How to Get Rid of Weed Smell

As a cannabis consumer, there may come a time when you need to remove the smell of weed. Survey results reveal that half of Americans crinkle their noses upon smelling cannabis in public, with many deeming it "problematic." You might be seen as disrespectful if you leave a trail of terpenes everywhere you smoke, store, or transport your nugs.

Lingering odors can stick around long after consuming or storing products, which isn't ideal if anyone that is disapproving of cannabis visits your home unexpectedly. Fortunately, cannabis consumption etiquette, like knowing how to get rid of weed smell, is easy to master.

What Causes Weed Smells? 

The cannabis plant contains more than 200 fragrant molecules known as terpenes that can have numerous medicinal characteristics, including pain relief and relaxation. Common cannabis terpenes include myrcene (earthy-musky), limonene (citrusy), pinene (grassy-piney), and terpinolene (floral-woody).¹

Researchers recently discovered that cannabis’ “skunky” sulfurous compounds may also have therapeutic benefits, signifying the role that smell plays in cannabis’ effects.¹ Regardless of the terpenes profile of your chosen cultivar, it may be worth having conscious habits to get rid of weed smells. 

The Inconvenience(s) Associated with Weed Smell

Numerous implications can crop up if you consume cannabis carelessly.  For example, home-growing and secondhand smoke pollution could upset your neighbors, potentially leading to disagreements. 

You could even face legal disputes for public smoking in the 39 legal cannabis states that strictly forbid it. There's also the risk of losing your job (even if you smoked after hours) or tenancy termination if your landlord smells stubborn odors, such as stale smoke. 

How to Get Rid of Weed Smell: Effective Strategies

Cutting back or abstaining from cannabis consumption is not necessary to get rid of weed smells. With some simple tips, you can eliminate airborne odors fast. 

Proactive Measures

Put your mind at ease before a smoke session with these proactive measures:

• Sufficient Ventilation - Impurities contained in smoke can contaminate the air in poorly ventilated spaces. Try pointing a fan in the direction of an open window or door to force smoke clouds outside and encourage fresh air circulation. 
• Mindful Exhalation - If you're smoking cannabis, be smart about it. Invest in air purifier technology, exhale near an open window, or just blow it into a Smoke Trap device! 
• Smokeless Products - Experiment with cannabis-infused oils, edibles, or vaporizers to sidestep funky smells in the first place. 

Homemade Smell Disguisers

The following homemade deodorizing solutions can be prepared before you light up:

• Citrus Sprays: Lemons, limes, oranges, and other types of citrus fruits are crammed with natural acids that can neutralize odors and even alleviate stress.² Make your own chemical-free air freshener by mixing freshly squeezed citrus juice with water in a spray bottle and spritz throughout odor-ridden spaces as needed. 
• Essential Oil Elixir: Lemongrass, grapefruit, bergamot, cedarwood, and clove essential oils (EOs) are worth stocking up on since they contain natural odor-fighting compounds. Get rid of weed smell quickly by diluting a few drops of your preferred EO in a water spray bottle. If it contains antibacterial and antimicrobial compounds, it may camouflage unwanted odors and fight off pathogens.
• Baking Soda: Baking soda is an alkaline substance that might help neutralize acidic odors by targeting specific molecules responsible for the stench. Scatter uncovered bowls in the area(s) where you're trying to get rid of weed smell for the best results.
• Activated Charcoal: The large surface area of this substance features microscopic pores that can trap and absorb volatile chemical compounds, such as terpenes. Seal loose pieces in a mesh bag before hanging it from a hook. Alternatively, opt for standard sachets. 

Swift Scent-busting Tools

Other solutions may offer convenience when you're in a rush to remove the smell of weed:

• Air Purifiers: Portable air purifiers can remove allergens, smoke, and mold, making them a multipurpose investment. Seek products with carbon filters to capture even smaller particles. 
• PotPourri or Incense: Wafting incense sticks is an easy way to cover weed smells. Although it won't eliminate the smell, having a bowl of potpourri handy can distract attention from overpowering odors. 

• On-the-Go Solutions: Transportable deodorizers can fit comfortably in a bag or car. You can remove weed smells in your car with activated charcoal sachets or odor-eliminating sprays. Some sprays work by chemically altering airborne particles, whereas others simply mask odors. 

Preventing Weed Smells Before They Transpire

Tackle uninvited aromas from the get-go with the following tips:

Select Cannabis Strains Wisely

The uniqueness of each strain’s terpene profile determines its aromatic and therapeutic intensity. Mildly fragrant strains are your best bet if you're concerned about attracting unwanted attention.

