---
title: "The 8 Easiest Ways to Eliminate Bathroom Odor"
date: "2018-01-13"
modified: "2021-12-03"
authors:
  - name: "Andreana Lefton"
    job_title: "Contributing Writer"
    link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/andreana-lefton/"
url: "https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/the-8-easiest-ways-to-eliminate-bathroom-odor-51808/"
categories:
  - "Bathrooms"
  - "Cleaning"
  - "Cleaning & Organizing"
  - "DIY"
  - "Interior"
tags:
  - "bathroom"
  - "cleaning"
---

# The 8 Easiest Ways to Eliminate Bathroom Odor

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bathroom-odor-toilet.jpg>)

### Keep It Natural

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bathroom-odor-cleaning.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Commercial [cleaning supplies](<https://www.bobvila.com/>) leave a thick chemical residue in the air. Rather than mask foul smells, neutralize them by using natural cleaning supplies made with baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice. In between cleanings, leave an open container of baking soda in the bathroom to help absorb unpleasant odors.

### Make a DIY Air Freshener

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bathroom-odor-freshener.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Many air fresheners contain phthalates, PEG-40, 1,4-DCB, and other toxic compounds. To avoid them, make your own DIY room spray by mixing 3/4 cup water, two tablespoons of [rubbing alcohol](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/17-clever-household-uses-for-rubbing-alcohol-50454/>), and five to six drops of an essential oil like orange, lavender, mint, grapefruit, or lemon verbena in an eight-ounce spray bottle.

### Try Bamboo Charcoal

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bathroom-odor-charcoal.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Bamboo charcoal is an environmentally friendly product that can absorb both smells and harmful chemicals. It has the additional benefit of dehumidifying air, which minimizes mold and mildew. Look for [deodorizers](<https://amzn.to/2FrsUDj>) and other products with this beneficial ingredient, and place in them your [bathroom](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/10-bathroom-trends-you-might-regret-50992/>) for a burst of freshness.

### Burn a Candle

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bathroom-odor-candles.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

For a comforting fragrance, keep candles and matches in your bathroom, and light them about an hour before guests arrive. Be mindful of open flames, and don't place candles near shower curtains, towels, or other [flammable](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/fire-safety/>) objects.

### Clean Regularly

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bathroom-odor-toilet-1.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Like dust, scents tend to accumulate over time. Keep odors in check by [cleaning](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/13-unusual-tips-for-your-cleanest-bathroom-ever-48495/>) your toilet brush with bleach, scrubbing the toilet bowl regularly, and wiping down the floor and sink to eliminate hair and dander buildup.

### Increase Airflow

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bathroom-odor-airflow.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

To increase airflow and neutralize [odors](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/10-instant-cures-for-any-kitchen-odor-50094/>), keep your bathroom window cracked at all times. Homeowners can also install an exhaust fan, and then be sure to use it! For a quick and easy solution, buy a small portable fan to plug into a bathroom socket.

### Remove Mold and Mildew

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bathroom-odor-mold.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Some powerful cleaners claim to remove mold and mildew from bathroom surfaces, but they also leave behind strong smells that can lead to headaches and other [health risks](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/would-your-kitchen-pass-a-restaurant-health-inspection-50626/>). Eliminate mold naturally by spraying undiluted vinegar onto affected areas. Wait an hour, then rinse with hot water and towel-dry.

### Invest in an Air Purifier

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bathroom-odor-purifier.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

There’s no shortage of air purifiers on the market. These handy products can scrub the air of bacteria, viruses, dust, dander, pollen, and other allergens. To find the perfect purifier for your budget and bathroom size, check out consumer-tested websites like [thewirecutter.com](<https://thewirecutter.com/reviews/best-air-purifier/>).

### Fresh Scents

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/8_Easiest_Ways_to_Eliminate_Bathroom_Odor.png>)
*bobvila.com*

Once the bathroom is freshened up, move on to the rest of the house. [Give these simple DIYs a try for nice scents](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/11-super-simple-ways-to-make-your-house-smell-fresh-49459/>) throughout your home.

## Author
Andréana Lefton is a writer and educator, focusing on human rights and creating spaces of refuge—in our homes and communities. As a documentary researcher, she has freelanced with The Guardian as well as NPR- and BBC-affiliates. She’s written for On Being, the United Nations, and many non-profit clients in the US, UK, Europe, and Middle East. All that she knows of garden care and interior design she learned from her artistic mother, Jacqueline. She now applies these skills to her life in Chattanooga, TN, where home is an urban art studio with books piled *everywhere*.

### Author social links  
[Twitter](<https://twitter.com/aelefton>)