Returning home to an unpleasant smell? Easy ways to get rid of it

Many people have travelled home for the Eid holidays. A musty smell often accumulates in rooms left closed for several days. While market air fresheners can quickly eliminate the odour, they can be risky for children and the elderly. Those with allergies are also advised to avoid artificial fragrances. The alternative lies in common kitchen ingredients that can naturally remove unpleasant odours.

Lemon and cloves
Cut a lemon in half and insert a few cloves into it. Place it in your living room, kitchen or bathroom. The tangy scent of lemon combined with the strong aroma of cloves creates an excellent natural air freshener.

Orange peels
Do not discard orange peels; put them to use. You can boil orange peels in water to create a natural fragrant solution. Allow the water to cool, pour it into a spray bottle, and spritz it around the room. Alternatively, dry the peels in the sun, tie them in a cloth bundle, and place them on a shelf to absorb odours.

Cinnamon and clove water
Boil a few cinnamon sticks and cloves in a pot of water. The pleasant aroma will spread throughout the house, helping to eliminate stale odours.

Baking soda
Baking soda is not just for cooking; it is also highly effective at removing odours. Sprinkle some baking soda in dustbins, shoe racks or any other areas prone to bad smells. It will absorb the unwanted odours.

Coffee beans
Who does not enjoy the scent of coffee? Place some coffee beans in a small bowl in your living room or kitchen. They will release a pleasant, inviting aroma.

Neem leaf smoke
If your home suffers from mosquitoes or insects along with a slight musty smell, try burning dried neem leaves. The smoke will help reduce odours and purify the air.