Dabble in Different Consumption Methods

Discreet smoking alternatives emit fewer or no odors without compromising cannabis’ long-lasting, fast-acting effects. Some recommended consumption tools include vaporizers, edibles, drinks, capsules, and tinctures. 

Introduce Various Types of Ventilation

If you cannot smoke outdoors, encourage adequate airflow with indoor ventilation instead. You can accomplish this by opening windows or installing window-facing carbon filter fans.

Proper Cannabis Storage

Pungent strains are more likely to release a stench. The slightest container leak, bag tear, or crack beneath the door can result in potent smells escaping. Prevent the issue by sealing the bottom of a door with a draft stopper. It's also recommended to store freshly grown or bought weed inside airtight containers (like Mason jars) to preserve plant freshness. 

How to Get Rid of Weed Smell with Products

1. Smoke Buddy Personal Air Filter

Price: $ - $$

The highly sought-after Smoke Buddy is designed to transform exhaled particles and gasses into odorless air with activated carbon technology. If the Smoke Buddy is out of your price range, substitute with HEPA filters, which remove 99.7% of airborne particles (no bigger than 0.3 microns). 

2. Activated Carbon Air Filters

Price: $$ - $$$

Intricately crafted with millions of microscopic carbon pores that improve overall air quality, activated carbon air filters help eradicate allergens, dust, and pollutants. These health-focused air filters are ideal for filtering unwanted airborne contaminants that might otherwise cause respiratory issues. 

3. Odor-Eliminating Candles and Sprays

Price: $ - $$

In addition to masking unwanted smells, odor-banishing candles and sprays infuse the air with pleasant fragrances that could instill feelings of calmness. For example, natural essential oils (EOs) containing terpenes like pinene and caryophyllene are scientifically proven to ease stress and enhance mood, so opt for products containing these EOs. 

4. Charcoal Filters

Price: $ - $$

Activated charcoal filters are highly porous materials that absorb gas and liquid molecules contained in cannabis (and tobacco) smoke. When air infiltrates the filter surface, pollutant molecules get trapped via ‘absorption’, sticking to the pore surface. Place these charcoal filters in strategic locations, like closets, near smoking areas, or cars, to trap and balance out cannabis smells.

5. Car Air Fresheners

Price: $ - $$

Car odor eliminators contain enzymes and chemicals that eat odorous bacteria. They work by infiltrating every tiny particle of the vehicle interior. You can also use odor-absorbing gels made with plant-based ingredients like citrus, eucalyptus, and lavender.

Weed Smell FAQs

How long does it take for weed to leave a smell?

Consumption and storage greatly impact the overall smell of a property where cannabis is/was present. Poorly sealed flower stored inside low-ventilation areas may release a powerful scent within minutes, particularly if it's a high-quality, potent cultivar. The longer you smoke flower or vape carts, the longer the smell lasts. 

How long does the smell of weed last in a room?

Stubborn cannabis smells usually remain for 3-5 hours, depending on the environment and airflow. If you enjoy an occasional joint indoors, out the window, or in the garden, the smell can travel inside. Consequently, odors can get trapped inside the fibers on your clothes and furniture for 12-24 hours (or longer in poorly ventilated spaces). 

Why does my house smell like weed at night?

Phantosmia is a medical condition that causes people to detect mysterious, non-existent smells. You might not be imagining it, though. Smoke rises, so if you're living above a property where someone is smoking it (or growing it), you'll need to figure out how to get rid of weed smell. Cannabis smells may persist if you previously smoked that day or if you store weed improperly. Some types of mold also smell similar to cannabis. 

Can the police pull me over if they smell weed? 

Consume cautiously (even in legal states) to prevent run-ins with the law. Police officers in specific jurisdictions — except states like Arizona, California, Delaware, Montana, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Virginia, and Washington D.C — can legally perform warrant-free searches if your vehicle or property smells suspicious. Never smoke before or while operating a motor vehicle or heavy equipment.

Can you eliminate the smell of growing weed? 

Approximately 4-5 weeks before harvest, during flowering, cannabis plants emit their strongest aroma. Plus, potent smells can persist for 3–4 weeks if your nugs are undergoing subsequent processing.

References

1. Seltenrich N. Odor Control in the Cannabis Industry: Lessons from the New Kid on the Block. Environ Health Perspect. 2022;130(6):62001. doi:10.1289/EHP11449 ↩︎
2. Hoenen M, Müller K, Pause BM, Lübke KT. Fancy Citrus, Feel Good: Positive Judgment of Citrus Odor, but Not the Odor Itself, Is Associated with Elevated Mood during Experienced Helplessness. Frontiers in Psychology. 2016;7. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2016.00074 ↩︎

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.