How do I prevent smoke problems indoors?

How do I prevent smoke problems indoors? - Confident female in sunglasses and protective mask in room with neon lights and smoke

I live in a small apartment, and the kitchen is tucked away in a corner without any outside ventilation (windows or stovetop exhaust). Every once in a while I'll be cooking and something will start to smoke (a different problem, I know!) and the smoke detector will go off. How do I eliminate or reduce the amount of ambient smoke? I don't have access to external ventilation.



Best Answer

As SAJ14SAJ said, the best solution is to simply not live in a place like that - it can be a bit dangerous.

But since you're there, about the only thing you can do is get a decent fan and use it to direct air out of the kitchen toward rooms with open windows. Depending on the layout (and the fans) you may need multiple fans, and might want one of them to be a box fan in the window helping push air out.

For things you think may be smoky, you might also consider cooking outside if possible, on a hot plate, a camping stove, or a small grill. (Or you could just not do them at all.)




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How do I prevent smoke problems indoors? - White sculpture of Apollo with medical mask on face in bright neon light on purple background
How do I prevent smoke problems indoors? - Young guy lighting cigarette and smoking while sitting in armchair near window at home
How do I prevent smoke problems indoors? - From above unrecognizable black man wearing protective mask on face of ethnic kid standing in room near window closed with curtain



Quick Answer about "How do I prevent smoke problems indoors?"

  • Avoid smoking indoors (but quitting smoking is the best answer for overall health).
  • Use craft supplies in well-ventilated areas.
  • Make sure your gas stove is well-ventilated.
  • Minimize clutter.
  • Remove carpeting if possible.
  • Use a dehumidifier and/or air conditioner to reduce moisture.


  • How do I stop smoke from coming inside?

    Install door draft excluders under doors that open into hallways and common areas. Seal around windows with caulk or weather stripping. This will prevent smoke from entering your unit and will increase your energy efficiency.

    How do I make my house smoke proof?

    How to Smoke in Your Room Without Smelling It
  • Turn on an air purifier. One of the best ways to treat indoor smoke is by turning on an air purifier. ...
  • Open a window. ...
  • Close any air vents. ...
  • Put a wet towel by the closed door. ...
  • Put your hair up & limit clothing. ...
  • Mask the smell. ...
  • Keep it short. ...
  • Freshen up.


  • What can repel smoke?

    • First, open some windows and air out the space.
    • Use baking soda to absorb smoky smells.
    • Neutralize smoke odors with a vinegar wash.
    • Trap stale smoke using activated charcoal.
    • Steam away the smoke smell.
    • Invest in an air purifier for smoke.
    • Change the air filters in your HVAC system.


    Does a humidifier help with smoke in the air?

    Humidifiers are not air cleaners, and will not significantly reduce the amount of particles in the air during a smoke event. Nor will they remove gases like carbon monoxide.



    How to Avoid Wood Stove Smoke Indoors | Regency




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