Bacon. Fish. Broccoli. These things smell so darn delicious when dinner is on the stove — and so, um, less delicious the next morning. Lingering food smells are only nice when it’s, say, cookies or brownies.
So how do you eliminate these strong cooking odors in your kitchen? And the rest of your home? We have 5 easy-to-execute cures that will have your house smelling fresh in no time.
1. Make a pot of coffee.
The smell of freshly brewing coffee will help, but it’s really the spent grounds we’re after here. Coffee contains nitrogen, which neutralizes odors. Spread your wet coffee grounds out on a baking sheet to dry and just leave them out overnight. (You can also put these used-and-dried grounds in a bowl in the fridge to battle odors in there!)
2. Open your windows and use your range hood.
The best way to avoid odors is to blow them outside. If you have a range hood or vent over your stove, use it! Otherwise, an air conditioner or an air filter can help remove the stench.
Opening a window before you start cooking helps with air circulation, especially if you position a fan pointing out the window. If you forgot to open the window ahead of time, open it as soon as you remember — any little bit will help!
3. Burn a chef’s candle.
We’ve all know candles can help lift the scent of any room, but did you know chef’s candles will not only mask smells but help absorb any unwanted odors? Plus, most chef’s candles are made with essential oils like patchouli, geranium, and basil which will leave your kitchen smelling light and fresh.
4. Clean up right away.
Wipe splatters on the stove and countertop, and wash all greasy cooking pans right after cooking. It’s best to take care of a pan full of stinky oil that evening rather than letting the smell emanate overnight. Don’t forget to clean the drain of leftover food particles, run the garbage disposal, and take the trash out too!
5. Simmer your own natural potpourri.
Save your lemon rinds! Pleasant-smelling spices like cloves, cinnamon sticks, or citrusy lemon peels can be simmered in water on the stove for an all-natural air freshener that’ll mask any stinky kitchen smells. The potpourri steam is especially nice in the cooler/drier months. Just something to file away for winter.