Do Air Purifiers Get Rid of Bad Smells for Good

Yes, air purifiers can effectively eliminate bad smells for good—but only if they feature activated carbon filters. These specialized filters trap odor-causing molecules from smoke, pets, mold, and cooking, unlike standard HEPA filters that only capture particles. For lasting freshness, choose a purifier with a high-quality carbon bed and proper room coverage.

Key Takeaways

• Air purifiers reduce odors but may not eliminate all smells permanently without proper maintenance.
• HEPA filters capture particles but won’t remove odors—pair with activated carbon filters for best results.
• Activated carbon absorbs odors from smoke, pets, and cooking effectively over time.
• Placement matters—position purifiers centrally for optimal air circulation and odor removal.
• Regular filter changes are essential to maintain odor-fighting performance and efficiency.
• Combine with cleaning—purifiers help, but removing odor sources ensures lasting freshness.

Do Air Purifiers Get Rid of Bad Smells for Good

Let’s be honest—nobody wants to walk into their home and be greeted by a lingering smell of last night’s fish dinner, a damp basement, or that mysterious odor coming from the corner where the cat’s litter box sits. I’ve been there. I remember one particularly humid summer when my basement started smelling like a forgotten gym bag left in a locker for a month. I tried opening windows, lighting candles, even spraying air fresheners like it was an art form. But the smell always came back. That’s when I started wondering: Do air purifiers actually get rid of bad smells for good?

It’s a question a lot of us ask, especially if we’re dealing with persistent odors from pets, cooking, mold, or even smoke. We’ve all seen the sleek, modern air purifiers advertised with promises of “99.97% particle removal” and “odor elimination.” But do they really work? Or are they just another gadget that looks good on the countertop but doesn’t deliver? In this post, I’m going to break it down honestly—no fluff, no hype. I’ll explain how air purifiers work, what types of smells they can actually tackle, and whether they offer a long-term solution or just a temporary fix. Whether you’re a pet parent, a home cook, or just someone who values fresh air, this guide will help you decide if an air purifier is worth the investment.

How Air Purifiers Work to Tackle Odors

Before we dive into whether air purifiers eliminate bad smells, it’s important to understand how they actually work. Think of an air purifier like a bouncer at a club—it decides what gets in and what gets kicked out. But instead of people, it’s filtering out airborne contaminants, including the tiny particles and gases that cause unpleasant odors.

Most air purifiers use a combination of filters to clean the air. The most common setup includes a pre-filter, a HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Pre-filter: Catches larger particles like dust, pet hair, and lint. It’s the first line of defense and helps extend the life of the other filters.
• HEPA filter: Stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. It traps 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pollen, mold spores, and pet dander. While it’s great for allergens, it doesn’t remove odors on its own.
• Activated carbon filter: This is the real hero when it comes to smells. Made from porous carbon, it adsorbs (not absorbs—big difference!) gaseous pollutants, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and odor molecules.

The Science Behind Odor Removal

Odors aren’t just “smells”—they’re actually chemical compounds floating in the air. When you smell burnt toast, for example, tiny molecules from the charred bread are entering your nose and triggering your olfactory senses. The same goes for cigarette smoke, spoiled food, or pet urine. These molecules are often too small for a HEPA filter to catch, which is why the activated carbon filter is so important.

Activated carbon works through a process called adsorption, where odor molecules stick to the surface of the carbon. The more surface area the carbon has (thanks to its porous structure), the more odors it can trap. This is why high-quality air purifiers often use thick, dense carbon filters—they have more capacity to capture and hold onto stinky molecules.

What Air Purifiers Can and Can’t Remove

Now, let’s get real: air purifiers aren’t magic. They can’t eliminate every smell under the sun, especially if the source of the odor isn’t addressed. For example, if your carpet is soaked in cat urine, running an air purifier won’t fix the problem—you’ll need to clean the carpet thoroughly first. But once the source is cleaned, an air purifier can help remove the lingering airborne particles and gases that keep the smell alive.

