Living in an apartment community has many advantages, such as a network of friends and neighbors, but being in close quarters also has its drawbacks. Apartment buildings can harbor odors — cooking, pets, smoke from cigarettes and other sources (though most apartment communities are now smoke-free), unwanted fragrance, and general funk (trash, filth). In extreme cases, odors can become overwhelming. One way to be a good neighbor is to make sure that your apartment isn’t emitting any unpleasant odor. You may not even be aware that your apartment smells bad; it’s like that TV commercial that talks about being “nose blind.”
Here are tips for keeping your apartment smelling fresh year-round:
Keep it Clean
Regularly clean your apartment, including wiping down and disinfecting all surfaces that may harbor bacteria, germs, and odors (kitchen counters, floors, sinks, toilets, bathroom vanity, and tub/shower areas).
Clean and vacuum all soft surfaces (carpets, bedding, curtains, upholstery, pillows, and throws). If necessary, rent a carpet cleaner and invest in spray products that remove odors from soft furnishings.
Take Out the Trash Regularly
Trash accumulating in a garbage bag or waste basket can quickly start to smell. That’s why it’s important to take out the trash every few days, especially during warm, humid months.
Open Windows
Open your windows and balcony or patio door, and turn on the ceiling fan to circulate fresh air.
Clean Up After Your Pets
If your dog or cat has an accident, clean it up immediately and use odor-neutralizing products to eliminate the smell. Keep your dog bathed, and if you have a cat, keep the litterbox scooped and regularly cleaned. Brushing both cats and dogs can eliminate pet hair and dander, which can cause odor.
Keep Up With Your Laundry
Don’t let the laundry basket overflow with sweaty gym clothes and damp towels. Not only do they smell bad, but moisture can breed odor-causing bacteria.
Tone Down The Fragrance
This may sound counterintuitive, but if you regularly burn scented candles, wax melts, or incense, make sure it isn’t overpowering. If you’re not sure, step out in the hall and close the door to your apartment. Walk to the end of the hallway and check to see if you can smell any scent emitting from your apartment. If you can smell fragrance from a distance, then it’s too strong. Stick to lighter scents. That way, you can still enjoy your scented products but not overwhelm your neighbors.
With common sense and sticking to a housecleaning routine, you can reduce the prospect of having a stinky apartment. If you don’t like to clean, hire someone else to do it. A clean apartment can also mitigate any allergy or respiratory symptoms you may experience. You’ll feel better and breathe easier, and your neighbors will appreciate your efforts.
Explore a Vision Community Apartment
At Vision Communities, we create great communities where you can put down roots and live your best life. Our property management staff is here to manage all of the details that make this a great place to live. Our spacious studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom apartment layouts provide cozy space. Check out our luxurious apartment floor plans in one of our communities and enjoy life at the VC.
Schedule a tour today and see why Vision Communities is a great place to live.