Skip to content

How to Get Rid of Weed Smell in Airbnb

Learn how to effectively get rid of the lingering smell of weed in your Airbnb. From understanding the issue to implementing quick solutions, deep cleaning, and preventive measures, this guide has you covered.

Share:

By Karolyn Hutson

Published on June 17, 2023

As an Airbnb host, you’ve likely encountered various challenges, including dealing with the lingering smell of smoke or weed when guests leave. This guide will walk you through practical steps to eliminate this odor and prevent it from happening in the future.

Understanding the Issue

The smell of weed in your Airbnb property can be more than just a nuisance. It can affect your reviews and property value and even incur additional cleaning costs. Let’s delve into why this smell lingers and the impact it has on Airbnb hosts.

Why does weed smell linger?

The distinctive smell of weed comes from compounds known as terpenes found in cannabis buds. When these buds are smoked, the burnt plant matter leaves a residue that can stick to surfaces and fabrics, causing the smell to linger. This is why even after your guests have left, the smell of weed can still be present in your Airbnb property.

Impact on Airbnb hosts

As an Airbnb host, the lingering smell of weed can have several negative impacts. It can lead to negative guest reviews, affecting your property’s overall rating. Additionally, the smell can decrease your property’s value and increase cleaning costs as you attempt to remove the odor.

Quick Solutions

When you need to get rid of the weed smell immediately, there are several quick solutions you can implement. These include ventilation, using HEPA air purifiers, odor neutralizers, natural remedies, and more.

Ventilation

Ventilating an Airbnb property to eliminate weed smell
Ventilating an Airbnb property to eliminate weed smell

One of the simplest and most effective ways to get rid of weed smell is by ventilating your property. Some ways to ventilate a house:

  • Open Windows and Doors: This is the most straightforward way to ventilate a house. Opening windows and doors allows fresh air to circulate and stale air to escape.
  • Use Fans: Fans can help circulate air more effectively. Position them near windows or doors to help push stale air out and draw fresh air in.
  • Install Exhaust Fans: Exhaust fans, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, can help remove moisture and odors and improve overall ventilation.
  • Use Air Conditioning Units: Many air conditioning units have a ventilation feature to help circulate air in your home.
  • Consider Cross Ventilation: If possible, open windows or doors on opposite sides of the house. This allows for cross ventilation, where fresh air is drawn in from one side and pushes stale air out from the other.
  • Use Attic Vents: If your house has an attic, ensure it is properly vented. Hot air naturally rises and can escape through attic vents, helping to draw fresh air in through windows and doors.
  • Use Window Ventilation Fans: These fans fit into window frames and can be adjusted to draw air in or push air out, improving ventilation.

HEPA Air Purifiers

High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) purifiers can be a great tool. These devices can filter out tiny particles, including those that carry the weed smell. Using a HEPA air purifier can help improve the air quality in your Airbnb property.

Odor Neutralizers

Products like Febreeze, air fresheners, and Ozium work by neutralizing the odors in the air. They don’t just mask the smell; they chemically neutralize it, helping to eliminate the weed smell in your Airbnb.

Natural Remedies

Natural remedies for eliminating weed smell
Natural remedies for eliminating weed smell

Natural remedies like ground coffee and burning rosemary can also help mask and neutralize the weed smell. These methods are cost-effective and can be easily implemented.

Deep Cleaning Solutions

When you have more time, deep cleaning solutions can more effectively remove the weed smell. These include cleaning methods you can do in a day or over a weekend.

Cleaning when you have a day

If you have a full day to clean, consider using incense, scented candles, or air freshener plug-ins. Additionally, thorough dusting and vacuuming can help remove any particles that carry the weed smell.

Cleaning when you have a weekend

For more thorough cleaning, consider carpet shampooing and hard surface cleaning. Using odor remover sprays can also help eliminate any lingering smells.

Preventive Measures

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some preventive measures to avoid having your Airbnb smell like weed in the first place.

Rules and regulations

Communicate your Airbnb rules to your guests. This includes your smoking policy. Ensure your guests understand that smoking weed on your property is prohibited.

Smoke-free alternatives for guests

If your guests are medical marijuana users, suggest smoke-free alternatives like dry herb vapes and concentrates. These options produce less smell and are less likely to leave a lingering odor.

Regular maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent the weed smell from settling in. This includes emptying bong water and keeping any weed in airtight containers.

Aftercare

After your guests have left, you can take a few more steps to ensure your Airbnb is fresh and ready for the next guest.

Cleaning Soft Surfaces

Soft surfaces like upholstery, curtains, and carpets can hold onto the weed smell. Consider using fabric refreshers or hiring a professional upholstery cleaner to thoroughly clean these items.

Washing Linens and Clothing

Any linens or clothing left behind by your guests should be washed immediately. Use a laundry detergent designed to eliminate odors for the best results.

Wrapping Up

Dealing with the smell of weed in your Airbnb can be a challenge, but with the right strategies, it’s a problem that can be solved. Understanding the issue, implementing quick solutions, deep cleaning, taking preventive measures, and performing thorough aftercare, you can ensure your Airbnb is always fresh, clean, and ready for your next guest.

Written by

With over six years of short-term rental hosting experience, Karolyn has helped hundreds of guests have an enjoyable experience. I love writing and am passionate about real estate, hospitality, and photography. Karolyn holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism and enjoys sharing her experiences to help others.