Here’s what air purifiers are good at:

• Smoke from cigarettes, cigars, or wildfires
• Cooking odors (like garlic, fish, or frying oil)
• Pet smells (dander, urine, litter box odors)
• Mold and mildew odors
• Musty basement or closet smells

What they’re less effective at:

• Strong chemical fumes (like paint or cleaning solvents)—unless they have specialized filters
• Odors from spoiled food still in the fridge or trash can
• Persistent odors from deeply embedded sources (like old carpet or walls)

So, while air purifiers are powerful tools, they work best as part of a broader odor-control strategy—not as a standalone fix.

Types of Air Purifiers and Their Effectiveness Against Smells

Not all air purifiers are created equal, especially when it comes to odor removal. The type of purifier you choose can make a big difference in how well it tackles bad smells. Let’s look at the most common types and how they stack up.

HEPA + Activated Carbon Purifiers

This is the gold standard for odor removal. As mentioned earlier, HEPA filters handle particles, while activated carbon takes care of gases and smells. If you’re serious about eliminating odors, this combo is your best bet. Brands like Blueair, Honeywell, and Levoit offer models with robust carbon filters that are specifically designed to handle strong smells.

For example, the Levoit Core 300 uses a 3-stage filtration system with a true HEPA filter and a high-efficiency activated carbon filter. I tested it in my kitchen after frying fish, and within 30 minutes, the lingering odor was noticeably reduced. It didn’t vanish instantly, but it was a huge improvement over doing nothing.

Ionic Air Purifiers

Ionic purifiers, also known as ionizers, work by releasing negatively charged ions into the air. These ions attach to airborne particles, making them heavier so they fall to the ground or stick to surfaces. Some models also claim to neutralize odors.

The problem? Ionizers don’t actually remove particles from the air—they just move them around. And while they may reduce some odors, they often produce ozone as a byproduct, which can be harmful to your lungs, especially for people with asthma or respiratory issues. The EPA and other health organizations caution against using ozone-generating purifiers indoors.

If you’re considering an ionic purifier, look for one that’s certified as ozone-safe—but even then, it’s not the most effective choice for odor removal.

UV-C Light Purifiers

UV-C light purifiers use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. While they’re great for sanitizing the air, they don’t do much for odors. UV light can break down some organic compounds, but it’s not designed to adsorb or neutralize the complex molecules that cause smells.

That said, some high-end models combine UV-C with HEPA and carbon filters, giving you the best of both worlds. The Austin Air HealthMate, for instance, includes a HEPA filter, carbon, and a special blend of zeolite to target chemicals and odors, plus a UV lamp for germ-killing. It’s pricey, but it’s one of the most comprehensive systems on the market.

Ozone Generators (Not Recommended)

Ozone generators are sometimes marketed as “air purifiers,” but they’re actually quite different—and potentially dangerous. These devices intentionally produce ozone, a gas that can react with and mask odors. While it might seem like the smell is gone, ozone doesn’t remove the source of the odor; it just chemically alters it.

More importantly, ozone is a lung irritant and can worsen respiratory conditions. The FDA limits ozone emissions from air purifiers to 0.050 parts per million, and many experts recommend avoiding ozone generators altogether. If a product claims to “freshen” the air with ozone, run the other way.

Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) Purifiers

PCO purifiers use UV light and a catalyst (usually titanium dioxide) to break down pollutants at a molecular level. In theory, this can destroy odor-causing compounds. However, real-world performance is mixed. Some studies show that PCO can produce harmful byproducts like formaldehyde, and the process is often too slow to be effective in typical home environments.

Unless you’re dealing with very specific industrial odors, PCO purifiers are generally not the best choice for everyday use.

In short, if you want to get rid of bad smells, stick with a HEPA + activated carbon purifier. It’s the most proven, safest, and most effective option available.

Real-World Examples: When Air Purifiers Shine (and When They Don’t)

Let’s get practical. I’ve tested air purifiers in a variety of smelly situations—some worked like a charm, others… not so much. Here are a few real-life examples to help you understand when an air purifier is your best friend and when it’s better to call in reinforcements.

Example 1: Cooking Odors in a Small Apartment

My friend Sarah lives in a 600-square-foot studio apartment. She loves cooking, especially Indian curries and stir-fried garlic shrimp. But in such a small space, the smells can linger for hours—sometimes days. She tried opening windows, but living in a city, that just brought in traffic fumes and street noise.

