No one likes the smell of potting soil, especially when it’s in their homes. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to get rid of the odor.
It’s important to remember that potting soil is made up of organic matter, which means it will decompose over time. This process creates an odor that can be strong and unpleasant.
What Causes the Odor in Potting Soil and Why is it a Problem
The main cause of the odor in potting soil is the decomposition of organic matter. As the organic matter breaks down, it releases a gas that has a strong, unpleasant smell.
This gas can be a problem for two reasons:
- It can be difficult to get rid of the smell once it’s in your home.
- The gas can be harmful to your health if you breathe it in.
How to Get Rid of Potting Soil Smell
There are a few things you can do to get rid of the smell of potting soil:
- Use an air freshener: Air fresheners can help to mask the smell of potting soil.
- Put the potting soil in a container: If you have a lot of potting soil, it may be best to put it in a container with a lid. This will help to contain the smell.
- Add some charcoal: Adding some charcoal to the potting soil can help to absorb the odor.
- Give it time: The best way to get rid of the potting soil smell is to simply give it time. The odor will eventually go away on its own.
- Throw it out: If the potting soil is old or you can’t get rid of the smell, you may need to throw it out and start fresh.
Eliminating or Reducing the Odor Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is a common household item that can be used to eliminate odors. It’s inexpensive and easy to find, making it a great option for getting rid of the potting soil smell.
To use baking soda, simply sprinkle it over the top of the potting soil. You can also add it to the water when you’re watering the plants.
Let the baking soda sit for a few hours before vacuum it up.
You may need to repeat this process several times to get rid of the odor completely.
How to Choose the Right Potting Soil
When you’re potting plants, it’s important to choose the right potting soil. Not all potting soils are created equal, and some are more likely to cause an odor than others.
Here are a few things to look for when choosing potting soil:
- Look for potting soil that is labeled “odor-free.”
- Choose potting soil that is made from inorganic materials, such as perlite or vermiculite.
- Avoid potting soil that contains peat moss. Peat moss is a common ingredient in potting soil, but it is also one of the main causes of odor.
Potting soil can cause a strong, unpleasant odor. However, there are a few things you can do to get rid of the smell. Air fresheners, baking soda, and charcoal can all help to absorb the odor. You can also try putting the potting soil in a container or giving it time to air out. If the smell persists, you may need to throw out the potting soil and start fresh.
