Bio-One of Marion County decontamination and biohazard cleaning services

Is That You, Fido? Pet-Related Smells and How to Banish Them

Ah, the joys of pet ownership. Few things can compare to the unconditional love and companionship an animal brings into our lives. But here's the thing no one mentions before you become a proud pet parent—pets come with smells. And not the pleasant kind that makes you want to snuggle with them all day. No, we're talking about those nose-wrinkling odors that make your guests quietly wonder if they're nearing the entrance to a zoo. Fear not! Today, we're tackling the mystery of pet-related smells and providing solutions to keep Fido and your home fresh.

Why Do Pets Smell in the First Place?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of cleaning and decontaminating, let's take a moment to understand why our furry friends can be a little stinky. First up, skin oils. Dogs and cats have natural oils that keep their skin healthy, but over time, these oils can build up and create an odor. Then there's the famous wet dog smell, which occurs when the oils in their coats mix with water and release a potent scent.

We can't forget about our feline friends, either. Cats are known for being tidy creatures, but their litter boxes? Not so much. The combination of urine and ammonia can create a powerful stench when not taken care of properly.

Common Areas Where Pet Odors Lurk

The Living Room

This is often where your pets spend most of their time, lounging on sofas or sprawling across the carpet. Over time, these fabrics absorb the natural oils and skin flakes from your pet, creating a lingering scent that's hard to ignore. It's also the room where pet toys and blankets accumulate, each contributing its own unique aroma.

It's important to regularly vacuum and clean your living room to keep pet smells at bay. You can use baking soda as a natural odor neutralizer for carpets and upholstery. Simply sprinkle it on, leave it for a few hours, and then vacuum it up. It's a simple solution that'll help maintain the freshness of your living room without causing distress to either you or your pet!

The Bedroom

Pets—and their owners—often enjoy snuggling in the bedroom, which means this space can easily become another hotspot for pet-related aromas. Between the bedding, curtains, and even your mattress, there's plenty of fabric to soak in those smells. If your furry friend sleeps with you, make sure to wash your sheets and pillowcases weekly. Having a designated pet bed with washable covers can also help in preserving the sanctity of your sleeping quarters.

Don't forget to vacuum or mop under the bed, as dust and dander can accumulate and contribute to an unpleasant scent. Keep windows open whenever possible to allow fresh air to circulate and disperse any lingering odors. You'll find that these small changes make a big difference in maintaining a fresh-smelling bedroom.

The Kitchen

While it might not seem like an obvious spot for pet odors, the kitchen is often a culprit, especially if you feed your pet there. Spilled food and water, combined with the occasional kibble crumb, can create a less-than-appetizing atmosphere. Make it a habit to clean up after every meal, wiping down surfaces and sweeping the floor to prevent lingering odors.

A dedicated area for feeding, complete with a mat under food and water bowls, can help contain the mess and make cleanup more straightforward. Regularly wash your pet's food and water dishes to prevent any buildup of bacteria or odors.

dos mess concept living room

The Bathroom

For pet owners with cats, the bathroom often becomes a designated litter box zone. While your kitty might be a pro at covering their business, the litter box itself can become a source of unwanted odors. To combat this, invest in high-quality litter that clumps effectively and neutralizes odors. Make it a habit to scoop the box daily and change the litter entirely at least once a week.

If you have dogs, the bathroom may serve as their grooming station. Storing pet shampoos and grooming tools in an accessible location can make bath time less stressful and more efficient. Regularly washing your pet in the bathroom will not only keep them clean but also help reduce odors in your home.

The Mudroom

You might view the mudroom as a lifesaver, a buffer between the outdoors and the rest of your house, especially if Fido loves to roll around in all manner of muck. This room can quickly become a hotspot for smells if it's not addressed regularly. Store pet towels and wipes in the mudroom to quickly clean your furry friends before they enter the main living areas.

Keep a shoe rack or mat by the door to catch any dirt or debris your pet might track in, and vacuum or mop this area frequently. By maintaining a clean mudroom, you’ll ensure that the rest of your home remains odor-free and ready for guests.

