Question from Colleen
Hi Lisa,
Has anyone successfully moved into a house where the previous tenants used scented detergents and dryer sheets in the house. I was under the assumption that the fragrances got into the insulation in the walls, etc. How long did it take to outgass if ever? Would a “bake out” even take care of it?
Lisa’s Answer
Debra interviewed Daliya Robson from Nirvana Safe Haven and they discussed a number of ways to eliminate odors (click here for transcript).
I would first try some low-cost options like zeolite or charcoal to try to absorb the odors. As a next step I would try the “bake out”, which has proven successful for many situations. If neither of those work, you might try some of the products mentioned in the interview. Finally, a good air purifier can be very effective. While it is an investment, you will have it for many years to help reduce toxins in your home. There are many sealers on the market that are great for reducing formaldehyde, but I have read that they do not always reduce odors, particularly if they are organic.
Has anyone else had success minimizing these types of odors?
I don’t think those scents can get into the insulation. I moved into a house with the smell of fabric softeners. We painted the entire inside with ECOS paint. We ripped out all carpet and anything that could absorb the smell. We even ripped out bathroom vanities and replaced with pedestal sinks. This was the only way for me to move in here, safely. Spray vinegar all over the house too. And yes, buy an air purifier. We have the IQAIR MULTIGAS which removes VOCS. Cannot live without this. If this is not in your budget, we also have the Austin Healthmate +