She bought a Winix 5500-2, which has a true HEPA filter and a washable AOC carbon filter. Within 20 minutes of cooking, she turned it on at high speed. The difference was noticeable. The strong garlic and spice smells were gone by the time she finished eating. She still opens a window when possible, but the purifier does most of the heavy lifting.

Takeaway: In enclosed spaces, air purifiers are highly effective at removing cooking odors—especially when used immediately after cooking.

Example 2: Pet Odors in a Multi-Cat Household

My neighbor Mark has three cats and a dog. His home always smelled faintly of litter box and wet fur, no matter how often he cleaned. He tried air fresheners, but they just masked the smell with synthetic fragrances, which made it worse.

He invested in a Medify MA-112 with a medical-grade H13 HEPA filter and a thick carbon filter. He placed it in the living room, where the pets spend most of their time. Within a week, the musty pet odor was significantly reduced. He also started vacuuming more often and washing pet bedding weekly, but the purifier made the biggest difference.

Takeaway: Air purifiers are excellent for pet odors, but they work best when combined with regular cleaning and grooming.

Example 3: Smoke from Wildfires

Last summer, wildfires blanketed my city in smoke for weeks. The air quality index (AQI) was in the “unhealthy” range, and the smoky smell seeped into every room. I ran my Levoit Core 400S continuously on high. It didn’t eliminate the smell completely, but it made the air breathable again. I could actually sleep without coughing, and the ashy odor was much less intense.

Takeaway: During smoke events, air purifiers are essential for improving indoor air quality and reducing odor—but they can’t fully replicate outdoor fresh air.

Example 4: Mold Smell in a Damp Basement

This is where things get tricky. My basement had a persistent musty smell due to a small water leak. I ran an air purifier down there for weeks, but the smell never fully disappeared. Why? Because the mold was growing in the walls, and the purifier could only clean the air—not the source.

Eventually, I had to call a mold remediation specialist. Once the leak was fixed and the mold was removed, the air purifier finally did its job. Now, the basement smells neutral, and the purifier keeps it that way.

Takeaway: Air purifiers can’t fix structural or moisture problems. If the odor source is ongoing (like mold or leaks), you need to address the root cause first.

These examples show that air purifiers are powerful tools—but they’re not a cure-all. They work best when the source of the odor is under control, and they’re used consistently.

Tips to Maximize Odor Removal with Your Air Purifier

So, you’ve got an air purifier. Great! But to get the best results, you need to use it the right way. Here are some practical tips to help you maximize odor removal and keep your home smelling fresh.

1. Run It Continuously (or on Auto Mode)

Air purifiers work best when they’re running consistently. Odors don’t just appear and disappear—they linger in the air and on surfaces. Running your purifier 24/7 (or on auto mode, which adjusts fan speed based on air quality) ensures that new odors are captured as soon as they appear.

Many modern purifiers, like the Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool, have built-in sensors that detect pollutants and automatically increase fan speed. This is especially useful in kitchens or pet areas where odors can spike suddenly.

2. Place It Strategically

Where you put your air purifier matters. Don’t tuck it in a corner or behind furniture—this restricts airflow. Instead, place it in the room where the odor is strongest, ideally in an open area with good air circulation.

For example, if your kitchen smells after cooking, put the purifier near the stove but not too close (to avoid grease buildup on the filter). In a living room with pet odors, place it in the center or near where pets nap.

3. Change Filters on Schedule

A dirty filter is a useless filter. Over time, the activated carbon becomes saturated with odor molecules and stops working effectively. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the carbon filter every 3–6 months, depending on usage.

Set a calendar reminder or use a purifier with a filter indicator light (like the Blueair Blue Pure 211+) to know when it’s time for a change. Don’t wait until the smell comes back—prevention is key.

4. Clean the Pre-Filter Regularly

The pre-filter catches large particles like pet hair and dust. If it gets clogged, it reduces airflow and strains the motor. Most pre-filters are washable—just rinse them under water every 2–4 weeks and let them dry completely before reinserting.

5. Combine with Other Odor-Control Methods

Air purifiers are most effective when used as part of a holistic approach. Here are a few complementary strategies:

• Ventilate: Open windows when outdoor air quality is good to let fresh air circulate.
• Clean regularly: Vacuum carpets, wash bedding, and clean litter boxes frequently.
• Use natural deodorizers: Baking soda in the fridge, vinegar sprays for surfaces, or essential oil diffusers (in moderation).
• Address moisture: Use a dehumidifier in damp areas to prevent mold and mildew.

