Fresh Air and Expert Tips from Riverstone Apartmentscooking-food-smell-taste

Cooking in your Riverstone apartment is part of what makes it feel like home, whether you’re searing a steak or baking banana bread. But with the joys of home-cooked meals come lingering cooking odors that can stick around far longer than your appetite.

If you’ve ever come home to last night’s dinner still in the air, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to manage cooking smells—even in cozy apartment spaces like ours. From boosting airflow to using natural odor absorbers, we’ve compiled smart, renter-friendly tips to keep your kitchen (and living room) smelling fresh.

Let’s dive into fresh-air strategies that work perfectly in small spaces like the modern apartments at Riverstone in Troy, NY.

Why Cooking Smells Linger in Apartments

Smells from sautéing garlic, spices, or fried foods can easily spread in smaller homes, especially those with open floor plans like many of Riverstone’s apartments. Odors often settle into fabrics, carpets, and furniture, making them tough to eliminate without a plan.

Strong scents are usually caused by:

  • High-heat cooking methods (frying, roasting)
  • Aromatic ingredients (onions, garlic, spices)
  • Poor or insufficient airflow
    Understanding these factors is the first step toward fresher living.

Step 1: Maximize Your Ventilation

Ventilation is your first and best defense. Here’s how to make it work in your Riverstone apartment:

  • Use Your Exhaust Fan
    Turn it on while cooking and leave it running for 10–15 minutes after.
  • Open Windows & Doors
    Create a cross-breeze during and after meals.
  • Use a Fan
    A small tabletop or box fan pointed out a window can pull odors out fast.
  • Keep Interior Doors Open
    Promote airflow throughout your space.

Bonus Tip: An air purifier with a HEPA and activated carbon filter can work wonders in open-concept living areas.

Step 2: Use Natural Odor Absorbers

Forget synthetic sprays—these natural solutions are budget-friendly and effective:

  • Baking Soda: Place a few open containers in the kitchen or fridge.
  • Vinegar: Set out a bowl while cooking to neutralize odors.
  • Coffee Grounds: Absorb and replace odors with a cozy coffee scent.
  • Activated Charcoal: A powerful odor eliminator—perfect for cabinets or corners.

Combine these with regular cleaning (like wiping counters with vinegar and water) to reset your space after meals.

Step 3: Add a Fresh Scent Naturally

Layer in pleasant aromas using essential oils or simmer pots:

  • Diffuse Essential Oils
    Lemon, lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus are ideal for refreshing the air.
  • Simmer a Stovetop Potpourri
    Try water with lemon peels, cinnamon sticks, and cloves for a quick scent reset.
  • DIY Room Spray
    Mix water and a few drops of essential oil in a spray bottle for a custom air freshener.

Choose naturally antibacterial oils to help cleanse the air as well as scent it.

Step 4: Don’t Skip the Deep Clean

Odors stick to soft surfaces and hidden corners. Make a habit of cleaning:

  • Stove hoods and filters
  • Inside your microwave and oven
  • Curtains, rugs, and couch cushions
  • Garbage bins and sink drains

This maintenance goes a long way toward keeping your apartment fresh year-round.

Living Fresh at Riverstone Apartments
Apartment living doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or air quality. At Riverstone, our spacious layouts, modern appliances, and large windows give you the perfect foundation for a clean and cozy home environment. With a few simple strategies, you can enjoy every meal you make without the lingering reminders.

Want a fresh start in a thoughtfully designed apartment?
Contact Riverstone Apartments today to schedule a tour and lease your new home in Troy, NY. Fresh air, modern amenities, and a vibrant community await you!