Say goodbye to lingering food smells this Christmas! In this blog post, discover expert tips to refresh your home and tackle stubborn kitchen odours, keeping it clean and inviting all season long.

1. Simmer a Festive Fragrance

Create a warm and inviting scent in your home by simmering a pot of water with festive ingredients.

Add a mix of cinnamon sticks, orange peel, cloves, and a splash of vanilla extract to a saucepan of water, and let it gently simmer on the hob. The heat will release a warm, spicy aroma that will overpower any lingering food smells.

Alternatively, make some mulled wine, enjoy a drink, and let this festive smell fill your home.

2. Use Natural Odour Absorbers

Baking soda is a fantastic, natural odour neutraliser.

Simply place a small bowl of baking soda near the source of the smell, such as the kitchen or dining area, and let it absorb the odours. Similarly, use white vinegar – its natural acidity helps neutralise strong smells. Place a bowl of vinegar on the counter overnight, and you’ll wake up to a fresher-smelling home.

3. Light Candles or Use Diffusers

Scented candles or essential oil diffusers can help mask unwanted food smells with more pleasant fragrances and make your home smell all Christmassy!

If using a diffuser, consider adding essential oils like eucalyptus, lemon, or peppermint to cleanse the air naturally.

4. Clean as You Cook

One of the best ways to minimise odours is to tackle them at the source. Clean your pots, pans, and cooking utensils as soon as possible after use.

Wipe down surfaces, focusing on any splashes or spills that could contribute to lingering smells.

5. Deodorise Your Bin

Bins can quickly become the source of unpleasant smells, especially after a big Christmas dinner.

Make sure to empty the bin regularly during the festive period. You can also sprinkle some baking soda at the bottom of the bin, purchase ‘Bin Buddy’ powder, or use bin liners with built-in odour control for extra freshness.

6. Call in a Professional Upholstery Cleaner

Soft furnishings, such as curtains, cushions, and upholstery, can trap cooking smells over time.

You can call ServiceMaster Clean and speak to their cleaning experts on 0800 021 3073, or find your local ServiceMaster Clean here.

7. Clean Your Oven and Extractor Fan

Cooking residues in your oven or grease build-up in your extractor fan can contribute to persistent food smells.

Give your oven a good clean using a natural mixture of baking soda and vinegar, and check your extractor fan filters as these might need washing or replacing.

8. Boil Lemon Water

Lemons are a natural deodoriser and can cut through food smells.

Slice a couple of lemons and place them in a saucepan of water. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

The citrusy steam will help neutralise food smells and leave your home smelling clean and lemony fresh.

9. Use Fresh Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds are also excellent for absorbing odours.

Place a small bowl of used coffee grounds in areas prone to strong food smells, such as near the kitchen sink or on the dining table, to help neutralise the air.

Don’t let lingering food odours dampen your Christmas spirit. With these simple tips, you can maintain a fresh and cosy atmosphere in your home, ready to welcome friends and family with festive cheer. For expert help in keeping your home pristine, get in touch with Merry Maids today

You can give us a call and speak to our cleaning experts on 0800 021 3072, or find your local Merry Maids UK here.