How to Get Rid of Cigarette Smell in Apartment Fast and Easily

Cigarette smoke can feel impossible to escape, especially in an apartment. The smell gets into walls, carpets, and even your clothes. If you just moved into a place where someone smoked, or you want to freshen up your own space, you probably notice the smell lingers much longer than expected.

Many people try air fresheners or open windows, but the odor often returns. Removing cigarette smell from an apartment is not easy, but it is possible with the right steps and a bit of patience.

Why Cigarette Smell Is So Hard To Remove

Cigarette smoke contains thousands of chemicals. These chemicals stick to surfaces and fabrics, making the odor strong and long-lasting. The smell can soak into porous materials like drywall, carpet, and upholstery. Even after the smoke is gone, tiny particles stay behind, causing the odor to return after cleaning.

One important detail many people miss is that air fresheners only cover up the smell. They do not remove the particles that cause it. For example, after you spray an air freshener, you may notice the scent is better for a few hours, but the musty or smoky odor comes back as soon as the spray fades. Another thing to remember: the smell may be coming from places you cannot see, like inside air vents or behind cabinets. These hidden areas can continue releasing odor over time, making it feel like your cleaning isn’t working.

Smoke odors also build up in apartments over years, not just days or weeks. If someone smoked indoors for a long time, the odor gets deeper into the structure. This is why old apartments or those with heavy smokers are much harder to clean.

Even the glue under tiles or wallpaper can hold on to cigarette smell.

Step-by-step Guide To Remove Cigarette Smell

Getting rid of cigarette smell in an apartment requires a layered approach. One cleaning is not enough. You will need to work on all surfaces, fabrics, and even the air itself. If you skip a step or miss a hidden area, the smell may quickly return.

1. Air Out Your Apartment

The first thing you should do is let in fresh air. Open all windows and doors, if possible. Use fans to help move the air outside.

• Place fans facing outwards in windows to push smoky air out.
• If you have a balcony, open that door as well.
• Do this for several hours, or even all day.

If you can, create a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of the apartment. This helps move air through the rooms faster. If the weather is cold, you can still air out the apartment for short periods—just close doors to keep heat in other rooms.

This step helps remove airborne particles, but will not get rid of the smell completely. Still, it’s an important start before deep cleaning.

2. Remove All Source Items

Cigarette smell sticks to things. Remove anything that smells like smoke:

• Throw away ashtrays, lighters, and cigarette packs.
• Wash or replace curtains, blankets, and pillows.
• Remove any old rugs or mats if possible.
• Take out all trash before deep cleaning.

Some items are not worth cleaning and can be replaced cheaply, like shower curtains or bath mats. Even things you don’t see, such as old magazines or boxes in closets, can hold odor. If you’re unsure, give items a sniff—if they smell, they need to be washed or tossed.

Removing these items stops the source of the smell from spreading as you clean the rest of the apartment.

3. Clean All Surfaces

Walls And Ceilings

Smoke sticks to walls and ceilings, especially if the apartment was smoked in for a long time.

• Mix a solution of warm water, white vinegar, and a few drops of dish soap.
• Use a sponge or soft cloth to wipe walls and ceilings. Start at the top and move down.
• For tough stains, use a magic eraser or a product made for nicotine removal.
• Rinse with clean water to remove any leftover cleaner.

*Tip:* Always test a small area first to make sure the cleaner does not damage the paint.

Don’t forget to clean baseboards, trim, and even crown molding. These areas can be missed but are often sticky with residue.

Floors

Carpets and hard floors both absorb smoke smell.

• For carpets, sprinkle baking soda and let it sit overnight, then vacuum.
• Steam cleaning works best for deep odors. You can rent a steam cleaner for this.
• For hard floors (tile, wood, laminate), mop with a vinegar and water solution.

If you have area rugs, take them outside to air out in the sun if possible. Sunlight helps break down odors naturally.

Windows And Mirrors

Smoke leaves a thin film on glass.

• Use glass cleaner or a mix of vinegar and water.
• Wipe window sills, frames, and tracks too.

If you notice yellow or brown residue, that’s nicotine and tar from the smoke. Removing it makes a big difference in air quality and smell.

Cabinets And Drawers

• Take out all items.
• Wipe inside with vinegar and water.
• Leave doors open to air out.

If the odor is strong, place a small bowl of baking soda inside each cabinet overnight.

4. Deep Clean Fabrics And Upholstery

Soft materials trap smoke the most.

• Wash all curtains, cushion covers, and bed linens in hot water.
• For items that cannot be washed, sprinkle with baking soda, leave for 24 hours, then vacuum.
• Use fabric sprays made for odor removal, not just covering up smells.
• Consider professional cleaning for sofas or mattresses if the smell is very strong.

For deep odors, repeat washing or sprinkling more than once. Some materials may need several treatments before the odor is fully gone. Don’t forget smaller items like throw pillows and stuffed toys—these can be cleaned in the same way.

