Vaping may have fewer lingering odors than traditional cigarettes, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely smell-free.
Over time, the scents from flavored e-liquids can become trapped in your home’s fabrics, carpets, and even walls.
The good news?
With a few simple strategies, you can easily remove that vape smell and keep your space smelling fresh.
What Causes the Vape Smell?
The subtle yet persistent odor from vaping often comes from the flavoring ingredients in e-liquids. These particles contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are chemicals that easily evaporate into the air and contribute to lingering odors.
Here’s what happens:
- Flavorings and Additives: Many e-liquids use artificial or natural flavorings, and when vaporized, these can leave behind faint chemical residues.
- Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG): While these substances help create thick vapor clouds, they can also contribute to sticky residue on walls, furniture, and fabrics.
- Nicotine and VOCs: Nicotine vapor can oxidize and develop a stale scent over time, while VOCs in e-liquids are known to linger and cause unwanted odors.
Poor ventilation worsens the problem by allowing these compounds to settle rather than disperse. Ideally, you’d have an air purifier capable of trapping VOCs in the room where vaping will happen.
Ways To Get Rid of Vape Smell
Ventilate Rooms
The easiest and most effective first step is to improve airflow. Open your windows to let fresh air circulate, or use a fan to push stale air out. Even just a few minutes of ventilation per day can make a big difference.
Air Purifiers with Activated Charcoal Filters
An air purifier equipped with an activated charcoal filter helps trap and neutralize unpleasant odors.
This can significantly reduce vape smells lingering in the air, making it easier to maintain a pleasant environment.
Look for units designed specifically for odor removal and remember to replace filters regularly. In addition, make sure your air purifier has the appropriate CADR for the space you’re trying to deodorize.
Keep in mind, that activated carbon filters have an effective lifetime. Rabbit Air charcoal-based activated carbon filters last as long as 12 months with regular use, but typical carbon filters will last a much shorter time. As soon as the porous carbon particles get saturated, they need to be replaced to remain effective.
Odor Neutralizers
Sometimes you need a little extra help.
Odor neutralizers go beyond masking smells—they help break down the odor molecules, leaving the room smelling genuinely fresh.
You don’t have to buy pricey products; DIY solutions can work wonders, too.
A few DIY odor neutralizers include:
- A bowl of white vinegar placed in the room overnight.
- Baking soda sprinkled on carpets or upholstery, then vacuumed after a few hours.
- Simple blends of essential oils and water as a homemade spray.
For a detailed list of DIY odor-fighting options, check out this helpful guide.
Getting Vape Smell Out of Carpets, Pillows, and Furniture
Soft surfaces can trap odors more than hard ones. To freshen up these areas:
Vacuum Thoroughly: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Go over carpets and upholstery multiple times to pull out embedded vape residue.
Baking Soda Treatment: Lightly sprinkle baking soda on carpets, pillows, and furniture. Let it sit for a few hours (or overnight) before vacuuming it up.
Wash Fabrics: Remove pillow covers, couch cushions, and curtains. Toss them in the washing machine with a bit of white vinegar or a scented laundry booster for a fresh, clean smell.
Steam Cleaning: For deeply embedded odors, consider using a steam cleaner. The hot steam can help loosen and remove stubborn scents.
Sunshine & Fresh Air: Hanging pillows, blankets, and cushions outside for a few hours can help air them out naturally.
Long-term Solutions to Vape Smell
If you’re dealing with recurring vape smells, consider some long-term strategies:
Designate a Vaping Area: Choose a well-ventilated spot—preferably near a window or outside—to contain odors.
Upgrade Your Ventilation: Use exhaust fans or invest in a quality air purifier to keep air moving and prevent buildup.
Clean Regularly: Wipe down surfaces, wash fabrics, and vacuum floors on a regular schedule. Don’t give odors a chance to settle in.
Consider Unscented or Less Potent E-liquids: Some vape flavors are stronger than others. Switching to less aromatic options can reduce lingering smells.
Closing Thoughts: Don’t Let Vape Smells Ruin Your Home
Your home should be a place of comfort, not a reminder of yesterday’s vape session. By following these simple tips—ventilating, using DIY odor neutralizers, and cleaning soft surfaces—you can reclaim your fresh, welcoming environment. With a bit of effort and consistency, you’ll never have to worry about lingering vape smells again.
