How Do Pros Remove Smoke Smell From a House?

The first step is figuring out how far the smoke traveled. The pros inspect walls, ceilings, floors, and HVAC ducts to see where soot and odor have settled. They also check porous materials like drywall, insulation, and carpet that can hold smoke smell for years.

Before any cleaning begins, the area is prepped. Furniture is moved or covered, and loose soot is vacuumed with HEPA equipment. This prevents smoke particles from spreading to clean areas during the work.

• Open windows for ventilation if safe
• Remove loose soot with dry sponges
• Seal off unaffected rooms with plastic sheeting
• Protect floors with drop cloths
• Turn off HVAC to avoid spreading odor

After dry cleaning, the pros move to wet cleaning. They use specialized detergents and deodorizers designed to break down smoke residue. Walls, ceilings, and floors are washed from bottom to top to avoid streaking. Rinsing is done with clean water to remove any cleaning residue.

For stubborn odors, the pros may apply an odor-neutralizing solution that chemically bonds with smoke particles. This is different from masking the smell with air fresheners. The goal is to change the smoke molecules so they no longer release odor.

• Wash walls with alkaline cleaner
• Rinse surfaces with clear water
• Apply odor neutralizer to all surfaces
• Clean inside cabinets and closets
• Wipe down baseboards and trim

Sometimes smoke has soaked into the paint or the drywall itself. In those cases, the pros apply a sealing primer before repainting. This primer locks in any remaining odor and creates a fresh surface for new paint. Without sealing, the smell can come back through the paint.

For heavily damaged drywall, the pros may cut out and replace sections. This is more involved but often necessary when smoke has penetrated the core. After sealing and repainting, the room should smell neutral. If you live in Arlington, keep your windows open during the final stages to help air out the space.