Simple Solutions to Combat Pet Odors

Regular Grooming

One of the simplest ways to tackle pet odors is through regular grooming. Bathing your pet every 4-6 weeks, depending on their breed and lifestyle, will help manage the buildup of oils and dirt that contribute to smells. Regular brushing will also reduce shedding and distribute natural oils evenly throughout their coat.

grooming dog house concept

For cats, grooming might involve brushing and occasional baths if they tolerate it. Managing your pet's hygiene not only keeps them looking their best but also reduces the amount of odor they introduce into your home. Plus, grooming sessions are a great way to bond with your pet!

Cleaning and Ventilation

Keeping your home clean is essential for managing pet odors. Regular vacuuming, mopping, and dusting will prevent dirt and dander from accumulating and contributing to unwanted smells. Invest in a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, specifically designed to capture pet hair and allergens, ensuring a thorough clean.

Ventilation is another key factor in reducing odors. Keeping windows open, using air purifiers, and ensuring proper air circulation will make a significant difference in maintaining a fresh-smelling home. Consider using natural odor eliminators like activated charcoal or plants like peace lilies and spider plants to further improve indoor air quality.

DIY Deodorizers

Harness the power of natural ingredients to combat pet smells with DIY deodorizers. Baking soda, as mentioned earlier, is a fantastic option for neutralizing odors in carpets and upholstery. You can also create a natural air freshener by mixing equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a pleasant scent.

For a more potent odor eliminator, consider making a homemade enzyme cleaner by combining orange peels, sugar, and water in a jar. Allow the mixture to ferment for a few weeks, then strain it into a spray bottle. Use this solution to tackle stubborn odors on any surface, from floors to furniture.

Pet-related Odors and How Bio-One Can Remove Them!

While DIY methods are great for everyday maintenance, sometimes you need an expert touch to eradicate deeply ingrained smells. This is where professional odor removal services, like Bio-One of Marion County, come in handy. We use advanced technology and eco-friendly products to tackle odors at their source, providing a comprehensive solution that's both safe for pets and effective. Whether it's a mysterious smell you can't quite pinpoint or a stubborn stench that just won’t budge, we’ve got you covered!

Turn Your Home into an Odor-Free Haven

Banishing pet smells doesn't have to be an overwhelming task. With a combination of regular grooming, diligent cleaning, and a little help from professionals, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—a home filled with the love of your pets and devoid of any unwelcome odors. Remember that it's all about balance, and with the right approach, you and Fido can coexist in harmony.

Ready to give your home the fresh start it deserves? Contact Bio-One of Marion County today for top-notch odor removal services that’ll have your space smelling like new!


Bio-One specializes in blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, sewage backups, and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.

How to Effectively Remove Smoke Odor in Your Home: Expert Tips

Are you tired of dealing with persistent smoke odor in your home? Whether it's from cigarette smoke, a recent fire, or a cooking mishap, smoke odor can linger long after the initial incident, and making your home smell fresh and clean again can feel like an impossible task.

In this guide, we'll explore expert tips for effectively removing smoke odor from your home. From understanding how smoke permeates your living space to exploring DIY methods and professional services, we've got you covered. Let's get started!

Understanding Smoke Odor

How Smoke Odor Permeates the Home

Smoke odor doesn't just stay in the air; it can embed itself deeply into various surfaces and materials. The problem begins when smoke particles, which are tiny and lightweight, travel through the air and settle onto every available surface. This includes walls, carpets, furniture, and even your HVAC system.

smoke odor particles can travel and seep into YHVAC systems

Causes of Smoke Odor

Several factors can contribute to the presence of smoke odor in your home. Common causes include:

  • Cigarette smoke: Smoking indoors can cause a buildup of smoke particles that cling to walls, furniture, and other surfaces.
  • Cooking accidents: Burning food or oils produces strong odors that linger long after you resolve the cooking mishap.
  • Fire damage: A fire in your home can leave behind extensive smoke odor that permeates everything in its path.
smoke odor in kitchen seeping example

Once smoke particles settle into surfaces, they can penetrate porous materials like upholstery and drywall, making it difficult to eliminate the odor entirely with simple cleaning methods.

