We’ve often heard that animals like pigs, dogs, and rats have far better sniffers than we do. But science now says otherwise. Human noses can detect over a trillion different scents, and even pick up on emotions like fear and disgust.

So, it’s no surprise that a bad smell in the home can trigger serious discomfort.

“It’s one of the most common calls we get,” says Bob Hillier, President of Paul Davis of Greater Houston. “A customer says, ‘something smells bad, but we can’t figure out what it is.’ Odds are, it’s coming from one of ten usual suspects. Most of them you can fix yourself,  no restoration crew needed.”

Let’s break them down.

1. Garbage Bins

Sometimes it’s not the garbage, it’s the bin. Even after taking out the trash, lingering bacteria inside the container can keep the smell going. Wash bins regularly with soap and hot water, or use a disinfecting cleaner to reset the smell.

2. Bedding

You can’t always see it, but pillows and sheets collect dead skin, hair, sweat, and pet dander. You should wash bedding weekly, especially pillowcases. Believe it or not, lab studies have found unwashed pillowcases can carry more bacteria than a toilet seat.

3. Front-Loading Washers

That rubber gasket around the door? It traps moisture, and that leads to mildew. Wipe it dry after every use and leave the door slightly open so the interior dries fully.

4. Dishwashers

Yes, they need cleaning too. Food debris can clog the spray arms or drain, causing stagnant water and a nasty odour. Use dishwasher cleaning tablets monthly to keep things fresh.

5. Sink Disposals

Kitchen sinks can be dirtier than your toilet. The disposal? Even worse. Use a commercial cleaner made for garbage disposals, or drop in baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water, t

neutralize the smell.

6. New Furniture or Carpet

That “new smell” isn’t always harmless. Many manufactured materials release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), basically, airborne chemicals. If you’ve just installed carpet or bought a new sofa, try ventilating the space to clear the air.

7. Sewage Smell

This is one you shouldn’t ignore. It might be a backed-up sewer line, a clogged vent, or a hidden leak. Sewage is a biohazard. If you smell it, call in professionals right away.

8. Moisture or Mould

If there’s a damp or musty smell and you can’t find the source, mould may be growing behind the scenes. That’s a job for remediation experts. The moisture issue has to be fixed first, then the mould safely removed.

9. Pets

We love them, but they smell. Hair, oils, dander, and the odd “accident” create a scent profile no candle can mask. Wash pet beds and bowls often, and clean up any messes with enzymatic pet odour products.

10. Rotting Food

Sometimes the worst smells come from a single forgotten item. Potatoes are the worst offenders,  one rotting spud in a basement bag can stink up an entire house.

If there’s a mystery smell lingering in your home and you can’t track it down, we can help.

Call Paul Davis at 1-800-661-5975 for professional odour assessment and remediation.

Don’t just cover it up. Get it gone — the right way.