Let’s be honest: there are few smells as universally awful as vomit. And even worse, that puke smell has a way of sticking around long after you’ve cleaned up the mess.
Beyond just being unpleasant, lingering vomit can also harbor bacteria and germs, making it important to fully eliminate the odor and disinfect the affected area.
This guide provides a step-by-step approach, along with home remedies and preventative tips, to effectively remove vomit smells from various surfaces. If you want to know how to get rid of puke smell, you’ve come to the right place.
What makes vomit smell so bad?
If you’ve ever wondered why puke smells so awful, here’s a look at the science behind that gag-inducing odor.
The composition of vomit
Vomit gets its distinctive and disgusting smell from a combination of factors:
- Gastric acid. Gastric acid is a major contributor to the sharp, chemical smell.
- Food particles. Partially digested or undigested food adds to the odor, and certain foods like garlic and onions can make the smell even worse.
- Enzymes and bacteria. Biological factors, like enzymes and bacteria, further contribute to the revolting smell.
Together, this potent mix creates a smell that’s hard to forget — and even harder to get rid of!
Factors affecting odor intensity
The strength of the odor can depend on a few things:
- What you ate. Certain foods, like garlic and onions, create a stronger smell.
- Your stomach acid. Everyone’s stomach acid is a little different, and variations in acidity levels can affect the odor.
- Your sensitivity. Everyone perceives smells differently.
- Storage conditions. Dampness and humidity can make the odor worse.
Act fast to minimize the damage
The faster you act, the less likely you are to have lingering smells and stains.
Here’s what you need to do right away:
- Gear up. Put on some disposable gloves to protect yourself. You might also want to wear a face mask.
- Soak it up. Grab some paper towels or kitchen towels. You can also use baking soda to absorb the mess.
- Blot, don’t rub. Gently press the absorbent material onto the puke. Rubbing will only spread the mess and grind it into the surface.
Cleaning Vomit from Different Surfaces: Specific Approaches
Cleaning up vomit can be a little different depending on what surface you’re dealing with. Here’s a breakdown of how to tackle the mess on clothes, mattresses, and upholstery.
Cleaning Vomit from Clothes
- Pre-treat the stain. Dab a little vinegar, baking soda paste, or mild dish soap onto the affected area before washing.
- Choose the right detergent. Be sure to use a detergent that’s safe for the type of fabric you’re dealing with. For example, you can use a standard detergent for cotton, but you may need a special detergent for delicate materials.
- Wash using the hottest water that’s safe for the garment. Hot water can help kill lingering bacteria.
- Eliminate any lingering odors. Airing your clothes outside can work wonders. You can also try adding a little vinegar to the rinse cycle, or even a few drops of your favorite essential oil.
Cleaning Vomit from Mattresses
- Pre-clean. Remove any solid matter before you start trying to clean the stain.
- Use an enzyme cleaner. Enzyme cleaners are made to break down organic stains. Follow the instructions on the bottle to give the cleaner enough dwell time to work.
- Sprinkle baking soda to neutralize odors. Let the baking soda sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up.
- Mix vinegar with water. Spray or dab the mixture onto the affected area, then blot with a clean cloth.
- Try hydrogen peroxide for stubborn stains. Mix 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide with 3 tablespoons of baking soda and a few drops of mild dish soap. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then blot with a clean cloth.
Cleaning Vomit from Sofas and Upholstery
- Use a mild cleaning solution. Warm water mixed with a small amount of mild detergent usually works well.
- Rinse and dry. After you’ve cleaned the stain, rinse the area thoroughly to remove any residue from the cleaning agent. Then, use a dry cloth to absorb as much moisture as possible. This will help prevent mildew.
- Test cleaning agents first. Before you start cleaning, test your cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area to make sure it doesn’t damage or discolor the fabric.
- Wash removable covers. If your sofa has removable covers, check the care label for washing instructions. Experts recommend cleaning them every six to twelve months, or more often if needed.