Common DIY Methods and Their Limitations

Popular DIY Remedies

When faced with smoke odor, many homeowners turn to DIY remedies. Some popular methods include:

  • Baking Soda: Known for its odor-absorbing properties, you can sprinkle baking soda on carpets and upholstery.
  • Vinegar: You can use white vinegar to neutralize odors, and it often serves in cleaning solutions.
  • Air Purifiers: These devices can help remove airborne smoke particles and freshen the air.

Pros and Cons of DIY Methods

While DIY methods can be helpful for mild smoke odors, they have their limitations. Baking soda and vinegar can provide temporary relief, but they may not reach deep-seated odors! Air purifiers can improve air quality, but they can't address smoke particles embedded in surfaces.

odor removal technician bio-one

For severe or long-term smoke odors, DIY methods may fall short. Smoke particles that have penetrated deep into materials require more intensive treatment. Relying solely on DIY remedies may leave you feeling frustrated because it will not fix the issue in the long run!

Professional Smoke Odor Removal Services

What Are Professional Odor Removal Techniques?

Did you know there are companies dedicated specifically to removing smoke odors? Professional services use advanced techniques such as:

  • Thermal Fogging: This method uses a heated fog that penetrates surfaces and neutralizes odor particles.
  • Ozone Treatment: An ozone generator can break down odor molecules in the air, eliminating them at the source.
  • Hydroxyl Generation: Similar to ozone treatment, hydroxyl generators use UV rays to remove odors from the air.

Steps Involved in the Odor Removal Process

When you hire a professional service, the process typically involves several steps:

  1. Assessment: Technicians assess the extent of smoke damage and identify affected areas.
  2. Cleaning: Surfaces are thoroughly cleaned to remove visible smoke residues.
  3. Odor Treatment: Advanced techniques like thermal fogging or ozone treatment are applied to neutralize embedded odors.
  4. Sealing: In some cases, surfaces may be sealed to prevent odors from resurfacing.

How Bio-One of Marion County Can Help

Remember, while DIY methods can provide temporary relief, professional smoke odor removal services offer a comprehensive solution for severe or persistent odors. If you're ready to say goodbye to smoke odor for good, consider reaching out to Bio-One of Marion County. Our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge and tools to effectively eliminate smoke odors from your home. Don't wait. Schedule our services or request a quote today!


Bio-One specializes in blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, sewage backups, and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.

7 Effective DIY Odor-Removal Tips for a Fragrant Home - Bio-One of Marion County

Do you ever walk into your home and immediately get hit by an unpleasant odor? Or maybe you've had guests over who politely hint at a funky smell lingering in the air. Regardless of the source, unwanted odors can quickly make your home feel less inviting and fresh. But before you reach for store-bought air fresheners or candles, consider these 7 effective DIY odor removal tips for a fragrant home. Not only are they more budget-friendly, but they also use natural ingredients that are better for both your health and the environment.

baking soda, vinegar, and lemon
Image by Freepik

1. Baking Soda as an Air Freshener

Baking soda is a great all-purpose cleaner and deodorizer. To create an effective air freshener, simply mix equal parts baking soda and water in a spray bottle. You can also add a few drops of essential oils for a pleasant scent. Spray the mixture in any room or on fabrics to eliminate unwanted odors.

2. Vinegar Deodorizer

Vinegar is another versatile and natural ingredient that can help remove odors from your home. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it to mist areas that tend to hold onto odors, such as carpets, upholstery, and curtains. The vinegar will neutralize the odor without leaving behind a strong vinegar scent.

Does Vinegar Smell Linger for Long Periods?

No, the vinegar smell will dissipate quickly once it has dried. If you are still concerned about the scent, you can add a few drops of essential oils to the mixture or open windows for better ventilation.

3. Lemon Peel Potpourri

Instead of using store-bought potpourri filled with artificial scents, create your own natural version using lemon peels. Simply save your lemon peels and let them dry out completely. Then, place them in a decorative bowl or jar and leave them out in any room where you want to freshen the air.

