Do Air Purifiers Get Rid of Smell and Odors

Yes, air purifiers can effectively eliminate odors and unpleasant smells by capturing odor-causing particles like smoke, pet dander, and cooking fumes through advanced filtration systems, especially those with activated carbon filters. While they don’t remove all odors instantly, high-quality air purifiers significantly reduce lingering smells when used consistently in properly sized spaces, improving overall indoor air quality and freshness.

Key Takeaways

• Air purifiers with activated carbon filters effectively trap and neutralize odors from smoke, pets, and cooking.
• HEPA filters alone cannot remove smells—they capture particles but not gaseous odors.
• Choose a purifier with both HEPA and carbon filters for comprehensive odor and particle removal.
• Regular filter replacement is essential to maintain odor-fighting performance over time.
• Room size matters—ensure the purifier is rated for your space to effectively reduce odors.
• Combine air purifiers with ventilation for faster and more complete odor elimination.

Do Air Purifiers Get Rid of Smell and Odors?

Let’s be honest—no one wants their home to smell like last night’s fish dinner, a damp gym bag, or a litter box that hasn’t been cleaned in a few days. We’ve all been there. You light a candle, spray some air freshener, and hope for the best. But those quick fixes only mask the problem temporarily. The real question is: can an air purifier actually eliminate odors, or is it just another gadget that collects dust on the shelf?

As someone who once lived with a roommate who loved frying bacon at 6 a.m. (on weekends!), I know firsthand how persistent cooking smells can be. I also have a dog who, despite being adorable, occasionally brings in that “wet dog” scent after a rainy walk. I tried everything—open windows, essential oil diffusers, even baking cookies to cover the smell. But nothing truly solved the issue until I started researching air purifiers. That’s when I realized: not all air purifiers are created equal when it comes to odor removal. Some are fantastic at tackling smells, while others barely make a dent. So, do air purifiers get rid of smell and odors? The short answer is yes—but only if you choose the right one and use it correctly.

How Do Air Purifiers Work to Remove Odors?

To understand whether air purifiers can eliminate odors, it helps to know how they actually work. Unlike air fresheners that just cover up smells with fragrances, air purifiers aim to remove the source of the odor from the air. They do this by pulling air through a series of filters that trap particles, gases, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—many of which are responsible for unpleasant smells.

The Role of Different Filters in Odor Removal

Most air purifiers use a combination of filters, and each plays a unique role in odor control:

• Pre-filter: This is the first line of defense. It captures larger particles like pet hair, dust, and lint. While it doesn’t remove odors directly, it helps protect the more advanced filters and extends their lifespan.
• HEPA filter: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are excellent at trapping tiny particles, including pollen, mold spores, and pet dander. These allergens can contribute to musty or stale smells, so removing them helps improve overall air freshness.
• Activated carbon filter: This is the star player when it comes to odor removal. Made from porous carbon material, it adsorbs (not absorbs—there’s a difference!) gases, smoke, cooking fumes, and chemical odors. Think of it like a sponge for smells.
• Photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) or UV-C light: Some advanced models include UV light or PCO technology to break down odor-causing molecules at a molecular level. These are less common and not always necessary, but they can help with stubborn odors like mildew or bacteria-related smells.

For example, if you’ve ever noticed a lingering smell after smoking indoors, an air purifier with a strong activated carbon filter can significantly reduce that odor within hours. Similarly, if your kitchen always smells like garlic or onions after cooking, a purifier with a carbon filter can help pull those volatile compounds out of the air before they settle on your curtains or furniture.

Adsorption vs. Absorption: Why It Matters

You might hear the terms “adsorption” and “absorption” used when discussing carbon filters. While they sound similar, they’re not the same. Absorption is when a substance is taken into another material—like a sponge soaking up water. Adsorption, on the other hand, is when molecules stick to the surface of a material. Activated carbon works through adsorption: odor molecules cling to the vast surface area inside the carbon pores, effectively removing them from the air.

This is why a high-quality activated carbon filter can hold onto smoke, pet odors, and chemical smells without releasing them back into the room. However, once the carbon becomes saturated, it can no longer adsorb new odors—so regular filter replacement is essential.

Types of Odors Air Purifiers Can (and Can’t) Remove

Not all smells are created equal, and neither are air purifiers. Some odors are easier to eliminate than others, depending on their source and chemical makeup. Let’s break down what air purifiers can realistically handle—and where they might fall short.