5. Clean Or Replace Air Filters

Air systems can keep spreading the smell.

• Replace HVAC filters or AC unit filters.
• If you have window AC units, clean or replace the filter.
• Clean vents and air returns with a vacuum and a damp cloth.

*Non-obvious insight:* Many people forget to clean or replace air filters, but this can make a huge difference in how quickly the smell returns.

If your apartment has a bathroom fan or kitchen exhaust fan, clean these filters too. They can trap smoke particles and blow them back into the air each time you use them.

6. Use Odor Absorbers

There are products that help pull odor from the air and surfaces.

• Place bowls of white vinegar, activated charcoal, or baking soda around the apartment.
• Leave them out for several days, changing as needed.
• Commercial odor absorbers like ozone generators can also help, but follow safety instructions closely.

*Important:* Ozone generators should not be used while people or pets are inside, as ozone can be harmful.

Another simple method is to put coffee grounds in bowls around the apartment. Coffee can absorb and mask odors naturally, and some people prefer this scent over vinegar.

7. Wash Clothes And Personal Items

Cigarette smell sticks to your clothes and even books or bags.

• Wash all clothes, even those you rarely wear.
• Wipe down shoes and bags with a damp cloth and mild soap.
• Air out books, or wipe covers with a gentle cleaner.

For books or papers that cannot be wiped, try sealing them in a box with a small dish of baking soda for a few days. This can help absorb lingering odors.

8. Clean Appliances And Electronics

Smoke can get inside electronics and kitchen appliances.

• Wipe the outside of TVs, remotes, and computers with a soft, damp cloth.
• Clean kitchen appliances, including the microwave and fridge, with vinegar and water.
• For electronics, avoid too much moisture and never spray directly onto them.

For kitchen appliances, remove any removable parts and wash separately. Don’t forget to clean inside the dishwasher and washing machine, which can also trap odors.

9. Treat The Air

After cleaning, you may still notice a faint odor. Treat the air with:

• Air purifiers with HEPA filters, which trap smoke particles.
• Boil lemon peels or cinnamon sticks in water to create a fresh scent.
• Light unscented candles; they can help absorb odor without just covering it.

Plants like spider plants or peace lilies can also help clean the air over time, though they don’t remove strong odors quickly.

10. Repaint If Needed

If the apartment still smells after deep cleaning, the smoke may be inside the paint or walls.

• Wash walls with a degreasing cleaner.
• Use a primer designed to seal in odors (like Kilz or Zinsser brands).
• Paint with a fresh coat.
• This is often the only way to completely remove very old or strong smoke odors.

If you repaint, choose a low-odor paint and ventilate the area well. This step is a big project, but it seals in any remaining odor and gives your apartment a fresh start.

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Comparing Cleaning Methods And Their Effectiveness

Sometimes, you need to decide which cleaning methods are worth your time or money. Here is a comparison of some common ways to remove cigarette smell:

Using a combination of these methods often works best. For example, start with vinegar cleaning and baking soda, then add steam cleaning for stubborn odors, and consider air purifiers for ongoing freshness.

What Not To Do

Some cleaning methods do not work or can even make things worse.

• Do not use scented sprays alone. They only cover up odor.
• Burning incense or candles with heavy scents can mix with smoke smell and create a new, unpleasant odor.
• Avoid using too much water on wood or electronics.
• Do not ignore hidden spots like inside closets, behind furniture, and under the bed.

Trying to mask the smell instead of removing it can lead to disappointment. For example, using strong air fresheners can sometimes trigger allergies or make the air feel stale. Always focus on cleaning, not just covering up the scent.

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Non-obvious Places Cigarette Smell Hides

It is easy to clean the main areas and still wonder why the smell comes back. Here are some hidden spots people often miss:

• Light fixtures and ceiling fans: Smoke rises and collects here. Remove covers and clean.
• Inside closets: Clean shelves, walls, and even the closet door.
• Behind appliances: Move fridges, stoves, and washing machines to clean behind them.
• Door frames and window tracks: Use a toothbrush to scrub these small areas.
• Inside air vents: Clean vent covers and, if possible, wipe inside the duct.

Another overlooked place is behind wall art or picture frames. The wall behind these can hold onto smoke residue, so wipe both the wall and the back of any frames.

How Long Does It Take To Remove Cigarette Smell?

Removing cigarette odor is not instant. The time needed depends on:

• How much and how long smoking happened inside.
• The size of the apartment.
• How many porous surfaces (carpet, curtains, etc.) Are present.
• The cleaning methods used.

Usually, you will notice a big improvement after a full day of cleaning. For strong odors, it can take several days to a few weeks of repeated cleaning and airing out.

Each cleaning round removes more particles. If the smell seems stuck, try waiting a few days and then repeat your efforts—sometimes, odors trapped deep in materials take longer to surface.

Professional Help: When To Consider It

Sometimes, DIY cleaning is not enough, especially if the smoke smell is very strong or has been there for years.

