How to Get Rid of Vomit Smell? Tips and Tricks

Published by Enaam Siam on April 29, 2023 | Last updated on May 14, 2023

Whether you’ve had a wild night out, dealt with a stomach virus, or have a little one who has been sick, vomit smells can linger and be tough to get rid of. The odor can be overwhelming and make it difficult to enjoy your home or even be in the same room.

Luckily, there are several effective ways to tackle the unpleasant smell and restore your space to freshness.

In this CleanersAdvisor guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about How to Get Rid of Vomit Smell. We’ll discuss the causes of the smell, offer tips on how to clean up vomit, and provide advice on how to eliminate the odor. Let’s get started.

Throughout this CleanersAdvisor guide, we will help you with How to Get Vomit Smell Out of Couch and How to Clean Vomit From Carpet.

Table of Contents

What Causes Vomit Smell?

Vomit smell is caused by a variety of factors, including stomach acid, bile, and undigested food particles. The odor can be particularly strong and long-lasting if the vomit has been left to sit for a while. In addition, if the vomit has come into contact with fabrics or surfaces, it can become embedded and difficult to remove.

How to Get Rid of Vomit Smell

Before tackling the smell, it’s important to clean up the vomit first. Here are some steps to follow:

Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Use a plastic bag to scoop up any solid vomit and dispose of it.
Blot up any remaining liquid with paper towels or a cloth.
Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the affected area and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Use a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar to clean the area. You can also use a commercial vomit cleaner.
Rinse the area with water and blot dry with a clean towel.

How to Get Rid of Vomit Smell from Mattresses?

If vomit has gotten onto a mattress, it can be difficult to remove the smell. Here’s what to do:

Use paper towels or a cloth to remove as much vomit as possible.
Sprinkle baking soda over the affected area and let it sit for 2-3 hours.
Vacuum up the baking soda.
Mix together a solution of 1 cup of water, 1 cup of white vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of dish soap.
Use a sponge to supply the solution to the affected area.
Blot the area with a clean cloth and let it dry completely.

How to Get Rid of Vomit Smell from Fabrics?

If vomit has come into contact with clothing, bedding, or other fabrics, it’s essential to clean them properly to remove the odor. Here’s 4 steps to do:

Soak the affected item in cold water for at least30 minutes.
Wash the item in the washing machine using a detergent that contains enzymes.
If the smell persists, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle.
Dry the item in the sun or in the dryer using a low heat setting.

How to Get Rid of Vomit Smell from Hard Surfaces?

To remove vomit smell on hard surfaces, such as tile or hardwood floors, follow these steps:

Use paper towels or a cloth to remove any solid vomit.
Wipe the area with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar.
Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then wipe it up with a clean cloth.
Rinse the area with water and wipe it dry with a clean towel.

How to Get Rid of Vomit Smell from Carpets and Rugs?

Carpets and rugs can be particularly challenging to clean if they have come into contact with vomit. Here’s how to eliminate the odor:

Remove as much vomit as possible with paper towels or a cloth.
Sprinkle baking soda over the affected area and let it sit for 2-3 hours.
Vacuum up the baking soda.
Mix together a solution of 1 cup water, 1 cup white vinegar, and 1 tablespoon dish soap.
Use a sponge to apply the solution to the affected area.
Blot the area with a clean cloth and let it dry completely.

If you’re looking for a deeper step by step guide, visit our guide on How to Clean Vomit From Carpet.

Natural Remedies for Vomit Smell

There are several natural remedies you can use to eliminate vomit smell. Here are a few:

Baking soda: As mentioned above, sprinkling baking soda over the affected area can help absorb the odor.
Vinegar: A solution of equal parts water and white vinegar can be used to clean surfaces and fabrics.
Activated charcoal: Placing activated charcoal in a room can help absorb odors.
Essential oils: Certain essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree oil, can help mask the smell of vomit.

Tips for Preventing Vomit Smell

While it’s not always possible to prevent vomit smell, there are a few things you can do to minimize it:

Clean up vomit as soon as possible to prevent it from sitting and becoming embedded.
Use a vomit cleaner specifically designed to eliminate the odor.
Open windows or use a fan to increase ventilation in the affected area.
Keep activated charcoal or air fresheners on hand to use in case of an emergency.

How to Get Rid of Vomit Smell FAQs

How long does it take for vomit smell to go away?

The length of time it takes for the smell to go away depends on the severity of the vomit and the cleaning method used. In general, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.

Can I use bleach to clean up vomit?

It’s not recommended to use bleach as it can react with the stomach acid in vomit and create harmful fumes.

What can I do if the smell persists?

If the smell persists, try using a commercial odor eliminator or consult a professional cleaning service.

Conclusion

Dealing with vomit smell can be unpleasant, but with the right cleaning methods and natural remedies, you can eliminate the odor and restore freshness to your home.

Remember to clean up vomit as soon as possible, use the right cleaning products, and take steps to prevent the smell from lingering. With these tips, you’ll be able to get rid of vomit smell in no time.