Eliminating Lingering Scents In Old Cologne Sprayers

If you want to get rid of the smell from an old cologne sprayer, you have several options. Firstly, you could try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to wash down the sprayer. Alternatively, you could try using a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, or even just hydrogen peroxide and water. Vodka or rubbing alcohol can also be used to remove odours on walls and furnishings. If none of these methods work, you could try sealing in the smell with shellac, or even removing and replacing the walls.

Use baking soda or vinegar to wash down the sprayer

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is an alkaline substance that can help neutralise acidic odours. Its molecules react with odorous substances, creating a temporary neutralising effect. This chemical reaction results in the release of carbon dioxide and water, reducing the intensity of the odour.

To use baking soda to wash down the sprayer, create a paste by mixing it with water. You can then use this paste to clean and deodorise the sprayer. Alternatively, you can sprinkle baking soda on a surface and let it sit for a few hours before wiping away the residue.

Vinegar, on the other hand, is an acidic substance that can interact with volatile compounds that cause odours, altering their chemical composition and reducing their intensity. When used as a wash, dilute vinegar with water.

While both baking soda and vinegar can help mask odours, they do not possess the power to completely eliminate them. They are better used separately, as mixing them can neutralise their cleaning capabilities.

Use baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to clean the sprayer

Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can be used to clean and remove the smell from an old cologne sprayer. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

• Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a base compound, while hydrogen peroxide is a weak acid. When combined, they create a powerful cleaning mixture that breaks down grease and stain molecules, making them easier to remove.
• It is important to note that you should never mix and store baking soda and hydrogen peroxide in a closed container. The mixture should be prepared right before cleaning for the best results. The reaction between the two substances can cause a buildup of carbon dioxide gas, leading to dangerous consequences when opening the container.
• Wear protective gloves and eye protection when handling hydrogen peroxide as it can irritate the skin and eyes.

Step 2: Create a Paste

Combine baking soda and hydrogen peroxide in a small bowl to form a paste. The exact measurements can vary depending on the size of the cologne sprayer and the severity of the odour. A good starting point is to mix two-thirds of baking soda with one-third of hydrogen peroxide. Adjust the proportions as needed.

Step 3: Apply the Paste

Using a small brush or cotton swab, carefully apply the paste to the interior and exterior surfaces of the cologne sprayer. Ensure that you cover all areas, including tight spaces and crevices, where odours may be lingering.

Step 4: Let it Sit

Allow the paste to remain on the cologne sprayer for at least 30 minutes. During this time, the mixture will work to break down the odour-causing molecules and loosen any built-up residue.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

After the waiting period, use a damp cloth or sponge to gently wipe away the paste from the cologne sprayer. Rinse the sprayer with clean water to remove any remaining residue. Dry the sprayer thoroughly with a soft cloth or paper towel.

Step 6: Repeat if Necessary

If the odour persists or there are still signs of residue, you may need to repeat the process. Reapply the paste, ensuring that you thoroughly cover all surfaces. Let it sit for a longer period, such as 45 minutes to an hour, before rinsing and drying again.

Additional Tips:

• For extremely stubborn odours, you can also try adding a small amount of mild dish soap to the paste. This will enhance the cleaning power of the mixture.
• Always test the paste on a small, inconspicuous area of the cologne sprayer before applying it to the entire surface. This will help ensure that the mixture does not cause any discolouration or damage to the material.
• If the cologne sprayer has any removable parts, such as a nozzle or cap, disassemble them before cleaning for more thorough odour removal.
• Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can also be used to clean other household items like laundry, beauty tools, carpets, and bathroom surfaces.

Use vodka or rubbing alcohol to remove the smell

Vodka or rubbing alcohol can be used to remove the smell from an old cologne sprayer. Here are some detailed steps to help you get rid of the smell:

Step 1: Prepare the Vodka or Rubbing Alcohol

Pour the vodka or rubbing alcohol into a spray bottle. This will make it easy to apply the liquid to the cologne sprayer.

Step 2: Apply the Vodka or Rubbing Alcohol

Spritz the vodka or rubbing alcohol directly onto the cologne sprayer, especially on areas with a heavy smell. The alcohol will help neutralise the odour.

Step 3: Let it Dry

Allow the cologne sprayer to dry completely. The alcohol will evaporate, taking the unpleasant odour along with it.

Step 4: Repeat if Necessary

If the smell persists, you may need to repeat the above steps multiple times. The intensity of the odour will gradually decrease with each application.

Tips:

• While vodka is effective at removing odours, it is not a good idea to use your finest vodka for this purpose. Opt for a cheaper bottle as the high alcohol content is what gives it its odour-eliminating power.
• If you are dealing with a particularly stubborn smell, you can also try soaking the cologne sprayer in a mixture of vodka or rubbing alcohol and water. Submerge the sprayer completely and let it soak for a few hours or even a few days. Then, rinse and dry the sprayer before testing to see if the smell has diminished.

Try using citrus oils to remove oil-based chemicals

Citrus oils are a natural degreaser and can help remove oil-based chemicals. They can be used on floors, walls, and most furniture. Citrus oils contain D-Limonene, which can dissolve other hydrocarbons, including petroleum-based plastics.

To use citrus oils to remove oil-based chemicals, follow these steps:

• Identify the source of the oil-based chemical. This could be a stain on a piece of furniture, a spill on the floor, or a residue on the walls.
• Obtain some citrus oil. You can purchase this at most home improvement or natural food stores.
• Test the citrus oil on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the surface.
• Apply the citrus oil to the affected area. Use a cloth or sponge to work the oil into the surface.
• Allow the citrus oil to sit for several minutes. This will give it time to break down the oil-based chemical.
• Use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe away the treated area.
• Repeat the process if necessary until the oil-based chemical is removed.

Note: If you have chemical sensitivities, use caution when working with citrus oils, as some people may not tolerate them well. Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection.

Seal in the smell with water-based products

Water-based products are typically not good at sealing in fragrance and smoke. However, they can work on some odourants but not others. The best option is a paint with zeolite, which can help to absorb some VOCs.

Water-based sealants are either acrylic or polyurethane-based. They are typically not good at sealing in fragrance and smoke because the fragrance emulsifies into the coating while you are applying it.

For example, ECOs Purifying Primer barely helped at all in sealing in fragrance and smoke. AFM HardSeal did help a little bit with the Febreze odours in my tests.

If you are sealing fragrance and smoke, you first want to try to wash the material with a degreaser or mineral spray.

Frequently asked questions