When sour odors hang around indoors, remove sour odor indoors almost always ties back to something damp, dirty, or spoiled. Air fresheners might mask a sour smell for a while, but the real answer is to remove the stinky source and clean up the lingering odor. Start by sniffing carefully and determining where the sour scent is strongest. Laundry that doesn’t get completely dry, garbage bins that smell of old food and gunk, and drains with a sticky residue are common sources. The HVAC system can spread sour smells too if it’s been running for a while with a dirty filter or mold in the drip pan.

How to Remove Dishwasher Residue for Clear, Spot-Free Dishes

Once you’ve figured out where the smell is coming from, it should be easy to solve. Run an empty hot wash with vinegar, scrub trash cans and drains, and sanitize the fridge with a disinfectant wipe. Set out bowls of activated charcoal or baking soda to absorb lingering odors and put fresh lemon slices or cinnamon sticks in the stove to simmer for a natural fragrance. You can also use a dehumidifier or vaporizer to pull moisture out of the air and help your home feel more comfortable.