Unpleasant smells can remain in a property even when it looks perfectly clean. This is because odours are often absorbed by materials rather than simply sitting on surfaces.
Carpets, rugs, curtains, mattresses and upholstered furniture can all retain smells from pets, cooking, smoking and general occupancy.
Find the source first
The first step is identifying the source of the smell. Simply spraying air freshener may temporarily mask an odour, but it will not solve the underlying problem.
Kitchens are a common source. Food residue, bins, refrigerators, ovens, extractor filters and drains can all produce lingering smells. Bathrooms may develop odours from drains, damp areas or inadequate ventilation.
Do not overlook the carpets
Carpets can also be a significant culprit. Vacuuming removes surface dirt but does not necessarily remove contaminants or odours trapped deeper within the fibres. In these situations, professional carpet cleaning can make a considerable difference.
For properties that have been vacant for some time, ventilation is equally important. Opening windows and allowing fresh air to circulate while cleaning can help remove stale odours.
Persistent damp or musty smells should not simply be covered up. They may indicate an underlying moisture or mould problem that needs further investigation.
Nova tip: A genuinely clean property should smell neutral and fresh, not overwhelmingly of cleaning chemicals or fragrance.
Frequently asked questions
- Why does my house smell even though it looks clean?
- Odours are absorbed by soft materials such as carpets, curtains, mattresses and upholstery, so a property can look spotless while still holding smells that only deeper cleaning will remove.
- What does a musty smell in a property mean?
- A persistent musty smell often points to moisture or mould rather than dirt. It should be investigated rather than masked with fragrance.
Want this handled by professionals?
Nova Cleaning Solutions covers London, Surrey, West Sussex and East Sussex. Fully insured teams, clear pricing and a standard built for inventory inspections.
