How to Get Rid of Smoke Smell from Carpet After Fire
After a house fire, even a small one, smoke can leave behind a persistent, unpleasant odor—especially in porous materials like carpet. That smell doesn’t just make your home uncomfortable—it can also pose health risks if not properly addressed. Whether your carpet was exposed to light smoke or heavy soot, this guide will walk you through exactly how to get rid of smoke smell from carpet safely and effectively.
Why Smoke Odor Lingers in Carpets After a Fire
Carpets are made from fibers and padding that absorb smoke particles, ash, and oily soot. These contaminants sink deep into the material, making surface-level cleaning ineffective. Smoke odor also clings to moisture, meaning that in humid environments like New Jersey, the smell can intensify over time. If left untreated, it may linger for weeks—or longer.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
- HEPA vacuum or high-powered vacuum with HEPA filter
- Baking soda
- White vinegar or enzyme-based odor remover
- Steam cleaner (optional but effective)
- Protective gloves and face mask
- Clean microfiber cloths or towels
- Fan or dehumidifier
Step-by-Step: How to Remove Smoke Smell from Carpet
1. Vacuum Thoroughly (with a HEPA Filter)
Begin by vacuuming the entire carpet thoroughly. Use slow, overlapping passes in multiple directions. A HEPA filter vacuum is ideal because it traps the fine soot and ash particles that standard vacuums may miss or recirculate into the air.
2. Apply Baking Soda and Let It Sit Overnight
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda across the carpet surface and leave it overnight. Baking soda naturally absorbs odors. The next day, vacuum again thoroughly to remove the powder and the odor it absorbed.
3. Use a White Vinegar Spray or Enzyme Cleaner
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist the carpet. Avoid over-saturating the fibers. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then blot the area with clean towels. If available, use a commercial enzyme-based odor eliminator designed for fire or smoke damage.
4. Steam Clean the Carpet
If the odor still lingers, steam cleaning is your best bet. A steam cleaner uses hot water extraction to remove smoke particles embedded deep in the carpet and padding. If you don’t have one, consider hiring a professional smoke damage restoration service.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Smoke-Damaged Carpet
- Don’t use scented sprays or air fresheners—they mask, not remove, the odor
- Don’t soak the carpet excessively—moisture can trap contaminants and lead to mold
- Don’t delay cleaning—the longer smoke sits, the harder it is to eliminate
- Don’t forget to clean nearby baseboards or walls, which may also hold odor
When to Replace vs. Restore Carpet
Sometimes, even a deep clean isn’t enough. Consider replacing your carpet if:
- The odor persists after multiple cleaning attempts
- The carpet was soaked during firefighting efforts
- The padding underneath was burned, melted, or contaminated
- You or your family experience headaches, allergies, or breathing issues from lingering smoke
A professional inspection can determine whether your carpet is salvageable or needs full replacement.
Need Help in NJ? Kraus Restoration Can Help
If your New Jersey home has suffered fire or smoke damage, Kraus Restoration is here to help. We specialize in odor removal, deep cleaning, and full fire damage restoration services. Whether you need help with your carpet, furniture, or entire home, our team is ready to respond.
📞 Call us today or visit krausrestoration.com to schedule your free evaluation.
