How to Deal With Smells Left Behind by Guests

No matter how clean your Airbnb looks, if it smells off—guests will notice. Whether it’s food, pets, body odour, smoke, or something worse, lingering smells can quickly ruin a guest’s first impression and lead to negative reviews.

Here’s a practical guide on how to remove bad smells from Airbnb properties, especially after tough guests or long stays.

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Why Smells Linger in Airbnb Properties

Even after a standard clean, smells can linger in:

• Fabric (sofas, curtains, bedding)

• Bins and drains

• Air conditioners or fans

• Kitchens with strong cooking odours

• Carpets and rugs

• Bathrooms with poor airflow

Smells build over time or settle in hidden places. That’s why a clean look doesn’t always mean a fresh scent.

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Step 1: Air Out the Property

Start here before anything else:

• Open all windows and doors

• Turn on ceiling and exhaust fans

• Let natural airflow run for at least 15 minutes

• If possible, prop open wardrobe doors and drawers too

Tip: Ventilation is the cheapest, most effective first step—and it works immediately.

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Step 2: Find the Source

Don’t just mask the smell—track it down. Common culprits:

• Damp towels left in the laundry

• Forgotten food in the fridge or pantry

• Rubbish under beds or in bins

• Smoking in rooms or balconies

• Dirty filters in the air con

• Spills or crumbs in sofa cushions

Tip: Get close—sniff near soft furnishings, corners, bins, and drains.

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Step 3: Deep Clean the Right Zones

Once you find the likely source, clean thoroughly.

Kitchen

• Wipe inside fridge, microwave, oven, and bins

• Scrub the sink and drains with baking soda and vinegar

• Take out all rubbish and disinfect bins

Bathroom

• Use anti-mould spray on grout and drains

• Clean toilet base and back

• Replace damp mats or towels

Bedroom & Living Areas

• Remove and wash all linen

• Vacuum and deodorise rugs and carpet

• Use fabric spray or baking soda on upholstery

• Wipe window tracks and sills

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Step 4: Neutralise, Don’t Just Mask

Avoid strong air fresheners. Instead:

• Use baking soda on carpet or fabric for 1 hour before vacuuming

• Simmer lemon or cinnamon on the stove briefly

• Place bowls of vinegar or coffee grounds overnight to absorb odours

• Use eucalyptus or tea tree oil in a diffuser for a natural, fresh smell

Tip: Smells like bleach or heavy fragrance can backfire and seem like you’re covering something up.

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Step 5: Wash or Replace These Often

Some items trap smells and need regular refresh:

• Pillow inserts

• Mattress protectors

• Tea towels and sponges

• Couch throws

• Curtain sheers

• Bathroom mats

• Rubbish bins

Mi Casa’s AirBnB Cleaning Gold Coast team can rotate and manage these extras for you during deeper or seasonal cleans.

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Step 6: Address Pet, Smoke or Food Smells Separately

Pet Smells

• Vacuum rugs, furniture, and pet-friendly zones thoroughly

• Use enzyme sprays to break down pet odours

• Replace any soft items used by animals

Smoke

• Clean walls with sugar soap or vinegar spray

• Wash all linen, curtains, and couch cushions

• Replace air conditioning filters

Food Odours

• Clear and disinfect bins

• Wipe all cooking surfaces

• Check for drips or spills inside cabinets or under appliances

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Step 7: Prevent Future Smells

Don’t wait for guests to leave bad odours. Instead:

• Leave windows open for a few hours between bookings

• Use mild, pleasant deodorisers in soft furnishings

• Replace vacuum bags or filters regularly

• Schedule a professional deep clean monthly

• Provide clear rubbish instructions for guests

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Conclusion

A clean-looking space isn’t enough—guests need it to smell clean too. That’s why knowing how to remove bad smells from Airbnb properties is just as important as wiping surfaces and changing linen.

If you’re tired of playing scent detective, let Mi Casa Cleaning Solutions handle it. Our AirBnB Cleaning Gold Coast service includes full deodorising, odour source removal, and smart strategies to keep your listing fresh—even after the toughest guests.

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FAQ