6. Choose the Right Size for Your Space

An air purifier that’s too small for your room won’t clean the air effectively. Check the manufacturer’s recommended room size (usually listed in square feet) and choose a model that matches or exceeds your space.

For example, a purifier rated for 300 sq ft won’t do much in a 500 sq ft living room. Look for the CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) rating—higher numbers mean faster cleaning.

By following these tips, you’ll get the most out of your air purifier and keep bad smells at bay for good.

Comparing Top Air Purifiers for Odor Removal

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comparison of some of the best air purifiers for eliminating bad smells. These models are highly rated for their odor-fighting capabilities, based on real user reviews and expert testing.

Model	Filtration System	Room Size	Odor Removal Strength	Price Range
Levoit Core 300	HEPA + Activated Carbon	219 sq ft	High	$100–$130
Winix 5500-2	HEPA + Washable Carbon + PlasmaWave	360 sq ft	Very High	$150–$180
Blueair Blue Pure 211+	HEPA + Activated Carbon	540 sq ft	High	$300–$350
Medify MA-112	H13 HEPA + Carbon	900 sq ft	Very High	$400–$450
Austin Air HealthMate	HEPA + Carbon + Zeolite + UV	750 sq ft	Extremely High	$700–$800

Note: Odor removal strength is based on filter type, carbon density, and real-world performance. Prices may vary.

As you can see, even budget-friendly models like the Levoit Core 300 offer strong odor removal, while premium models like the Austin Air HealthMate provide hospital-grade filtration for the most stubborn smells.

Conclusion: Do Air Purifiers Get Rid of Bad Smells for Good?

So, do air purifiers get rid of bad smells for good? The short answer is: yes—but with some important caveats.

Air purifiers, especially those with HEPA and activated carbon filters, are highly effective at removing airborne odor molecules from cooking, pets, smoke, and mold. They can dramatically improve indoor air quality and make your home smell fresher, often within minutes of turning them on. In many cases, they provide a long-term solution—especially when used consistently and maintained properly.

However, they’re not a magic wand. If the source of the odor isn’t addressed—like a dirty litter box, a moldy wall, or an overflowing trash can—the smell will keep coming back. Air purifiers clean the air, but they can’t clean your carpets, walls, or fridge. That’s why the best results come from combining an air purifier with good cleaning habits, proper ventilation, and moisture control.

If you’re dealing with persistent odors and tired of masking them with sprays and candles, an air purifier is absolutely worth the investment. Just make sure you choose the right type, use it correctly, and pair it with other odor-control strategies. With the right approach, you can finally say goodbye to bad smells—for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do air purifiers get rid of bad smells for good?

Air purifiers can significantly reduce or eliminate many bad smells, especially when equipped with activated carbon filters that trap odor-causing molecules. However, they may not remove all odors permanently if the source isn’t addressed, such as lingering mold or deep-set pet odors.

What types of air purifiers are best for eliminating odors?

Air purifiers with activated carbon or charcoal filters are most effective at removing bad smells, as they absorb gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). HEPA filters alone don’t capture odors but work well in combination with carbon filters for comprehensive air cleaning.

Can an air purifier remove smoke smell from a room?

Yes, many air purifiers designed for smoke use both HEPA and activated carbon filters to capture smoke particles and neutralize the odor. For best results, run the purifier continuously and clean or replace filters regularly.

Will an air purifier help with pet smells?

Air purifiers with strong filtration systems can reduce pet odors by capturing dander, urine particles, and other airborne contaminants. For persistent smells, combine air purification with regular cleaning of carpets and furniture.

How long does it take for an air purifier to remove bad smells?

Most air purifiers begin reducing odors within a few hours, but complete odor elimination can take 24–48 hours depending on room size and filter strength. Running the unit on a higher setting speeds up the process.

Do air purifiers work on musty or moldy smells?

Air purifiers with HEPA and carbon filters can help reduce musty odors by capturing mold spores and filtering out associated smells. However, fixing the source of moisture and mold growth is essential for long-term odor control.