Vomit odors can be incredibly stubborn. Whether it’s on carpet, your car seat, a favorite couch cushion, or even a child’s beloved stuffed animal, the smell tends to linger long after the mess is gone. If you’re tired of trying store-bought sprays that only mask the smell, this simple DIY recipe offers a powerful, natural solution.
In this article, you’ll learn how to eliminate vomit smells from nearly any surface using just a few affordable household ingredients. You’ll also find helpful tips and answers to common questions to ensure the odor is gone for good — not just covered up.
Why This DIY Vomit Smell Remover Works
Vomit odors are caused by organic compounds like stomach acids, bile, and partially digested food. These compounds seep into porous materials like fabric and carpet, making them hard to clean with surface sprays alone.
This DIY solution combines three powerful but gentle ingredients:
- Hydrogen peroxide breaks down organic matter and kills odor-causing bacteria.
- Baking soda neutralizes acids and absorbs lingering odors.
- Dish soap lifts greasy or protein-based residues from fibers.
Together, they make a safe, effective solution that cleans deep — not just on the surface.
Natural Vomit Odor Removal Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups hydrogen peroxide (3% solution)
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 drops liquid dish soap (unscented or mild preferred)
This solution is non-toxic, budget-friendly, and safe for most fabric, upholstery, and carpet types. Always test a small hidden spot before full application.
How to Use on Carpets, Furniture, Cars & Stuffed Animals
Step 1: Mix the Solution
In a large bowl or clean spray bottle, combine the hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap. Stir or shake gently until the baking soda dissolves fully.
Tip: Only mix what you’ll use within a few hours. This solution loses potency if stored too long due to the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide.
Step 2: Saturate the Affected Area
Pour or spray the solution directly onto the stained or smelly area. Make sure it penetrates into the fibers or fabric so it can reach the source of the odor.
- For carpets: Press down with your hand or a cloth to help the mixture soak into the padding underneath.
- For furniture: Remove any cushion covers if possible, and treat both the cover and the foam inside.
- For cars: Focus on the upholstery and seat padding. Ventilate the area during and after cleaning.
- For stuffed animals or clothing: Soak the item fully or spot-clean heavily affected areas.
Step 3: Blot to Remove Moisture
Use a clean towel or several paper towels to press down and blot the treated area. This helps lift out both the solution and the particles causing the odor.
Step 4: Repeat If Needed
If the smell remains, don’t hesitate to repeat the process once or twice. Deep-set odors may need more than one treatment, especially in carpets or car seats.
Step 5: Optional Deodorizing Finish
Once the area is mostly dry, you can sprinkle dry baking soda over the surface. Let it sit for a few hours (or overnight), then vacuum it up to pull out any final traces of odor.
Pro Cleaning Tips for Best Results
- Act quickly: The sooner you treat the vomit, the less time it has to penetrate and stain.
- Test fabrics first: Some delicate fabrics or dyes may react with hydrogen peroxide. Always spot-test in an inconspicuous area.
- Use fresh peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide degrades over time. Make sure your bottle is still active by checking the fizz when it contacts baking soda.
- Avoid soaking foam for too long: For cushions and mattresses, avoid leaving them soaked — press out excess moisture as soon as possible to prevent mildew.
- Don’t cap leftover solution tightly: If storing in a bottle for a few hours, avoid sealing tightly — pressure may build due to the active ingredients.
- Open windows when cleaning indoors: This helps dry out the area and reduces any lingering scent from the cleaning solution itself.
How to Handle Vomit Smell in Specific Items
Stuffed Animals
- Spot-clean or soak in a small tub of the cleaning mixture.
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
- Pat dry with towels and let air dry completely.
- For plush toys that can’t get wet, apply the mixture with a damp cloth and follow with baking soda to absorb odors.
Car Seats
- Remove any covers if possible and treat both the fabric and underlying foam.
- Keep car doors open to speed up drying.
- Repeat the solution twice if needed, as car padding is dense and odor tends to linger longer.
Upholstered Furniture
- Use a spray bottle for even application.
- Press solution into deep creases or folds.
- After blotting and drying, use a vacuum attachment to lift out any residual baking soda.
FAQs
Will this remove the vomit stain as well as the smell?
Yes. The combination of hydrogen peroxide and dish soap is excellent at breaking down proteins and bile in vomit. For colored stains, repeat the treatment or add a gentle fabric-safe stain remover if needed.
Can I use this on mattresses?
Yes, but avoid over-saturating the mattress. Use towels to blot excess liquid, and allow ample time to air dry. Consider using a fan or placing the mattress in sunlight if possible.
Is hydrogen peroxide safe on all fabrics?
No. It can bleach darker fabrics. Always spot-test before full use to avoid discoloration.
Can I store this mixture for future use?
It’s best used fresh. Hydrogen peroxide loses strength quickly, especially when mixed. Make a fresh batch each time for best results.
Will the vinegar work instead of hydrogen peroxide?
Vinegar can help neutralize odors but isn’t as effective at breaking down organic compounds like vomit. Hydrogen peroxide is more effective for deep odor removal.
What if the smell is still there after cleaning?
Repeat the process and allow for longer soaking or drying time. Lingering smells are often trapped in deeper padding or fibers, so multiple treatments may be necessary.
Is this method safe for pet vomit too?
Absolutely. The solution is safe for cleaning up after pets. Just ensure no residue is left on surfaces they’ll lick or chew.
Final Thoughts
Vomit smells are among the most unpleasant household odors — but you don’t have to live with them or waste money on masking sprays. With just three affordable ingredients, this natural solution penetrates deep into fabrics and carpets to break down the odor at its source.
Use it on everything from carpets and cars to clothes and toys. With the added option to sprinkle baking soda for a final deodorizing step, this method not only eliminates odor but leaves everything smelling fresh again.