
When it comes to creating a positive experience for guests in your home or short-term rental, the ambiance plays a crucial role. One often overlooked aspect is the scent of the space. A pleasantly fragrant environment can leave a lasting impression and contribute to a memorable stay. In this article, we'll explore practical tips to ensure your home or short-term rental smells inviting, from choosing low-odor cleaning products to incorporating natural elements that enhance the overall olfactory experience.
Low-Odor Cleaning Products
The choice of cleaning products significantly influences the scent of your short-term rental. Opting for low-odor or unscented cleaning products is critical to preventing overpowering artificial scents that may not appeal to everyone.
Many cleaning products come with strong, artificial fragrances. While these may initially seem pleasant, they can be overwhelming, especially for guests with sensitivities or allergies. Choose mild, unscented cleaning agents to ensure a clean, fresh-smelling space without triggering adverse reactions.

Bring in the Fresh Air
There's nothing quite like the natural scent of fresh air to invigorate a space. Opening windows allows for ventilation, letting in the crisp outdoor breeze and dispelling any stagnant or unpleasant odors that linger from previous renters.
Before your short-term rental guests arrive, make it a routine to open windows and let the fresh air circulate. This helps eliminate any lingering odors and contributes to a healthier indoor environment. Airing out the space is particularly beneficial after cleaning or when guests are transitioning between stays.
Activated Charcoal and Air Purifiers
Combatting odors goes beyond surface cleaning. Consider incorporating natural odor-absorbing elements like activated charcoal strategically placed in problem areas.
Placing activated charcoal in the fridge and hidden spots, such as closets or cabinets, is an excellent way to absorb odors at the source. Activated charcoal acts like a natural purifier, trapping and neutralizing unwanted scents. This simple, cost-effective solution can be a game-changer for maintaining a consistently fresh-smelling space.
Investing in an air purifier is another proactive step that removes odors and enhances air quality. Air purifiers are designed to capture and eliminate particles contributing to unpleasant smells, making them an excellent choice for homes and rentals. Additionally, they can be particularly beneficial for guests with allergies or sensitivities.
Deep Cleaning

Maintaining a consistently pleasant scent in your home or rental property requires thorough and regular cleaning. Deep cleaning between guests ensures that every nook and cranny is addressed, leaving no room for lingering odors.
Clean and freshly laundered bedding, linens, and towels contribute significantly to the overall scent of a space. Regularly washing and changing these items enhances the olfactory experience and aligns with the highest standards of cleanliness expected by guests.
Give special attention to elements of your short-term rental that can harbor odors, such as carpets, upholstery, and curtains. Routine, professional cleaning minimizes smells, and a clean and well-maintained space is the foundation for a pleasant-smelling environment.
Replacement
When all else fails, it might be time to consider replacing items contributing to persistent and unpleasant odors. This step is particularly relevant for items that are challenging to clean thoroughly.
When you can identify items that repeatedly harbor odors, such as pillows, upholstery, or rugs, you may want to consider replacement. Over time, certain materials can trap smells that are difficult to eliminate through cleaning alone. A fresh start with new, odor-free items can make a significant difference in the overall ambiance of your space.
Want to Learn More?
Creating a welcoming and pleasant-smelling atmosphere in your home or short-term rental is essential to providing an exceptional guest experience. From opting for low-odor cleaning products to embracing natural odor-absorbing elements like activated charcoal, these tips ensure your space looks clean and smells inviting.
LMT Perfection offers co-hosting and short-term rental supervision combined with exceptional cleaning services. That's why we can help property owners in Central PA consistently maintain clean, fresh-smelling rentals. Contact us here to find out more.