How to banish fried fish odours: Tried-and-true solutions
While cooking in the kitchen, even with a good extractor fan, various smells can spread throughout the apartment. The aroma of baked dishes is welcome, but the smell of fried fish not necessarily so. Fortunately, there are proven ways to tackle this.
In small apartments, where the kitchen is connected to the living room, and the range hood doesn't always work as it should, the smell of fish can be a real nuisance. There's often no way to thoroughly ventilate, especially when windows are only on one side of the building. In such situations, opening the door to the hallway isn't always comfortable. Although lighting a candle can help, sometimes it's not enough.
The terrible smell of fried fish: How to remedy it?
If you're lucky enough to have a good range hood, just turn it up to full power while frying fish. For those who don't have such equipment, opening the windows may be the only solution. Additionally, placing a few slices of potato or apple on the pan with the fish can help absorb the unpleasant odour. Herbal spices such as parsley or dill can also be helpful.
Sometimes, however, it's better to use traditional methods when frying fish. Boil water and add a few tablespoons of vinegar and a handful of cloves. The steam rising from this mixture will quickly absorb unwanted odours. Freshly brewed coffee can also help neutralize aromas. Another effective way to eliminate the smell of fish is using baking soda. Just sprinkle it on a plate and place it near the stove. Baking soda acts as a natural odour absorber, neutralizing unpleasant aromas. You can also prepare a solution of soda and water to wipe countertops and other surfaces in the kitchen to remove leftover smells.
Let's not forget about citrus! Peels from lemons or oranges can be thrown into boiling water, which will not only help neutralize odours but also bring a fresh, citrus aroma to the kitchen. It's a simple and natural way to refresh the air after intense frying.
The smell of fish doesn't disappear suddenly
After spending a long time in the apartment, you may stop noticing the smell of fried fish, but that doesn't mean it's gone. To make sure everything is back to normal, step outside for a moment. After eating, leave the vinegar and clove mixture on the counter, and suggest a walk to the family. When returning home, the fishy smell will no longer be noticeable, allowing you to enjoy the evening in a pleasant atmosphere.
Interestingly, in some cultures, bay leaves are used as a natural odour absorber. Just toss a few into boiling water to neutralize unpleasant aromas. Moreover, bay leaves have antibacterial properties, which help maintain cleanliness in the kitchen. It's a simple way to not only get rid of the smell of fried fish but also add a subtle, herbal aroma to the air.
