Why the apartment smells bad: 8 places that spoil the aesthetics

Home is a place where we should feel comfortable and cozy, so an unpleasant odor in the apartment can be a real problem. Not only does it spoil the atmosphere, but it can also negatively affect your health.

Sometimes unpleasant odors remain even if you have thoroughly cleaned your home. That's why Real Simple has revealed 8 non-obvious places that are often the source of stench.

If you can't figure out where the unpleasant odor is coming from, and it's preventing your home from smelling fresh and clean, you should check a few places.

1. The trash can

This point may seem obvious, as everyone knows that garbage smells bad. However, sometimes the source of the odor is not the waste itself, but the waste bin.

Over time, plastic can absorb unpleasant odors, so it should be washed regularly. If plain water and soap can't cope with the stench, spray the bin with diluted bleach and leave it for a few hours.

2. Pets

Pets can often be a source of unpleasant odors. Therefore, you should bathe your pet more often and clean their sleeping and eating areas with soap and water at least once a week.

3. A basket of dirty clothes

Do not put a basket of dirty clothes in the bathroom, as bacteria multiply incredibly quickly in a humid environment. Instead, keep it in your bedroom or in a closed closet.

4. Bedding

Sheets, duvet covers, and pillowcases quickly accumulate not only dust, but also sebum, dirt, and sweat. Therefore, if you do not change them regularly, they can become a source of unpleasant odor.

You should wash your bedding weekly if you shower in the morning and every two weeks if you shower before bed.

5. Washing machine

Household appliances that are in constant contact with water can form mold, which is an ideal breeding ground for stinky bacteria. To prevent this, always leave the washing machine door open after use.

If you already have a smelly washing machine, you should clean it with vinegar and baking soda.

6. Dishwasher

Unpleasant odors in the dishwasher can be caused not only by moisture, but also by food residue. Therefore, you should regularly clean the filter, which accumulates dirt, and periodically run the wash cycle without dishes using a special dishwasher detergent.

7. Trash can cabinet

Make sure that the corners of the bin cabinet are clean, as smelly dirt from organic waste can sometimes get trapped there.

8. New furniture

You might think you like the smell of your new couch, just like you like the smell of a new car. However, it is probably caused by volatile organic compounds that are harmful to your health.

In order to avoid eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and even more serious illnesses, you can use an air purifier with a carbon filter.

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