14/05/2026

LYFE THURSDAY | MAY 14, 2026

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Malaysian Paper

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Ű BY ASHIQIN AHMAD

A home that smells fresh instantly feels more inviting. It sets the tone the moment you walk through the door and often leaves a lasting impression on guests. While candles, sprays and air fresheners can offer a quick fix, keeping your space consistently pleasant goes beyond masking odours. It comes down to simple, everyday habits that improve air quality and eliminate smells at their source. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can create an environment that feels as fresh as it looks. Let the air flow One of the most effective ways to refresh your home is also the simplest. Opening your windows allows fresh air to circulate, pushing out stale odours that tend to build up in enclosed spaces. Even if it is just for 15 to 20 minutes a day, letting in a natural breeze can make a noticeable difference. This is especially important in areas such as bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms, where humidity and daily activities can cause lingering smells. Good airflow not only improves how your home smells but also helps reduce moisture that can lead to mustiness over time. Add subtle scent with reed diffusers For a more consistent fragrance, reed diffusers are a practical and low maintenance option. Unlike candles, they do not require monitoring, and they release scent gradually throughout the day. The key lies in choosing fragrances that suit your space and the mood you want to create. If you are going for a luxurious, hotel-like atmosphere, scents such as oud or orchid work well. For something lighter and more refreshing, gardenia offers a clean and uplifting feel. Musk is a popular choice for those who prefer a subtle, just-washed scent, while amber creates a warmer, cozier environment. Vanilla, on the other hand, adds a soft sweetness that feels welcoming without being overwhelming. Placing diffusers in high-traffic areas such as the living room or entryway ensures the scent is noticeable without being overpowering. Neutralise odours with charcoal Rather than covering up unpleasant smells, charcoal works by absorbing them. Charcoal neutralisers are particularly effective in areas where

Reed diffusers and candles are a simple way to keep your home smelling nice.

Home, sweet-smelling home

A clean home can also improve happiness and productivity. – ALL PICS FROM 123RF

o Using scents to set tone, atmosphere

odours tend to linger, such as shoe racks, wardrobes, kitchens and bathrooms. They are especially useful for tackling musty smells caused by dampness or lack of ventilation. Since charcoal is fragrance-free, it helps keep the air clean without competing with other scents in your home. This makes it a practical option for those who prefer a more natural approach to maintaining freshness. Do not neglect soft surfaces When cleaning, it is easy to focus on visible surfaces such as floors and countertops but soft furnishings often go overlooked. Sofas, cushions, curtains and carpets can trap odours from daily

prevent smells from building up. Cleaning the bins themselves from time to time can also help eliminate lingering odours that might otherwise go unnoticed. Fresher home, every day Keeping your home smelling good does not require complicated routines or an overload of products. It is about consistency and paying attention to the small details that are often overlooked. By allowing fresh air in, choosing the right scents, neutralising odours and maintaining cleanliness in visible and hidden areas, you can create a space that feels clean, comfortable and welcoming. In the end, a fresh-smelling home is not just about fragrance. It is about creating an environment that supports everyday living – one that feels as good as it looks.

simple way to introduce a natural element into your space while improving its atmosphere. Plants such as snake plants can help boost oxygen leven and reduce certain airborne pollutants to create a sense of calm, which adds to the overall comfort of your home. Even a few well-placed plants can make a noticeable difference, visually and in how your space feels. Stay on top of rubbish It may seem obvious but taking out the rubbish regularly is one of the most important steps in keeping your home smelling good. Letting rubbish sit for too long, especially in the kitchen, can quickly lead to unpleasant odours that spread throughout the house. Making it a habit to empty bins frequently, particularly after disposing of food waste, helps

use, spills and even humidity. Over time, these fabrics can develop a stale or musty smell that lingers in the background. Giving these items regular attention can make a big difference. Washing cushion covers, vacuuming upholstery and occasionally deep cleaning carpets help remove trapped bacteria and odours. Curtains, too, benefit from a periodic wash, especially in homes exposed to cooking smells or dust. A simple routine of cleaning these surfaces once a month can help maintain a consistently fresh environment. Bring in plants Houseplants do more than just brighten up a room. They can also contribute to cleaner air, making your home feel fresher overall. Becoming a plant parent is a

Snake plants are excellent, low maintenance indoor plants that purify air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.