How To Get Smell Out Of Wood Flooring? 7 Ways

Your hardwood floors should smell like fresh wood—not a wine spill or a mystery odor that won’t go away. Wood is porous, meaning it traps smells deep inside, making them hard to remove. 

But don’t worry—whether it’s pet accidents, moisture, or old spills causing the stench, we’ve got proven methods to fix it. 

Here’s how to get your floors smelling fresh again without damaging the wood.

Identify the Source of the Odor

You need to tackle different smells with different types of cleaning solutions. So before you grab the nearest cleaner, pinpoint the cause:

Pet Accidents

Pet pee and poop seep into the wood, creating persistent odors. If you leave it untreated, the ammonia-like smell intensifies 

Make sure you address the issue quickly to prevent deep penetration into the wood grain.

Food and Drink Spills

Organic matter decays over time, creating musty or sour odors. Spilled milk, wine, or coffee can leave behind stubborn smells. 

Cleaning up spills immediately reduces the risk of lingering stains and odors.

Moisture and Mold

Excess moisture fosters mold growth, leading to a damp, earthy scent. If your wood floors smell musty, check for hidden leaks. 

Proper ventilation and dehumidifiers help prevent mold buildup.

Immediate Cleaning Methods

Once you know what you’re dealing with, act fast. Quick action prevents odors from setting deep into the wood.

1. White Vinegar and Water Solution

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth and wipe the affected area. 

Vinegar neutralizes odors without damaging the wood’s finish. Let the floor air dry completely to avoid trapping moisture.

2. Baking Soda Absorption

Can you use baking soda on hardwood floors? Yes, but with care. Sprinkle a light layer over the area, leave it overnight, and vacuum it up in the morning. 

It works wonders on lingering smells. For best results, repeat the process for strong odors.

3. Activated Charcoal

Place small bowls of activated charcoal near the smelly area. It absorbs airborne odors without having direct contact with the wood. 

This method works well for general household odors too.

4. Enzymatic Cleaners for Organic Odors

If you’re battling pet urine or poop, an enzymatic cleaner is your best bet. This is because they break down organic compounds at the molecular level.

Enzymes digest odor-causing bacteria, eliminating the smell instead of masking it. They also help break down stains, making them a great all-in-one solution.

Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Odors

For smells that refuse to budge, it’s time for a deeper clean.

5. Hydrogen Peroxide Method

Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide onto a soft cloth and gently rub the affected area. It lifts deep-set odors but should be used sparingly to avoid discoloration. 

Always test in an inconspicuous spot first.

6. Sanding and Refinishing

If odors have seeped into the wood, sanding may be necessary. Removing the top layer and resealing the floor eliminates trapped smells. 

This is a last resort but can restore the original freshness of your flooring.

7. Professional Cleaning

If DIY methods don’t work, professional hardwood floor cleaners have industrial-strength tools that can penetrate deeper than home remedies. 

This option is especially useful for historic or delicate wood floors.

Preventing Future Odors

Prevention is always better than cure. Keep your wood floors smelling fresh with these habits:

• Seal the Floors: A high-quality wood floor sealant blocks odors from absorbing into the grain. Regular resealing extends the lifespan of your floors and keeps them odor-free.
• Routine Cleaning: Sweep and mop regularly with a wood-friendly cleaner to stop smells before they start. Using a microfiber mop can help capture dirt and bacteria more effectively.
• Control Humidity: Use a dehumidifier in damp areas to prevent mold growth and musty odors. Keeping indoor humidity between 30-50% is ideal for wood floors.

When to Replace vs. Restore Smelly Wood Floors

Sometimes, odors become so deeply embedded in the wood that no amount of cleaning will fully remove them. If your floor still smells after multiple deep-cleaning attempts, consider assessing its condition. 

Check for signs of rot, blackened wood, or warping—these indicate severe moisture damage, often needing replacement. However, if the wood is structurally sound, refinishing might be enough.

Sanding down a few layers and resealing the surface can eliminate trapped odors while preserving your flooring. For historic or high-value floors, professional restoration is a worthwhile investment. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does wood absorb smell?  

Yes, wood is porous, meaning it soaks up odors from spills, pets, and moisture. Sealing the wood can prevent this. Cleaning regularly helps minimize absorption over time.

How can I deodorize hardwood floors?  

For hardwood floors, use natural deodorizers like vinegar, baking soda, or enzymatic cleaners. Regular maintenance keeps odors from returning. For persistent smells, consider deep cleaning or refinishing.

Does baking soda damage wood floors?  

No, baking soda doesn’t damage wood floors if you use it correctly. Avoid excessive moisture and vacuum up the baking soda promptly to prevent grit from scratching the surface. A damp (not wet) mop afterwards ensures a residue-free finish.

Conclusion 

Some odors are easy to fix, while others linger no matter what you try. Pet accidents, spills, and moisture all leave their mark, and while natural deodorizers and deep cleaning can help, they’re not always a permanent solution. 

If your floors still hold onto stubborn smells even after multiple treatments, the issue may go deeper than the surface. At some point, replacing the flooring is the only way to get a truly fresh start.

Considering new flooring? We can help. Our professional installation ensures a flawless finish with durable materials. Get a free quote today.