The trick sounds almost too simple. A single glass. Some water. Vinegar. A spoonful of salt. Yet people swear this humble mix can strip away stubborn smells and quietly reset the air in your home.

In a world crowded with synthetic fragrances and plug-in fresheners, the idea that a plain glass of vinegar, salt, and water can help tame household odors feels almost radical. The method is straightforward: fill a glass halfway with water, add two tablespoons of white vinegar and one tablespoon of salt, then stir until the crystals vanish. Set the glass in the room that feels heavy with smells—near the trash, by the litter box, or in a stuffy hallway—and simply leave it to work.

The acetic acid in vinegar helps neutralize some odor-causing molecules, while dissolved salt supports the solution’s ability to interact with airborne particles over time. You won’t get a perfumed scent, just a quieter, less intrusive background. It’s not magic, and it won’t replace cleaning, open windows, or a good fan. But as a gentle, low-cost, eco-friendly ally, that small, silent glass can make your home feel just a bit easier to breathe in.