Charcoal Odor Absorber example
Image by Freepik

4. Charcoal Odor Absorber

Charcoal is another great option among DIY odor-removal tips. It's known for its ability to absorb odors and toxins, making it a perfect natural option for removing unwanted smells from your home. Place a few pieces of charcoal in small bowls or mesh bags and leave them in areas that need odor control, such as closets, bathrooms, and near trash cans.

5. Essential Oil Diffuser

Diffusing essential oils is a great way to not only freshen the air but also create a relaxing atmosphere in your home. Use an electronic diffuser or simply add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a bowl of hot water and let it fill the room with a pleasant scent.

6. Natural Room Spray

For an easy and customizable air freshener, create your own natural room spray using distilled water, witch hazel, and essential oils. Combine them in a spray bottle and use them as needed to freshen up any room in your home.

7. Baking Soda Carpet Deodorizer

Baking soda is always present when trying DIY odor-removal tips. This is a powerful natural deodorizer that can help eliminate odors trapped in your carpets. Simply sprinkle baking soda over your carpet, let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then vacuum it up!

natural spray diy odor-removal tips solution
Image by Freepik

You Need to Tackle the Source of the Smell!

While these natural air freshener options can help mask and eliminate odors, it's important to also address the source of the smell. Make sure to regularly clean and declutter syour home to prevent any unwanted odors from lingering.

Learn more: Lingering Odors Indoors & How Bio-One Can Help Remove Them

If these DIY odor-removal tips don't work, Bio-One can Help!

If you're dealing with persistent odors or other issues in your home, Bio-One offers professional cleaning and odor removal services. In addition to using these natural methods, it's important to regularly clean and declutter your home to prevent odors from building up. With a combination of DIY solutions and professional help, you can have a fresh-smelling home in no time!  So when life presents you with an unexpected odor challenge, don't stress - Just reach out to Bio-One for expert assistance.


Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. We specialize in all types of extreme cleaning, including blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, rodent droppings, sewage backups, hoarding, gross filth, virus/bacteria disinfection and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.

Odor No More: How to Remove Unwanted Smells from Your Home - Bio-One of Marion County

Unpleasant odors in your home can be a major headache and spoil the natural ambiance. If you've tried everything to remove unwanted smells, it's time to sit up and pay attention. There are simple and practical ways to eliminate unwanted smells from your home. And with a little bit of effort, you'll have a fresher and more inviting living space. Take a look at a few practical ways to get that funky smell out of your home, and how our remediation technicians at Bio-One of Marion County can help if the situation gets too difficult to handle on your own.

Keep Areas Ventilated

One of the easiest ways to keep your home smelling great is to let fresh air in! Open windows and doors to encourage airflow and promote natural air circulation. This simple step can help remove musty odors that form when stale air lingers. Additionally, letting in sunlight can help kill any bacteria or other microorganisms that contribute to unpleasant odors.

Clean Your Home Regularly

Cleaning around your home regularly is the most important thing you can do to remove unwanted smells. Wipe down surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner, vacuum regularly, and sweep your floors. Pay special attention to the high-traffic areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, and living room. These areas tend to accumulate more dirt, dust, and debris which can contribute to unpleasant smells.

For the less-traffic areas, such as guest bedrooms or storage rooms, make sure to deep clean them at least once every six months. This will prevent any lingering odors from forming and keep your home smelling fresh.

use natural deodorizers to remove unwanted smells
Image by Freepik

Use Natural Deodorizers

Instead of using chemical-based air fresheners that simply mask odors, try using natural deodorizers. Some great options include baking soda, white vinegar, or activated charcoal. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it up. White vinegar can be used to clean surfaces, floors, and even laundry. Activated charcoal is great for absorbing odors in smaller spaces such as closets or bathrooms.

Use Scented Candles and Essential Oils

If you want to add a fragrance to your home to cover up any unpleasant smells, opt for scented candles and essential oils. Use these in moderation because a strong scent can be as unpleasant as an odor. Essential oils provide a natural fragrance that smells amazing while scented candles warm your home and can help mask any unpleasant smells.

