Get Rid of Home Odors Using Vanilla Extract

Whether you want to remove cooking or foul odors from your home, using regular vanilla extract and an oven safe skillet will get the job done simply and quickly. This method is also suitable for simply adding another layer of scent to your home, one reminiscent of freshly baked cookies.

Steps

  1. Find an oven-safe pan or dish. Alternatively, use an oven-safe coffee mug or similar heatproof container. Turn your oven to 300ºF/150ºC.
    • You don’t want to actually cook the vanilla, just warm it, so if your oven runs hot, decrease the temperature to 275ºF/140ºC.
    • Do not use a non-stick pan as the odors might be compromised by the chemical make-up of the non-stick surface and you may not get the true essence of the vanilla. You want the aroma of the vanilla to permeate the cooking device, which will translate over to your home. Prefer ceramic, terracotta, glass, etc. style containers.
  2. Re-arrange the oven racks so that you can place the pan or cup of vanilla on the middle rack. This way the extract won’t burn or scorch.
  3. Pour two capfuls or two tablespoons of vanilla into the pan or cup. Using good quality vanilla extract will help bring out more aroma.
    • Lace the vanilla extract with a few vanilla bean pods to enhance the scent. The beans will support the extract and give the vanilla a more sugary aroma.
  4. Bake the vanilla in the oven for up to 20 minutes or until the odor has left the building.
    • If the vanilla smell seems a bit on the strong side, open a few windows and allow the breeze to diffuse the fragrance.
    • Set the kitchen timer so you don’t forget the vanilla is in the oven. Twenty minutes is usually adequate to refresh the home. Setting the timer will remind you to turn off the heat and remove the pan from the oven or stovetop.
  5. Consider reinforcing the vanilla smell if your home smells particularly funky. Pour two tablespoons of vanilla into a pan and cook the vanilla at low heat on your stovetop. As with the oven method, only cook for about 20 minutes and set the timer to remind you to remove it.

Tips

  • If you aren’t such a big fan of vanilla, consider trying this method with other scents or extracts such as peppermint, orange, almond or coconut.
  • Create your own concoctions and experiment with different mixtures. For example, you could combine freshly ground cinnamon, cinnamon sticks and orange extract for a spicy smell.
  • Burn the extract in electric potpourri oil warmers, which can run throughout the day without posing a fire hazard.

Warnings

  • Only cook the vanilla when you are home. Never allow it to simmer in the oven or on the stovetop without supervision.

Things You'll Need

  • Heatproof oven dish or cup
  • Stovetop pan (optional)
  • Vanilla extract (good quality, avoid the artificial form)
  • Dropper or pipette (optional)
  • Timer

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