Odor Removal Services - Detection and Eradication Checklist

Unpleasant odors can quickly become a pain—whether at home or in a business setting. From lingering cigarette smoke and fire damage to mold, mildew, or animal urine, these odors don’t just stay on the surface. They penetrate walls, flooring, and furniture, making them difficult to remove without the right expertise. More importantly, the source of the odor may pose health risks if left untreated. That’s why identifying and addressing the root cause is the first and most critical step toward truly eliminating odors and restoring a safe, fresh environment.

To help make the process easier, we’ve created an odor detection checklist you can walk through before calling for professional help. This step-by-step guide helps you narrow down possible sources, assess the severity of the odor, and determine when it’s time to bring in experts for safe and thorough remediation.

Odor Detection Checklist

Step 1: Initial Assessment

• Identify the odor type (rotten, chemical, moldy, sewage, musty, burning, etc.)

• Note when the odor appears (all the time, only when AC/heat runs, after rain, at night, etc.)

• Walk through each room and mark where the smell is strongest.

Step 2: Common Quick Checks

• Empty all trash bins and check for leaks or spills.

• Inspect sinks, tubs, and floor drains for clogs or dry P-traps (run water for 30 sec).

• Check refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines for spoiled food or mildew.

• Lift rugs or cushions and check for spills, pet accidents, or dampness.

Step 3: Hidden Sources

• Look under furniture and beds for forgotten food, spills, or pet messes.

• Inspect closets, gym bags, and shoes.

• Use a flashlight to check behind appliances.

• Check HVAC vents, filters, and ducts for dust, mold, or pests.

• Inspect ceilings, walls, and floors for water stains (possible hidden mold).

Step 4: Structural and Utility Check

• Go into the basement, attic, or crawlspace for moisture, mold, or dead animals.

• Sniff around windows/doors for dampness or leaks.

• Turn off appliances one at a time to check for electrical burning smells.

• If odor resembles gas, immediately ventilate area and call utility company.

Step 5: Tools and Extra Help

• Use a moisture meter to detect hidden leaks.

• Use a UV blacklight to reveal pet urine stains.

• Have a friend/family member do a “fresh nose” test (you may be nose-blind).

• Keep notes of times, locations, and conditions when odor appears.

• If unresolved, contact a professional (plumber, HVAC, pest control, or odor remediation service).

Odor Eradication Checklist

Unpleasant odors can sneak into every corner of your home or business—from garbage bins and drains to carpets, pets, and even your HVAC system. Left unchecked, they don’t just create discomfort; they can also signal hidden problems like mold, leaks, or poor ventilation. To help you tackle odors at the source and keep your space fresh and healthy, we’ve created this Odor Eradication Checklist. Use it as a step-by-step guide to identify, eliminate, and prevent the smells that disrupt your environment.

Garbage and Food Odors

• Empty trash daily and disinfect bins with bleach or enzyme cleaner.

• Sprinkle baking soda or cat litter in the bottom of trash cans.

• Clean refrigerator, freezer, and pantry; remove expired items.

• Run lemon slices or vinegar ice cubes through garbage disposal.

Sewer and Drain Odors

• Run water in unused sinks, tubs, and floor drains to refill dry P-traps.

• Pour a mix of baking soda + vinegar + hot water down drains.

• Use enzyme drain cleaners monthly to prevent buildup.

• Check toilet wax rings and plumbing seals for leaks.

Carpet, Upholstery and Fabric Odors

• Vacuum regularly and deep-clean carpets every 6–12 months.

• Sprinkle baking soda on carpets/upholstery, let sit, then vacuum.

• Wash curtains, throw blankets, and removable covers.

• Use enzyme cleaners for pet accidents.

Pet Odors

• Clean litter boxes daily and wash with mild disinfectant weekly.

• Bathe and groom pets regularly.

• Use UV blacklight to find hidden urine stains and treat with enzyme cleaner.

• Wash pet bedding weekly.

Air and HVAC Odors

• Replace HVAC filters every 1–3 months.

• Clean ducts and vents periodically.

• Run an air purifier with HEPA + activated carbon filter.

• Use dehumidifiers in damp areas to reduce musty odors.

Mold and Musty Odors

• Fix leaks and improve ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

• Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 50%.

• Scrub visible mold with vinegar or a mold cleaner.

• Remove and replace water-damaged drywall, carpet, or insulation.

Smoke and Cooking Odors

• Air out space by opening windows and using fans.

• Wipe walls, ceilings, and cabinets with vinegar solution.

• Wash fabrics (curtains, rugs, upholstery covers).

• Use activated charcoal or baking soda bowls to absorb odors.

• Professionally clean if heavy cigarette smoke buildup exists.

Chemical, Fuel, and Misc. Odors

• Safely store paints, solvents, and cleaning chemicals in sealed containers.

• Ventilate garages and storage areas.

• Dispose of expired cleaning supplies.

• If odor is electrical or gas-related, shut off source and call professionals immediately.