If you were to craft a list of the worst smells that linger forever, burnt popcorn would probably be right near the top. It just never seems to go away. So how do you get rid of a burnt popcorn smell?
Don’t fret! It’s easy to do with some simple household items.
You’ll find a list of 4 simple yet effective methods below to try next time you leave that popcorn bag in the microwave just a little bit too long (or forget about it completely).
Check our article on how to avoid burning your popcorn.
How Do You Mask the Smell of Burnt Popcorn?
You can mask the smell of burnt popcorn by covering it with something that smells stronger, such as vanilla, dryer sheets, or candles (there are step-by-step methods below).
These scents can overpower the burnt smell. That being said…your best bet to rid yourself of the offending smell is to combine some steps below and allow the methods to work together to attack the smell head-on.
Why Does a Burnt Popcorn Smell Linger?
Microwave popcorn has quite a distinctive smell thanks to the artificial flavorings and coatings the manufacturers use to create that buttery flavor. Each brand and flavor is unique, but most of them use the same types of basic additives.
When these additives are burnt, it creates a terrible, lingering odor because of those artificial compounds burning, not the popcorn itself.
Are Burnt Popcorn Fumes Harmful?
Yes and no. The fumes from burning popcorn are harmful due to their artificial nature. More specifically, a chemical compound called diacetyl creates a ‘buttery’ flavor.
However, the small amounts that most people would inhale in a domestic setting are low enough that they won’t likely cause harm. The only real concern regarding diacetyl inhalation exists for workers in plants, where they inhale large amounts of the compound.
How Do You Get Popcorn Smoke Out of Your House?
The best way to remove smoke from your home is to maximize your airflow. Direct the smoke and fumes towards an open door or window. Once it has dissipated, you can tackle the remaining odor (if any).
As far as the smell, burnt popcorn can be particularly tricky, as it seems to cling to everything and has strong staying power. You’ll find four methods below that get the job done without much effort or hassle.
Method #1: Air Circulation
When in doubt, air it out. This philosophy applies to any unpleasant odor that may assault your kitchen’s air (and your nose). Even the acrid smell of burnt popcorn can be diluted with good airflow.
Here are a few tips:
That should take care of the smoke and at least a majority of the smell.
Even better, though? Combine this method with another (or all) below to kick that smell to the curb!
Method #2: Clean the Microwave
This may sound obvious, but cleaning the microwave is a good bet when trying to figure out how to get rid of a burnt popcorn smell. You can also mask it, but if you don’t clean it, that odor most likely won’t stay away. Using lemon juice and/or vinegar will be most effective for a smell such as brick-of-charcoal popcorn.
Using Lemon Juice
To use lemon juice to clean your microwave, you should steam it so the smell can cling to the inner surfaces with the most coverage.
Here are the steps to do so:
Don’t open the door yet! Allow it to sit for five minutes for maximum steam coverage. Remove the bowl from the microwave and use a wet cloth to wipe the inside surfaces. Make sure you remove any stuck-on food, as the popcorn odor can linger there. Wipe the inside surfaces with a dry cloth to remove the moisture.
This method should leave a nice citrus scent in your microwave. You could also use this method with oranges instead of lemons for a different scent.
Using Vinegar
This vinegar cleaning method is quite similar to the lemon juice method, although it won’t leave that sweet citrus aroma. If you’re not keen on the smell of vinegar, you could try this method and follow it up with the lemon one.
Here are the steps to clean your microwave with vinegar:
Vinegar is an effective cleaning agent and deodorizer, so this should send that charred popcorn smell packing.
That being said, you may be left with a vinegar scent. If it doesn’t bother you, it should dissipate within a couple of days. As mentioned above, you could follow this with the lemon cleaning method to leave your microwave with a pleasant lemony scent.
Method #3: Absorb the Smell
If cleaning isn’t cutting it, you can try absorbing the smell. Like when dealing with stains, sometimes absorbing bad smells can lead to easier cleaning and quicker dissipation.
Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is a magnificent odor absorber and a handy tool for dealing with lingering odors. Even if you’ve used other methods and the smell isn’t too bad anymore, this is so easy it’s a no-brainer.
Here’s what to do:
That’s it. Easy, right?
This method can and should be used for any odors you need to deal with. It can even prevent odors too. Try sticking an open container of baking soda in your fridge to prevent odors from getting out of control there.
Using Coffee
When it comes to strong scents, coffee is high on the list. Coffee grounds also are highly absorbent, so this method can be effective when trying to mask burnt popcorn.