Citrus scents like lemon and orange are a great option for kitchens and holiday seasons. Lavender and chamomile scents help promote relaxation and calmness, so they are perfect for bedrooms.

organize your closet to remove unwanted smells

Organize Your Closets

When you have a lot of stuff crammed into small spaces, it's easy for musty odors to build up. Make sure to organize your closets, cabinets, and wardrobes efficiently to keep clothes and other objects from becoming musty. Use hanging bags or sachet bags filled with fragrant herbs like lavender or rosemary. It can help protect your clothes from bad odors and keep them smelling clean and fresh!

If the Smell Persists, Call Bio-One for Help!

With the tips we've outlined above, you can improve the air quality in your home and remove unwanted smells for good. Keep your living spaces clean and debris-free, use natural odor absorbers, and add a few touches of natural fragrance around your house to keep the air smelling fresh.

If you've tried all of these natural and DIY methods but the unpleasant smell still persists, it may be time to call in the professionals. Bio-One can tackle even the most stubborn smells. We use advanced technology and techniques to permanently eliminate odors from your home, leaving it smelling fresh and clean!


Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. We specialize in all types of extreme cleaning, including blood and bodily fluids, decomposition/undiscovered death, crime scene, suicide cleanup, tear gas, feces/urine, rodent droppings, sewage backups, hoarding, gross filth, virus/bacteria disinfection and odor removal. Helping people get their lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One of Marion County is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.

Rebecca Wallace, Bio-One owner, recently visited with Arizona Midday to share how the Bio-One team makes a difference on and off the job in Arizona and throughout the United States. 

Arizona Midday - "Well we've got some help for your home right now. If you're feeling overwhelmed by a clean-up project, we've got help for you today. Rebecca Wallace is with Bio-One. Hi Rebecca. What is Bio-One?"

Rebecca - "So Bio-One is known for crime and trauma scene clean-up. However, we do a lot more than just that. We help people when there is a hoarding situation, so that they can regain their home and their lives again. We help with infectious disease decontaminationrodent droppingsodor abatement, basically if you think you might need a respirator to do the job we're the people you want to call."

Arizona Midday - "Wow, that's incredible. It's stuff we don't want to do. What made you decide to get into this line of work?" 

Rebecca - "So, me and my husband live in Flagstaff most of the time and we were talking with some first responders and heard how when people pass away or they're hoarders there is no one that can help them. There's just no one who does this kind of work. So we decided we want to be able to help our community, help those around us during a time of need so they can actually move forward in their lives and not have to deal with the mess of maybe things that have happened that they don't want to have to think about."

Arizona Midday - "I love that idea. So in order to help your clients as much as possible, do you work with other companies? Tell me about that if you do."

Rebecca - "Yes, we do. We work with quite a few other companies, because what we do is just a piece of a whole puzzle. So we work with a lot of restoration companies, Best Option Restoration, they are state-wide like us so they can help us anywhere as well. We work with animal rescues, so if there is a hoarding situation that animals are involved in we can get the animals out safely and get them rehabilitated. We work with quite a few non-profits that help first responders if they're in a time of need or crisis. It's across the board. We work with all kinds of different people. Contractors. Mental health professionals. Anyone that can be a piece of that puzzle with us, we want to work with them. 

Arizona Midday - "Oh, I love that. So what areas of Arizona does Bio-One cover?"

Rebecca - "We have offices all the way down from Tucson up to Flagstaff, and everything in-between. Our goal is to be able to help our clients within 90 minutes or less if there is an emergency. So we have offices everywhere. Any we're national. We have 120 offices throughout the US as well. 

Arizona Midday - "Wow. That's incredible. So you work with businesses. You work with non-profits, but you're also really involved in the community too, right? Tell me about that."

Rebecca - "Yeah we are. It's important for us to give back. Our community is important. We live here. We're part of it. So in 2020 alone, we gave out over 25,000 bottles of chemicals that are approved by the EPA for COVID-19 decontamination. We have blood drives all throughout Arizona to help with the blood shortage. We donate PPE to first responders and victim advocates. And we have BBQ's throughout the state as well for all of our first responders just to tell them thank you for what they've been doing. They work hard and we want to make sure that they know we care. 

Arizona Midday - "Rebecca Wallace, incredible work that you're doing with Bio-One.  And thank you so much for spending time with us today. 

Rebecca - "Thank you for having me."