How to Get Smoke Smells and Damages out of Your Carpets

You may have heard of secondhand smoke, but researchers are studying a new concept: thirdhand smoke. Thirdhand smoke includes any tobacco residue that is on a home's walls, upholstery, furniture, carpets, etc. If your home isn't adequately cleaned, thirdhand smoke can build up and potentially be dangerous like secondhand smoke.

Carpets are a hotbed for thirdhand smoke since tobacco residue can fall and become imbedded in carpet fibers. This residue is also dangerous for young children and babies since they crawl around and play on the carpets.

Besides being a health hazard, smoke smells and damages can cost you a portion of a security deposit in a rental. Even if the issue wasn't caused by you, it's your responsibility as a tenant to maintain your space. If you aren't renting, smoke smells and damages can reduce your home's value and make it that much harder to sell if potential buyers don't smoke themselves.

Thankfully, many DIY options and professional services are at your disposal. Here are some tips to tackle smoking issues.

You can sprinkle an absorbent powder from your pantry, like baking soda or cornstarch, on smoke stains. Use a scrub brush to spread this powder into the carpet fibers. If the stain is light, you may only need to let the powder set for a few hours to a day. If the stain is very deep, some people let the absorbent substance sink into the carpet fibers for a few days. The powder will help to absorb smells.

Once the absorbent substance is done setting, use a vacuum to suck it up. Ask your carpeting manufacturer about which dry-cleaning solvents would be safe to use on your flooring. Once you know which product is safe for your carpet, use a rag to blot deep stains and let it dry.

Ideally, you should use an ash tray to dispose of cigarettes instead of letting the butts fall to the floor. If your carpet does have a burn, use some sandpaper on the damage to slough off charred fibers. You may need to use scissors to cut severely burnt fibers. Once you’ve trimmed the fibers, use a vacuum on the area.

Some homeowners use a mix of water and hydrogen peroxide to blot burn marks, but again, be sure to ask your carpet manufacturer if this is safe before trying it out.

While DIY methods can help a lot, smoke is notorious for lingering around. If you currently smoke or have lots of smoke residue in your carpets, contact a professional for carpet cleaning. Unlike DIY methods, professional cleaners use steam-cleaning machines that can penetrate fibers to eliminate odors and loosen engrained residue.

Not only will you be able to eliminate smoky smells, but you'll reduce the risk of thirdhand smoke. Professional cleaning is imperative if anyone in your household has allergies or asthma, as smoke residue can cause symptom flare-ups.

To make the most of these professional cleanings, start having friends or family members smoke outside. If you need to smoke inside, open windows and use fans to circulate the air. Contact All State Carpet & Tile Care to schedule regular carpet cleanings.