Here’s how to do it:
That’s it. The smell should be gone at this point, although you can combine this with other methods to increase the effectiveness even higher if you’ve got a particularly obscene odor (like burnt popcorn).
Method #4: Mask the Smell
If you’ve tried everything and the smell won’t quit, try masking the odor with something more pleasant, such as vanilla or a scented candle.
Over time, the burnt popcorn smell will dissipate, but this will buy you some time, so you don’t have to smell it as strongly every day until it’s gone.
Vanilla
This is more of a method to help the smell of your entire kitchen, not necessarily just your microwave, but it’s effective nonetheless.
Here’s how:
Alternatively, you could use the stove:
This is another one of those methods that can be used for any (and all) odors. It’s a very effective way to mask odors without much time and effort.
Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets are not just great for preventing static cling but also effective deodorizers! Simply tape dryer sheets over your microwave vents when it’s not in use to pull odors out of the hard-to-reach areas.
Be sure to remove them when you use the microwave and replace them when you’re done.
Keep at it for a few days; that lingering smell should be on its way out.
Candles
Like vanilla, this is a method for scenting your entire kitchen, not just your microwave.
Simply choose a smell that you enjoy and keep it lit when you’re in (or near) the kitchen. That aroma should mask any lingering popcorn odor until it fully dissipates.
FAQs Get Rid of Burnt Popcorn Smell
How can I get rid of a burnt popcorn smell in my house?
Start by opening windows and allowing fresh air to circulate. You can also use odor-absorbing methods such as baking soda, vinegar, or citrus-based cleaners to eliminate the smell.
What should I do immediately after burning popcorn to minimize the smell?
Turn off the stove or microwave immediately to prevent further burning. Remove the burnt popcorn from the heat source and discard it in a sealed bag. Ventilate the area by opening windows and turning on fans.
How can I remove the burnt popcorn smell from the microwave?
Wipe the interior of the microwave with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. Alternatively, you can heat a bowl of water with lemon slices or a few tablespoons of baking soda to absorb the odor. Wipe down the interior again with a clean cloth.
How do I remove the burnt popcorn smell from the kitchen or living area?
Place bowls filled with vinegar, coffee grounds, or baking soda around the affected area. These substances can help absorb the odor. Additionally, using air purifiers or odor-neutralizing sprays can be helpful.
Are there any natural remedies to eliminate the burnt popcorn smell?
Yes, you can try simmering a pot of water with cinnamon sticks, cloves, or citrus peels. The natural aromas can help mask the burnt odor. Alternatively, using essential oils in a diffuser can also freshen the air.
How can I remove the burnt popcorn smell from fabric or upholstery?
Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the affected fabric or upholstery. Let it sit for a few hours to absorb the odor, then vacuum it up. For stubborn smells, you can also try using fabric fresheners or enzymatic cleaners designed for odor removal.
What if the burnt popcorn smell lingers in the house?
If the odor persists, you may need to deep clean surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, and floors, with a mixture of vinegar and water or specialized odor-eliminating cleaners. Consider professional cleaning services for severe cases.
How can I prevent burnt popcorn smells in the future?
Follow the recommended cooking times and settings for popcorn. Stay near the microwave or stovetop while popping to prevent burning. Use proper ventilation, such as range hoods or open windows, when cooking popcorn.
Can scented candles or air fresheners help eliminate the burnt popcorn smell?
While scented candles and air fresheners can temporarily mask the smell, they may not completely eliminate it. It’s best to focus on removing the odor at its source through proper cleaning and ventilation techniques.
How long does it usually take for the burnt popcorn smell to dissipate?
The time it takes for the burnt popcorn smell to go away depends on various factors such as the severity of the burning, the size of the space, and the methods used to remove the odor. Typically, it can take a few hours to a few days for the smell to fully dissipate.
You Can Get Rid of a Burnt Popcorn Smell! 💭
What if the odor you’re dealing with is particularly pungent? Your best bet is to use a combination of methods. For example, you could clean with vinegar, then lemon, set up some air circulation, and leave a box of baking soda overnight while scenting the kitchen with vanilla.
Grab one (or a few) of the methods above and run with it. Try a couple of them and see which you prefer best. That lingering popcorn smell doesn’t stand a chance with just a few simple steps.
What if the odor you’re dealing with is particularly pungent? Your best bet is to use a combination of methods. For example, you could clean with vinegar, then lemon, set up some air circulation, and leave a box of baking soda overnight while scenting the kitchen with vanilla.
Grab one (or a few) of the methods above and run with it. Try a couple of them and see which you prefer best. That lingering popcorn smell doesn’t stand a chance with just a few simple steps.
