If you’ve ever hired a pest control company to get rid of unwanted critters from your home or used one of those insecticides you purchased from the store, you know the tell-tale smell of their chemicals.
While this scent may help eliminate pests, it can also be overwhelming and linger for days. Not only is it irritating to the nose, but having the same odor linger in your home for days can be headache-inducing.
There are different ways to get rid of the nasty pest control smell, but one of the most effective ways is to ensure that the air ventilates properly.
Ventilation is key – all you need to do is open the windows and doors and let the air come in for about 30 minutes. This will help to air out the treated area and get rid of the smell.
Don’t fret – this is normal, and most of the time, the smell will dissipate on its own with proper ventilation.
If you can’t seem to get rid of the smell or you don’t want to wait for it to go away on its own, there are a few other things you can do, which we’ll talk about later in this post.
What Does the Smell Linger After Pest Control is Done?
The sharp, acrid smell that makes your eyes water and throat burn usually comes from the chemicals used in pesticides and insecticides.
When these chemicals are sprayed, they leave behind a residue that can be difficult to remove. This potent mix of chemicals (among other ingredients) gives off that potent smell.
While the chemicals used in pest control are safe when used as directed, they can be harmful if inhaled in large amounts.
They’re specifically made to target those nasty pests you have hiding in your home.
This is why most pest control companies recommend that you vacate the premises during the treatment and not return until the chemicals have had time to settle.
How Long Does the Smell Linger?
It depends on the kind of treatment applied. As a general rule of thumb, if you can smell it, there are still chemicals in the air.
Some store-bought treatments have scents that may last for a few hours to days, while professionally applied treatments usually take a day or two to dissipate.
Again, it all depends on the kind of chemicals used and the application process.
Don’t worry, though! There are a few things you can do to speed up the process. What can you do to get rid of this noxious smell? We’ve compiled a list of tips from the pros to help you eliminate the pest control smell from your home for good.
Related Articles: Do You Have to Leave the House for Pest Control?
Different Methods to Get Rid of the Pest Control Smell from Your House
It’s nauseating and head-inducing. While we have the peace of mind that our home is now one step away from being critter-free, we still have to deal with the after-effects of the treatment.
The good news is that there are a few things you can do to get rid of the smell:
Method #1: Air Out the Area
The first step to getting rid of the pest control smell is to air out the area. Open all the windows and doors and let fresh air circulate. If it’s a nice day, you can even set up some fans to help move the air around.
This will help to dissipate the fumes and should get rid of most of the smell. Keeping the house closed up will only trap the fumes inside, making it harder to get rid of the smell.
Method #2: Clean the Treated Area
The next step is to clean the treated area. This will help remove any residue that may be left behind and will also help to get rid of the smell.
You can do this by either wiping down the area with a damp cloth or vacuuming. If you vacuum, make sure to dispose of the bag afterward.
Method #3: Use Baking Soda
Did you know that baking soda is a great way to get rid of smells? It’s true! Baking soda is a natural absorbent and will help to neutralize the odor.
All you need to do is sprinkle some baking soda on the affected area and let it sit for a few hours. Then, vacuum it up, and most of the time, this method does the trick!
Method #4: Use Charcoal
If baking soda didn’t do the trick and you’re still trying to find ways to get rid of that pesky pest control smell from your home, charcoal may be the answer.
Charcoal is known for its ability to absorb odors, so it can help to remove the unpleasant smell of pest control products from your home.
To use charcoal, simply place it in an open container in the affected area. You may need to experiment with the amount of charcoal you use and the length of time you leave it in place to find the best results.
Method #5: Use a Dehumidifier
If you live in a humid area, using a dehumidifier can help eliminate the pest control smell by removing the moisture from the air. A dehumidifier can be an excellent tool for getting rid of that pesky pest control smell.
Dehumidifiers work by removing the moisture from the air, which some of the chemicals used in pest control products can cling to. This will help to remove the smell and make your home more comfortable.
How to Mask the Smell After a Pest Control Treatment
If for any reason, the smell still won’t go away or you just can’t stand it, there are a few things you can do to mask the smell.
Method #1: Air Fresheners
One way to mask the smell of pest control is to use air fresheners. You can find air fresheners at most stores, and they come in a variety of scents.
Simply spray the air freshener in the affected area, and the smell should be gone in no time.
Method #2: Scented Candles
After a long day of work, there’s nothing better than coming home to a candlelit room. The soft light, and soothing scent can help you relax and unwind after a long day.
But did you know that candles can also be used to mask odors? If you’re concerned about the smell of your pest control treatment, try lighting a scented candle.
The fragrance will help mask the scent of the chemicals, and the flickering flame will create a relaxing atmosphere. Just keep an eye on the candle, and don’t leave it unattended.
Method #3: Diffuse Essential Oils
Essential oils can help to neutralize the smell of the chemicals and make your home smell fresh and inviting. Simply add a few drops of oil to a diffuser and let it run for 30 minutes.
You can also try incorporating essential oils into your cleaning routine. Add a few drops of lemon, pine, or peppermint essential oil to your mop water or carpet shampooer for an extra boost of freshness.
Method #4: Potpourri
Potpourri is a great way to add a touch of fragrance to your home, and it is a tried and true method when it comes to masking the smell after a pest control treatment.
Simply simmer a pot of water on the stove, adding in a handful of your favorite dried herbs. Rosemary, lavender, and mint work well together and can help to neutralize the smell of chemicals.
You can also try adding a few drops of essential oil to the pot for an extra boost of fragrance.
Final Thoughts
Pest control treatments are most often needed in the spring and summer months, when pests are most active.
But that doesn’t mean you have to put up with the lingering smell of chemicals in your home. By making sure that the treated area has good ventilation, the smell will start to dissipate.
Additional methods may include using charcoal or baking soda on the area, or masking the smell with either artificial or natural fragrances.
