Housekeeping · Indoor air quality

Indoor odors: find the source before using fragrance

Address food waste, moisture and other odor sources first. Scented products themselves can add indoor pollutants.

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Masking an odor with fragrance is not the same as removing its source. The U.S. EPA notes that air fresheners and some cleaning products can contribute particles and volatile organic compounds; source control and suitable ventilation are important. Odors do not all indicate the same hazard.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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Note which room and times odors occur, then inspect visible sources such as food-waste bins, refrigerator areas, damp cloths and sinks.
Discard spoiled food, clean affected bins and surfaces using material-safe methods, and dry them thoroughly.
Do not mask persistent wet walls, leaks or extensive mold with fragrance; ask building management or a suitable professional to investigate moisture sources.
Ventilate with windows or exhaust fans when outdoor air quality and indoor safety permit. Avoid automatically opening windows when outdoor smoke or pollution is high.
Do not rely on candles, sprays or diffusers to hide a persistent problem. Fragranced products can add particles or irritants; read the label.
Stop using a product if it causes eye, nose or breathing irritation and seek medical advice if necessary. Ask a building professional about unexplained persistent odors.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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