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How to Make Your Home Smell Good - The Right Way

The proboscis, that is, the nose - is one of the main ways by which we derive enjoyment from our environment. For many people, it doesn't get much better than the scent of fresh-brewed coffee or baked bread in the morning, or fresh flowers on the dining room table. However, what happens when the odors in our home are not the good kind? What is the best way to eliminate them? The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) offers some helpful solutions. [Note: Ad or content links featured on this page are not necessarily affiliated with IICRC (The cleantrust) and should not be considered a recommendation or endorsement by IICRC (The cleantrust)].

 

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There are odors that can occur in homes that would make an elephant tie his trunk in knots to avoid. Sources may include:

  • animal urine
  • disaster contaminates
  • moisture problems
  • general soil build-up

Using a can of "Foul Odor Be Gone" spray only covers up the problem. Rather than relying on products that "hide" the odor, the IICRC recommends a better way - the right way - to make your home smell good.

Odor removal involves four general principles:

  1. removing the source as possible;
  2. cleaning and drying the affected surfaces and materials;
  3. recreating and reversing the conditions of odor penetration with appropriate counteractants, and
  4. sealing restorable surfaces as necessary.

Following a good routine of cleaning, including regular use of certified firms and technicians, can help minimize general soiling odors. However, some sources of odor require specialized techniques and procedures. The IICRC recommends locating and using certified professionals. They are trained and experienced in dealing with carpet-related and other odors. They have the detection tools, specialized agents, equipment, and experience necessary to deal with odors of all types and kinds.

By implementing the IICRC’s advice, the home can continue to be a welcoming environment. You can make it smell good - the right way.

How to Make Your Home Smell Good - The Right Way:  Created on December 2nd, 2011.  Last Modified on January 21st, 2014

 

About IICRC

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a certification and standard-setting nonprofit organization for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. The IICRC serves the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and Japan, in partnership with regional and international trade associations.

The mission of IICRC is to identify and promote an international standard of care that establishes and maintains the health, safety and welfare of the built environment.

The IICRC, with industry-wide participation, certifies - and develops certifications and standards for - inspection, cleaning and restoration. The IICRC also serves as a valuable consumer referral source for IICRC-Certified technicians and firms. There are currently more than 53,000 active IICRC-Certified technicians, many with multiple certifications, and more than 6,000 IICRC-Certified Firms around the world.