Keep the Home Fresh This Season

(Family Features) Whether you’re inviting friends over for a dinner party or just want to make your abode a more comfortable environment for your family, battling tough odors can be quite a challenge. Avoid the short-lived results of covering up odors with fragrances, sprays and candles and spend your time and energy instead on getting to the root of the smelly problem.

From the basement to the attic and all the rooms in between, active families know keeping the air at home fresh is an ongoing battle. In fact, according to a recent survey conducted by Church & Dwight Co., Inc., maker of Arm & Hammer Cat Litter, 55 percent of cat owners have avoided or considered not inviting guests over because of the way their home smelled. The survey also revealed that more than 1 in 3 cat owners say litter box odors are more embarrassing for guests to notice than a clogged toilet.

Tips to Make the Air AgreeableWhile keeping your home odor-free may sound like an impossible feat, there are ways to combat its unpleasant presence. Here are some simple ways to make your home welcoming for your family and anyone else who may drop in:

Change Filters Regularly: Over time, the filters in your air conditioning, heating and air ventilating systems can take on any harsh odors present in the home. It’s easy to stop the cycle of odors circulating through your home by stocking up on new filters. Set calendar reminders to change them out on a regular basis.

Keep Pet Odors at Bay: Odor issues can be a major issue for pet owners – and top of mind for the guests who visit them. According to the survey, 77 percent of Americans believe they can tell if someone has a cat just by the smell of their home. For those with cats, keeping the litter box fresh can be a never-ending task. Eliminate unwanted smells by scooping regularly and using a litter, such as Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Cat Litter. Its breakthrough technology forms a tight seal around odor and destroys it with powerful odor eliminators and Arm & Hammer Baking Soda for a seven-day odor-free home – guaranteed. Learn more at www.ClumpandSeal.com.

Pop Open the Windows: A fresh breeze of air coupled with warm sunshine is one of the most natural and effective ways to remove bad odors from your living space.

Be Aware of Your Surfaces: Carpets, window treatments, bedding and walls are all household surfaces that can lock in strong smells and stains. Though these may not be items you focus on in your regular cleaning routines, using a product like baking soda several times throughout the year can make a major difference. Simply sprinkle baking soda onto surfaces and let it sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming.

A hospitable home starts with fresh, odor-free air. For more tips on preventing and eliminating odors, visit www.armandhammer.com.

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