Common Household Odors Air Purifiers Can Eliminate

• Cooking smells: Fried foods, burnt toast, fish, garlic, and onions release strong-smelling compounds into the air. An air purifier with a carbon filter can capture these VOCs effectively. I’ve tested this myself—after frying salmon, running my purifier for an hour reduced the smell by about 80%.
• Pet odors: Dogs, cats, and other pets produce dander, saliva, and natural oils that contribute to that “pet smell.” While HEPA filters trap dander, the activated carbon layer is what tackles the actual odor molecules. If you have a cat that uses a litter box, placing the purifier nearby can make a noticeable difference.
• Smoke (tobacco, wildfire, cooking): Smoke particles and gases are among the most challenging odors to remove, but high-quality air purifiers with thick carbon filters can significantly reduce them. During wildfire season, many people rely on air purifiers to keep indoor air breathable.
• Mold and mildew: Musty smells from damp basements or bathrooms often come from mold spores and microbial VOCs. HEPA filters capture spores, while carbon filters and UV lights can help neutralize the odor-causing compounds.
• Household chemicals: Cleaning products, paint fumes, and air fresheners themselves can emit strong odors. Carbon filters are particularly good at adsorbing these synthetic chemicals.

Odors That Are Harder to Eliminate

While air purifiers are powerful tools, they’re not magic. Some odors are more stubborn and may require additional steps:

• Persistent organic odors: If a smell has seeped into carpets, upholstery, or walls (like old cigarette smoke or pet urine), an air purifier alone won’t fix it. You’ll need to clean or replace the affected materials first. The purifier can help prevent the odor from lingering in the air, but it can’t pull it out of fabric.
• Strong chemical spills: If you’ve spilled gasoline, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals, an air purifier may help reduce airborne fumes, but it’s not a substitute for proper ventilation and cleanup. In such cases, open windows and evacuate the area if necessary.
• Body odor: While air purifiers can reduce airborne bacteria and sweat particles, they won’t eliminate body odor if the source (like unwashed clothes or bedding) remains. Regular laundry and personal hygiene are still essential.

Think of an air purifier as part of a team. It’s great at handling airborne odors, but it works best when combined with good cleaning habits, proper ventilation, and source control.

What to Look for in an Air Purifier for Odor Removal

If you’re serious about eliminating smells, not all air purifiers will do the job. Here’s what to prioritize when shopping for one focused on odor control.

Activated Carbon Filter: The Key to Odor Elimination

The most important feature for odor removal is a high-quality activated carbon filter. Look for models that specify the amount of carbon used—measured in pounds or grams. More carbon generally means better and longer-lasting odor adsorption. For example, a purifier with 2–3 pounds of activated carbon will outperform one with just a thin carbon mesh.

Some brands use “carbon-infused” filters, which sound impressive but often contain very little actual carbon. Always check the specs. A true activated carbon filter should be thick, dense, and replaceable.

Filter Replacement and Maintenance

Even the best carbon filter will eventually become saturated. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the carbon filter every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and odor levels. If you have pets, smoke indoors, or cook frequently, you may need to replace it more often.

Tip: Keep a calendar reminder or sign up for filter subscription services from brands like Levoit or Winix. This ensures you don’t forget to swap out the filter when it’s no longer effective.

Room Size and CADR Rating

Make sure the purifier is sized correctly for your space. Check the manufacturer’s recommended room size and look at the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR)—a measure of how quickly the purifier can deliver clean air. For odor removal, focus on the CADR for smoke or gases, as these ratings reflect performance against smaller, odor-causing particles.

For example, a purifier with a smoke CADR of 250 is better at removing odor particles than one with a CADR of 100. If you have a 300-square-foot living room, choose a model rated for at least that size—preferably larger, so it can run on a lower, quieter setting.

Additional Features That Help

• Multiple fan speeds: Higher speeds remove odors faster, but lower speeds are quieter for nighttime use.
• Auto mode: Sensors detect air quality and adjust fan speed automatically—great for maintaining fresh air without constant monitoring.
• Washable pre-filters: These save money and reduce waste by allowing you to clean and reuse the first layer of filtration.
• Quiet operation: Look for models under 50 decibels on low settings so you can run them while sleeping or working.

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

Let’s look at a few real-world scenarios to see how air purifiers perform in everyday life.

Example 1: Cooking Odors in a Small Apartment

Sarah lives in a 600-square-foot studio apartment and loves cooking ethnic dishes with strong spices. After making curry, the smell would linger for days, even with windows open. She bought a mid-range air purifier with a HEPA and carbon filter. Within two hours of running it on high, the curry smell was almost gone. Now she runs it during and after cooking as a habit. “It’s like having an invisible kitchen exhaust fan,” she says.

Example 2: Pet Odor in a Multi-Level Home

Mike has two large dogs and a basement that tends to smell musty. He placed a purifier with a 3-pound carbon filter in the basement and another in the living room. After a month, the musty dog smell decreased significantly. However, he still needs to wash the dogs’ bedding weekly and vacuum frequently. The purifier handles the airborne part, but surface cleaning is still necessary.

Example 3: Smoke Odor After a Small Kitchen Fire

After a toaster malfunction caused a small fire, Lisa’s kitchen smelled like burnt plastic for weeks. She used an air purifier with a strong carbon filter and opened windows daily. The smell faded within a week, but it took professional cleaning of the walls and cabinets to fully eliminate it. The purifier helped, but it couldn’t remove the odor embedded in surfaces.

