Guide to reducing microplastics in laundry through fabric selection and washer settings.
Share
Q. My New Year’s resolution is to stop smoking. But how can I make my rugs, furniture and draperies stop smelling like cigarettes?
A. Start from the top and work your way down cleaning smoke from your home, cleaning more than once if necessary and consider bringing in professional help as needed. From clothes to furniture, smoke can permeate surfaces and the odor and discoloration can be hard to dislodge, especially if they’ve been accumulating for a while. Here are some helpful hints for removing tobacco odors and stains:
Windows – Start by airing out the house! Turn on the fans and keep the windows open. Then use window cleaner to remove any residue from the glass. And be sure to clean blinds and wash curtains.
Walls – This can be one of the biggest places where odors are absorbed. Wash with a sponge or clean microfiber cloth and an all-purpose cleaner, trying on an inconspicuous corner first to make sure the cleaner does not damage the paint. If that doesn’t work, your best bet may be to apply a sealant and then repaint.
Lighting - Clean lampshades with soap and water, then let dry before putting back. Don't forget to clean the light bulbs when they are cool. They not only attract smoke, but every time they are turned on, the heat releases the smoke odor back into the air.
Furniture and Appliances – Remove any furniture covers you can to put in the laundry and vacuum what cannot be removed. A furniture cleaner can also be helpful here. Smooth surfaces, such as mirrors, floors and wood furniture, are repositories for smoke residue. Use a surface-appropriate cleaner to get rid of the residue. Spray fabric freshener on all the fabric surfaces.
Floors – Vacuum the floors. Then sprinkle with a dry floor cleaner or baking soda and vacuum again. Mop floors without carpeting.
Clothes and Fabrics – Launder anything that can be safely run through the washer and dryer or hand wash. Take things that can’t be washed to a dry cleaner. Include blankets, pillows and any other fabrics that can be cleaned.
If your efforts are not successful at first, subsequent washes may prove more helpful. There are also professional cleaners that specialize in smoke odor removal.
Updated: July 23, 2026