Before you list, follow these quick steps to make your home smell clean, inviting, and ready to impress buyers.
Does your home have that “old house” smell you just can’t get rid of? You’re not alone. Many older homes around Louisville have a familiar musty scent that hits the second you walk through the door. It might remind you of basements, attics, or even that “something’s hiding in the walls” feeling. The good news? That smell isn’t permanent.
Here are 4 easy steps to make your home smell clean, fresh, and welcoming again.
Step 1: Identify the source of the smell. Before you grab air fresheners or candles, start by finding the real source of the smell. In many older Louisville homes, odors come from hidden spots like carpet padding, crawl spaces, ductwork, or even old paint. Take time to check each room. Smell the walls, peek in the basement, and check vents. Once you find where it’s coming from, you can fix the problem instead of just covering it up.
Step 2: Deep clean with the right products. Now that you’ve found the source, it’s time for a deep clean. Skip the sprays and plug-ins, as they only mask smells for a short time. Instead, use special cleaning tools that really work. Enzyme-based cleaners break down organic odors, such as pet messes. Baking soda and vinegar help with mildew. Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum to remove dust and allergens. If old curtains or carpets are still holding onto smells, it may be time to discard them.
“Living in an older home doesn’t mean living with old smells.”
Step 3: Use deodorizing and purification tricks. Once things are clean, it’s time to freshen the air. You can rent or buy ozone machines for serious odor removal, and make sure to follow safety directions. For smaller jobs, try activated charcoal bags in closets or crawl spaces, or air purifiers with carbon filters. And don’t forget to open the windows! Allowing fresh air to circulate for a few hours each day can make a significant difference.
Step 4: Seal and repaint for lasting freshness. After you’ve cleaned and aired everything out, seal it all in. Paint or seal porous surfaces like walls, floors, and wood paneling with a special odor-blocking primer. Then repaint. This keeps any leftover smells locked out for good and gives your home a bright, new look that buyers will love if you’re planning to sell.
Enjoy your fresh Louisville home. Living in an older home doesn’t mean living with old smells. With a little effort and the right cleaning plan, you can enjoy your home’s charm without the odor. Whether you’re getting ready to list your home or just want it to smell clean again, these simple steps can make your space feel fresh and comfortable for years to come.
Ready to make your Louisville home smell fresh again? If you need help finding trusted local cleaners or advice on preparing your home for the market, reach out to me and my team today. Call/text me at 502-376-5483 or email me at bob@weselllouisville.com, and together, let’s prepare your home for listing.
