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Household odors from cooking, kids, pets, bathrooms, and guests can accumulate. Get rid of them with some simple remedies.

Step 1: Dispose of offenders
Remove anything growing fur or moss that is not a pet or a house plant.

Step 2: Absorb stink
Place open boxes of baking soda in the fridge to absorb stinky food odors. To absorb cigarette smoke and other smells throughout the house, place a few drops of lemon, orange, or peppermint essential oil on a cotton ball, and place in a container with a perforated lid.

Step 3: Scour cutting boards and counters
Scour wooden chopping blocks with a paste of lemon juice and baking soda or salt. Season with mineral oil.

Step 4: Sanitize surfaces
Sanitize countertops and other surfaces by sponging them down with a mixture of one part 35 percent food-grade hydrogen peroxide to 11 parts water.

Step 5: Clean microwave
To deodorize your microwave, mix 2 tablespoons baking soda and 1 cup water in a large microwave-safe bowl. Run the microwave on high for two to three minutes. Wipe the inside.

Tip
Throw a couple of lemon wedges in the water to add a fresh scent.

Step 6: Clean cat litter
Rid your home of cat smells. Empty the litter box, pour in an inch of white vinegar, and add baking soda and water. Let it soak for a few minutes, give it a good scrub, and rinse and dry. Soak, scrub, and add baking soda on the bottom before refilling.

Step 7: Deodorize toilet and drains
Scrub the toilet bowl with vinegar. Pour a ½ cup of bleach and a ½ cup of water down drains to prevent unwanted odors.

Step 8: Use activated charcoal
Fill containers with activated charcoal and place in areas affected by mold and mildew. Take a deep breath, and enjoy the clean-smelling air!

Did You Know?
You can peel onions under cold water, or refrigerate or freeze them before chopping to prevent ‘crying.’