Moving into a new apartment in Accra can come with unpleasant odors from fresh paint, construction materials, new furniture, or previous tenants. If your apartment has a strong, stale, or chemical smell, this guide will show you how to remove odors and create a fresh living space quickly.
Before you remove smells, figure out where they are coming from.
✔ Fresh paint or varnish from walls and furniture.
✔ New wood, flooring, or carpet smells.
✔ Chemical odors from cleaning products used by the landlord.
✔ Stale air from a closed-up apartment with poor ventilation.
✔ Previous tenant odors (cooking, smoke, or pet smells).
Pro Tip: The source of the odor determines which cleaning method works best.
Letting fresh air in is the fastest way to remove trapped odors.
✔ Open all windows and doors for several hours daily.
✔ Use fans to push stale air out and bring fresh air in.
✔ Turn on exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom.
✔ Keep closet doors open to release trapped smells.
Pro Tip: If the apartment smells like fresh paint or chemicals, ventilate for at least 48 hours.
Instead of artificial sprays, use natural deodorizers to absorb smells.
✔ Baking Soda: Place bowls in different rooms to neutralize odors.
✔ Activated Charcoal: Absorbs strong smells from paint and construction.
✔ White Vinegar: Leave open bowls in smelly areas overnight.
✔ Coffee Grounds: Works well in the kitchen and fridge.
Pro Tip: Replace baking soda and charcoal every few days for the best results.
Even if the apartment looks clean, dust and chemicals can trap odors.
✔ Mop floors with vinegar and warm water to remove lingering smells.
✔ Wipe down walls, doors, and cabinets with a damp cloth and mild soap.
✔ Vacuum carpets and rugs to remove dust and hidden odors.
✔ Wash windows and mirrors to eliminate chemical residue.
Pro Tip: Steam cleaning carpets and upholstery removes deep-set odors.
Freshly painted walls and new construction materials release strong odors.
✔ Place bowls of vinegar or baking soda in each room to absorb fumes.
✔ Boil lemon peels and cinnamon in water to freshen the air.
✔ Use an air purifier with a carbon filter to remove VOCs (chemical fumes).
Pro Tip: If the smell is too strong, leave the apartment ventilated for a few days before moving in.
If the apartment was closed for a long time, it might have a stale odor.
✔ Use a dehumidifier or place charcoal in damp areas.
✔ Spray a mix of vinegar and water in corners and closets.
✔ Sun-dry curtains, cushions, and rugs before use.
✔ Mop with lemon or eucalyptus oil for a fresh scent.
Pro Tip: Check for hidden mold in bathrooms and cabinets if the smell persists.
If the apartment was previously occupied, it might still have food, smoke, or pet smells.
✔ Steam clean carpets and upholstery if they smell.
✔ Wash walls and surfaces with a vinegar solution.
✔ Change air filters and clean vents to remove trapped smells.
✔ Place activated charcoal near furniture and doors.
Pro Tip: If the apartment still smells like smoke, repainting the walls with an odor-blocking primer helps.
These areas trap odors easily, especially from old pipes and drains.
✔ Pour baking soda and vinegar down the drains, then rinse with hot water.
✔ Leave a bowl of coffee grounds in the fridge to absorb smells.
✔ Scrub the sink, tiles, and counters with lemon and baking soda.
✔ Keep garbage bins closed and empty them regularly.
Pro Tip: Check under the sink for leaks, as moisture can cause musty smells.
Once bad odors are gone, add fresh scents to your apartment.
✔ Lemon & Orange: Great for kitchen and bathroom freshness.
✔ Lavender: Calms the air and removes musty smells.
✔ Peppermint & Tea Tree: Work as natural deodorizers and insect repellents.
✔ Cinnamon & Vanilla: Create a warm and cozy atmosphere.
✔ Mix 1 cup water + 1 tablespoon vinegar + 5 drops of essential oil.
✔ Spray on curtains, carpets, and furniture for a fresh scent.
Pro Tip: Avoid artificial air fresheners that only mask odors temporarily.
Once the apartment smells fresh, prevent odors from returning.
✔ Open windows daily to keep air moving.
✔ Take out the trash regularly to prevent buildup.
✔ Vacuum and mop weekly to remove dust and smells.
✔ Use natural deodorizers (baking soda, charcoal, vinegar) to absorb odors.
Pro Tip: A clean apartment stays fresh—regular maintenance prevents odors from settling in.
If you're looking for a clean and fresh-smelling apartment in Accra, Apartments.com.gh helps you:
✔ Find well-ventilated apartments with proper maintenance.
✔ Compare rental listings with modern kitchens and bathrooms.
✔ Connect directly with landlords who ensure clean living spaces.
Start your apartment search today at Apartments.com.gh.
Getting rid of smells in a new apartment in Accra requires ventilation, deep cleaning, natural odor absorbers, and essential oils. By following these steps, you can eliminate bad odors and create a fresh, welcoming home.
Looking for a fresh-smelling apartment? Visit Apartments.com.gh today to explore listings in Accra.