These examples show that air purifiers are most effective when used proactively and in combination with good cleaning practices. They’re not a cure-all, but they’re a powerful tool in your odor-fighting arsenal.

Tips to Maximize Odor Removal with Your Air Purifier

Even the best air purifier won’t perform well if it’s not used correctly. Here are some practical tips to get the most out of your device.

Run It Continuously (But Smartly)

For ongoing odor control, run your purifier 24/7 on a low or auto setting. This keeps the air constantly filtered and prevents smells from building up. If you only run it occasionally, odors will return quickly.

Place It Strategically

Position the purifier in the room where the odor is strongest. For cooking smells, place it in the kitchen. For pet odors, keep it near the pet’s favorite spot. Avoid placing it behind furniture or in corners where airflow is restricted.

Close Windows and Doors

For best results, run the purifier in a closed room. This prevents outdoor pollutants and odors from entering and allows the unit to focus on cleaning the indoor air efficiently.

Clean the Pre-Filter Regularly

Most purifiers have a washable pre-filter that catches large particles. Clean it every 2–4 weeks to maintain optimal airflow and prevent clogging.

Combine with Source Control

Don’t rely solely on the purifier. Wash pet bedding, clean litter boxes daily, use exhaust fans while cooking, and store garbage in sealed bins. The purifier handles what’s in the air—you handle what’s on the surfaces.

Use During and After Odor Events

Turn on the purifier while cooking, smoking, or cleaning. The sooner you start filtering, the less time odors have to spread and settle.

Air Purifier Comparison: Odor Removal Performance

To help you choose the right model, here’s a comparison of popular air purifiers and their effectiveness against odors. All models listed include both HEPA and activated carbon filters.

Model	Carbon Filter Weight	Room Size	Smoke CADR	Best For
Levoit Core 400S	1.8 lbs	400 sq ft	240	Cooking, pet odors
Winix 5500-2	1.2 lbs	360 sq ft	232	Smoke, general odors
Blueair Blue Pure 211+	1.5 lbs (washable fabric pre-filter + carbon)	540 sq ft	350	Large spaces, strong odors
Austin Air HealthMate HM400	15 lbs (medical-grade carbon)	750 sq ft	300	Severe odors, chemical sensitivity
Honeywell HPA300	1.0 lb	465 sq ft	300	Allergens and moderate odors

As you can see, the Austin Air HealthMate stands out for heavy-duty odor removal due to its massive carbon filter. It’s ideal for people with chemical sensitivities or severe odor issues. The Blueair 211+ offers excellent performance for its size and is great for open-concept living areas. For most households, the Levoit Core 400S or Winix 5500-2 provide a solid balance of performance, price, and noise level.

Final Thoughts: Are Air Purifiers Worth It for Odor Control?

So, do air purifiers get rid of smell and odors? The answer is a resounding yes—but with caveats. They are highly effective at removing airborne odors caused by cooking, pets, smoke, and chemicals, especially when equipped with a robust activated carbon filter. However, they work best as part of a comprehensive approach that includes cleaning, ventilation, and source control.

I’ve seen firsthand how a good air purifier can transform a smelly home into a fresh, breathable space. It won’t replace your vacuum or your dish soap, but it can make a noticeable difference in how your home smells—and feels. If you’re tired of masking odors with sprays and candles, investing in a quality air purifier is a smart, long-term solution.

Just remember: not all purifiers are equal. Look for one with a substantial carbon filter, the right size for your room, and a good CADR rating. Maintain it regularly, and use it consistently. With the right model and habits, you can finally say goodbye to lingering smells and hello to truly clean air.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do air purifiers get rid of smell and odors?

Yes, many air purifiers are effective at reducing unwanted smells and odors, especially those equipped with activated carbon filters. These filters absorb and neutralize odor molecules from sources like cooking, pets, or smoke.

How do air purifiers remove odors from the air?

Air purifiers use filters like HEPA and activated carbon to capture odor-causing particles and gases. While HEPA filters trap particles, activated carbon is specifically designed to absorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other smelly molecules.

Can an air purifier eliminate cigarette smoke smell?

Yes, air purifiers with both HEPA and activated carbon filters can significantly reduce cigarette smoke odor. The carbon filter absorbs the smoke smell, while the HEPA filter captures smoke particles and residue.

Will an air purifier help with pet odors?

Absolutely—air purifiers can help reduce pet odors by capturing dander, fur, and odor molecules in the air. Models with strong carbon filters are especially effective at neutralizing lingering pet smells.

Do air purifiers work on cooking smells?

Yes, air purifiers can help minimize cooking odors, particularly those with activated carbon filters. They absorb grease particles and odor molecules released during frying, grilling, or sautéing.

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

The time varies based on room size, odor strength, and purifier power, but noticeable improvement often occurs within a few hours. For persistent odors, continuous operation ensures the best results.