Professional services may include:

• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Ozone treatments
• Duct cleaning
• Wall and ceiling washing

If you are renting, ask your landlord if they offer professional cleaning or can share the cost. In some cases, professionals use industrial equipment that is much more effective than home methods.

Before hiring help, ask for references and reviews to make sure the service is experienced with smoke odor removal. Some companies guarantee results or offer follow-up visits if the smell returns.

Cost Comparison: Diy Vs. Professional Cleaning

To help you decide between cleaning yourself or hiring help, compare the estimated costs:

*Note*: Prices may vary by location and apartment size.

Sometimes, combining DIY methods with one professional service (like carpet cleaning or ozone treatment) gives the best results at a lower cost.

Preventing Cigarette Smell From Returning

Once you have a fresh-smelling apartment, you want to keep it that way.

• Do not allow smoking indoors. Create a smoking area outside, if possible.
• Use air purifiers all the time, not just after cleaning.
• Change air filters every few months.
• Open windows regularly to let in fresh air.
• Clean soft items (like cushions and curtains) every few months.

*Insider tip:* Place small bowls of activated charcoal or baking soda in closets and under sinks to keep absorbing odors before they build up.

If you have guests who smoke, kindly ask them to step outside or provide a designated smoking space away from open windows or doors.

What If The Smell Still Won’t Go Away?

If you have tried everything and the smell remains, it may be deep in the structure of the apartment—inside walls, floors, or even the insulation. In these rare cases, you may need to:

• Replace carpets or flooring.
• Remove and replace drywall.
• Ask your landlord about full renovation options.

This is very expensive and usually only needed for apartments with decades of heavy smoking.

If you are a renter, document your cleaning efforts and discuss options with your landlord, especially if the odor is impacting your health or quality of life.

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Health Risks Of Lingering Cigarette Odor

Cigarette smoke is not just annoying—it can be harmful even after the smoke is gone. Chemicals from smoke, known as thirdhand smoke, can cause health problems, especially for children and pets. According to research, these chemicals may stay on surfaces and dust for months and can be absorbed through the skin or breathed in. For more about the dangers of thirdhand smoke, you can read CDC’s overview on thirdhand smoke.

Sensitive people may notice headaches, allergies, or breathing problems in apartments with leftover smoke odor. Babies and pets who crawl or play on the floor are most at risk, since they touch and breathe in more of the residue.

Choosing The Right Products

With so many cleaning products and odor removers available, it is easy to feel lost. Here is what to look for:

• Enzyme cleaners: Break down organic particles that cause odor.
• Odor-sealing primers: Needed before repainting.
• HEPA air purifiers: Trap tiny smoke particles that regular filters miss.
• Activated charcoal: Absorbs odor without adding scent.

Avoid products that only add fragrance, as these will not solve the problem.

If you have allergies or chemical sensitivities, choose products labeled as “unscented” or “hypoallergenic. ” Always read instructions and test cleaners on small areas before using them everywhere.

How To Tell If The Smell Is Gone

Your nose may get used to the smell, so you might not notice if it is still there. Try these tricks:

• Invite a friend who does not smoke to visit. Fresh noses notice smells better.
• Leave the apartment for a day, then come back and sniff.
• Check small spaces like closets, drawers, and the inside of furniture.

Also, pay attention to how your clothes and hair smell after spending time at home—if you notice the odor outside, it may still be present in the apartment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Usually Take To Remove Cigarette Smell From An Apartment?

It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The time depends on how much smoke there is, the apartment’s size, and how deep the odor has gone into surfaces. A deep cleaning and airing out will usually show results in a few days, but old, heavy odors may need repeated cleaning over weeks.

Are There Any Quick Fixes For Cigarette Odor?

Quick fixes like air fresheners or scented candles only cover the smell for a short time. Opening windows and using fans can help with fresh air, but for a real solution, you need to clean all surfaces and fabrics, and treat the air with purifiers or odor absorbers.

Will Repainting My Apartment Get Rid Of Cigarette Smell?

Repainting helps only if you first clean walls and use a primer designed to seal odors. Simply painting over smoke-stained walls will not remove the underlying odor. Use odor-blocking primers for the best results.

Do Air Purifiers Really Help With Cigarette Smell?

Yes, air purifiers with HEPA filters are very effective at removing tiny smoke particles from the air. They are best used along with cleaning surfaces and fabrics. Air purifiers alone cannot remove odor that is already in walls or carpets.

What Should I Do If My Landlord Won’t Help With The Smoke Smell?

If you rent, talk to your landlord about the problem. Some leases require apartments to be smoke-free or odor-free between tenants. If your landlord will not help, keep records of your cleaning efforts and ask for help from local tenant organizations or housing authorities.

Cleaning an apartment with cigarette smell takes effort and time, but it is possible to restore freshness. Work step by step, focus on all surfaces, and do not forget hidden areas and air systems. With patience and the right approach, you can enjoy a clean and healthy home again.