Home Remedies for Vomit Odor Removal
If you’re dealing with the lingering smell of vomit, don’t despair. Several common household items can help neutralize the odor and freshen up your space.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a champion odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected area, making sure to cover it completely. Let it sit for several hours, or even overnight, to allow it to absorb the odors. Then, vacuum up the baking soda. You may need to repeat this process for stubborn smells.
Vinegar
The acidity of vinegar helps neutralize alkaline odors, like those found in vomit. Dilute white vinegar with water in a spray bottle (a 1:1 ratio works well). Lightly spray or dab the solution onto the affected area. Be sure not to saturate the surface. Let it air dry completely. The vinegar smell will dissipate as it dries, taking the vomit odor with it.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural deodorizer that can mask and neutralize unpleasant smells. Apply lemon juice directly to the affected area. The sunlight can enhance its deodorizing effect, so if possible, open windows or place the item in direct sunlight after applying the lemon juice.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is another excellent odor absorber. Place bowls or containers filled with activated charcoal near the affected area. For upholstery or carpets, you can sprinkle activated charcoal directly onto the surface, let it sit overnight, and then vacuum it up.
Coffee Grounds
Dry coffee grounds can absorb and replace unpleasant smells. Spread dry coffee grounds on the affected area and let them sit for several hours before vacuuming them up. This can be particularly effective for lingering odors on carpets or upholstery.
Professional Cleaning Agents: When and How to Use Them
Sometimes, DIY methods just don’t cut it, especially when you’re dealing with stubborn odors or delicate surfaces. That’s when it’s time to consider professional cleaning agents.
Enzyme Cleaners
These cleaners work by breaking down the organic matter that’s causing the smell, making them a great choice for vomit, which is definitely organic. Be sure to follow the product instructions closely, and ventilate the area well. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves while you’re cleaning.
Chemical Cleaning Agents
There are a variety of chemical cleaning agents available, so you’ll want to find one that’s formulated for vomit stains. Whatever product you choose, be sure to protect your skin and eyes, and ventilate the area. Professional cleaning agents should be used with caution, following instructions and safety precautions, especially regarding ventilation, gloves, and eye protection. Dilute the cleaner as directed, and apply it carefully. Keep in mind that these cleaners can damage some surfaces and may be hazardous to your health if not used properly.
Professional Laundry Services
If you’re dealing with vomit-soaked clothing or bedding, you might want to consider outsourcing the job to a professional laundry service. They have the expertise and equipment to remove even the most stubborn stains and odors. Of course, this option will cost you more, so you’ll have to weigh the benefits against the expense.
Preventive Measures: Avoiding Future Vomit Smells
Cleaning up vomit is nobody’s favorite chore, so here are some things you can do to prevent it from happening again.
Protective Covers and Liners
If you have kids or pets (or are prone to motion sickness yourself), you might want to think about investing in some protective covers for your furniture.
- Sofas and mattresses: A simple, washable slipcover can save your sofa from a lot of stains.
- Waterproof options: These are great for preventing liquids from soaking into your furniture.
- Washable covers: Easy to clean and maintain.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
A little regular maintenance can go a long way in keeping your home fresh and clean.
- Vacuuming: Get those loose particles and dust up before they become a bigger problem. Vacuuming the sofa once a week can help.
- Immediate stain removal: The faster you address a spill, the better.
- Airing out rooms: Open those windows and get some fresh air circulating!
Lifestyle Adjustments
Sometimes, a few simple changes in your habits can make a big difference.
- Avoiding food and drinks on furniture: Maybe it’s time to designate the sofa as a no-snack zone.
- Managing motion sickness: If you’re prone to car sickness, plan ahead with medication or other remedies.
- Monitoring pet health: Keep an eye on your furry friends and take them to the vet if they seem unwell.
In Conclusion
Getting rid of the smell of vomit requires quick action, thorough cleaning, and some preventative measures to keep the odor from returning. The faster you act, the easier it will be to banish the smell.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, stubborn odors linger. Don’t give up! Repeat the cleaning process or try a different method.
If you’re still struggling, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Professional cleaners have specialized equipment and products that can eliminate even the most persistent odors. For clothing and linens, consider using a professional laundry service like Clotheslyne. They have the expertise and resources to get your items smelling fresh and clean again.