Best Odor Eliminators for Every Space: Tested and Reviewed

Odors

Say goodbye to stubborn smells with these powerful sprays, gels, and fresheners.

Even the cleanest homes can sometimes struggle with unwanted odors. From musty towels and sweaty gym clothes to cooking smells or overflowing trash bins, lingering scents can make your space feel less fresh. That’s where the best odor eliminators come in.

Unlike regular air fresheners that simply mask odors with fragrance, odor eliminators are designed to neutralize odor molecules, absorb smells, and in some cases, kill odor-causing bacteria. Whether it’s your kitchen, bathroom, car, or closet, there’s a product built for every need.

Below are our top picks for the best odor removers, tested for real-life performance in different environments.


1. Best Overall: Clorox Disinfecting Mist

  • AEROSOL FREE: Clorox Disinfecting Mist features aerosol free packaging that requires no propellants and a formula that’s…
  • FAMILY FRIENDLY: Made with plant based active ingredient, free from fragrances and dyes, and safe around kids, pets and …
  • KILLS 99.9% OF VIRUSES* AND BACTERIA**: Kills 99.9% of viruses* and bacteria**, including the COVID 19 virus***, and rem…

Why we love it:

  • Kills bacteria and viruses
  • Works on both hard and soft surfaces
  • Fine mist covers evenly without soaking

Things to note:

  • Not safe for marble or copper surfaces
  • Rinse food-contact areas after use

Clorox’s Disinfecting Mist is more than just a freshener—it’s a powerful odor eliminator and sanitizer. It works on surfaces like upholstery, mattresses, and plush toys in just minutes while leaving behind a light, clean scent. Perfect for tackling odors in high-bacteria zones like bathrooms, kitchens, and pet areas.


2. Best Budget Pick: Febreze Odor-Fighting Air Freshener

  • 1. FIGHTS AIR ODORS: This Febreze Air Freshener Spray fights air odors without just masking, leaving behind a light, fre…
  • 2. LINEN & SKY SCENT: Bring the outdoors in with the fresh-off-the-clothesline scent of Linen & Sky
  • 3. EASY TO USE: Hold upright and spray in a sweeping motion throughout your house

Why we love it:

  • Neutralizes odors quickly
  • Affordable and effective
  • Long-lasting fine mist

Things to note:

  • Overspray may make floors slippery

A household favorite, Febreze Air Mist offers great performance at a low price. It surrounds odor molecules to neutralize them, making it ideal for cooking smells, smoke, and stale air. We especially like the new formula that disperses a finer mist, keeping rooms fresher for longer.


3. Best for Bathroom Odors: Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Spray

  • Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray leaves your bathroom smelling fresh and clean. Simply spray the water in the bowl …
  • Scent: Lemon, Bergamot and Lemongrass. Freshens bathroom odors before it begins so you can leave the porcelain throne sm…
  • How It Works: Shake well. Spritz 3-5 sprays into the toilet bowl on the water’s surface. Proceed to do your thing. Poo-P…

Why we love it:

  • Made with natural essential oils
  • Traps odors before they spread
  • Compact and travel-friendly

Things to note:

  • Must be sprayed before use

If you want to stop bathroom odors before they start, Poo-Pourri is still the gold standard. A quick spritz on the water surface creates a barrier that locks smells in the bowl. It comes in multiple scents like citrus, jasmine, and bergamot—without harsh chemicals like parabens or phthalates.


4. Best for Cars: Febreze Car Air Freshener Clips

  • Stay fresh with up to 40 days of consistent scent with Febreze Car Vent Clips (on low)
  • Delivers even scent throughout your car with patented Steady Release Technology
  • Enhances every ride with a freshness that fights car odors… keeping your carpool smelling carcool

Why we love it:

  • Clips easily onto air vents
  • Adjustable scent strength
  • Mess-free design

Things to note:

  • Initial scent can be strong
  • Won’t remove deep-set fabric odors

Forget old-fashioned cardboard trees—Febreze Car Clips use your vehicle’s ventilation to distribute a fresh scent. They’re easy to use, last for weeks, and are great for eliminating food, smoke, and pet odors on the go.


5. Best Gel Option: Fresh Wave Odor Removing Gel

  • Clear the air and absorb ongoing odors with Fresh Wave Gel. The Gel evaporates as it erases odors in your home.
  • A 7 oz Gel typically lasts about 15-30 days, depending on the strength of the odors. When you run low, you can refresh y…
  • We never use parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or harsh chemicals in our products, making them safer than traditional air …

Why we love it:

  • Continuous odor control
  • Plant-based and non-toxic
  • Long-lasting freshness

Things to note:

  • Larger rooms may need multiple jars

For a low-maintenance solution, Fresh Wave Gel works continuously as it evaporates, making it great for closets, bathrooms, or small spaces. Made with natural, plant-based ingredients and EPA Safer Choice-certified, it’s a safe and eco-friendly choice. Each jar can last up to 60 days in rooms up to 200 sq. ft.


Final Thoughts

From sprays and mists to gels and car clips, the right odor eliminator can make all the difference in keeping your home or car fresh. If you’re looking for a strong disinfecting option, go with Clorox Mist. For budget-friendly freshness, Febreze Air Mist is unbeatable. And if you prefer a natural, continuous solution, Fresh Wave Gel is a reliable choice.

Keep your spaces fresh, clean, and odor-free—because a good-smelling home always feels more welcoming.