Our sense of smell is powerful. When we breathe in a scent, it goes straight to parts of the brain tied to memory and emotion, that’s why a simple whiff can transport us back in time.

If the smell is warm cookies, it might bring comfort. But if it’s lingering smoke from a fire you survived, it can stir up anxiety and pain.

That’s why at Paul Davis, we take smoke odour removal seriously. Using advanced technology, we eliminate those stubborn, often invisible reminders from your furniture, clothing, and fabrics, not just to restore your belongings, but to help restore peace of mind.

Why Smoke Odour Lingers, and Why It Matters

Even items that look unaffected can trap smoke deep in their fibres. And over time, heat, moisture, or simple air movement can bring that odour back. Without proper treatment, smoke particles can:

• Continue degrading fabrics and upholstery
  
• Trigger health issues or respiratory irritation
  
• Resurface long after a fire is over
  
  

“Removing odours isn’t just cosmetic,” says Darren Impson, President of Paul Davis Restoration of Tampa. “If you don’t neutralize the particles, they react with materials and make them permanently unusable.”

How We Remove Smoke Odours - Safely and Scientifically

Our teams approach each item with care and precision, choosing from a range of cutting-edge tools and methods:

1. Chemical Treatments

• Ozone: A natural gas that displaces smoke particles and leaves a fresh, clean scent
  
• Hydroxyls: Generated using custom machines that mimic sunlight’s natural cleaning effect
  
• Encapsulation formulas: Special Paul Davis products that trap and neutralize odour molecules
  
  

2. Physical Techniques

• Ultrasonic cleaning: Uses sound wave-generated bubbles to lift odour from deep within fabrics
  
• Pressurized vapour: Penetrates materials to push out contaminants without damaging fibres
  
  

3. Custom Cleaning Solutions

We combine powerful degreasers, brighteners, anti-mould agents, and non-fragranced deodorizers to safely clean and restore items, including delicate or specialty materials.

4. Advanced Handling

Leather, vinyl, and coated fabrics often need multiple treatments, including hand-washing, steam application, and careful agitation. Most textiles go through several cleaning phases over a few days.

When Restoring Memories Matters Most

From plush toys to family heirlooms, Paul Davis has helped thousands of Canadians reclaim treasured items after a fire.

“Restoring a smoke-free stuffed animal for a child who’s been through a house fire is about more than just cleaning,” says Impson. “It’s about healing.”

If your home has smoke-damaged items, call Paul Davis Canada at 1-800-661-5975. We're ready to help, with science, compassion, and results.