mounting style and brand that fit your layout (portable, surface-mount, flush-mount, or concealed). Want a fast, tailored recommendation for odor control? Submit the Smoke-Eater Recommendation Form, or contact us and a specialist will size your system for effective, permanent smell removal.
We carefully select and work with top American manufacturers and brands to offer a wide range of residential and commercial air purification options. We hope you found this article helpful and look forward to helping you have a healthier environment.